After almost two years of research, I ordered a Longevity

[arandall]

Arcamm:
Glad you were able to order your machine at last. I'm sure Longevity will live up to your expectations. They have treated me very well.

[Gadget]

Welcome back Art.

[tempsho]

So have you done any welds with it yet!

[Arcamm]

I've run some test welds on AC just to make sure it works and it does just find. Of course this has turned out to be the busiest end of year I've had in 5 years (good for the bank account), so my play time has been reduced. Plus, I don't have a table yet, so I'm welding on the floor. Not so great for the knees or back. I did just buy 5 lbs of 1/8" 6013 just for practice. I've tried out the plasma cutter and wow! Is it great or what! I'm resiting the urge to chop up every piece of metal I have in the yard just because I can. I've been practicing with it, trying to get the amps to metal thickness thing down. I was having issues seeing, but I got some good coaching here about how to adjust the helmet.

Next I need a gas bottle and some tungsten. I've never TIG welded before, so I'm looking forward to that.

But first, I've got to get my groove back (bead back?). I'll practice stick on AC until I get some good beads then try DC. I've been told it's the way to go with stick.

So far, I'm very pleased with the results. The machine seems fine, we just have to get the "welder" up to speed.

[tempsho]

Did your machine have any leaks in any of the air lines?

[Nick]

Waiting for packages to get out of Linthicum is not my personal favorite.

Near year later, how goes the toy? ^_^

[tigqk]

Congrats, your going to love the machine, going to build your own stand?

[Nick]

I've still seen changing tractors on the front lawn hill.... I can only assume he's still around, just busy.

That's right, I drive by your house on road trips.