Hot Rods Lincoln SP-200 Mig Question

I have had a Lincoln SP-200 since they came out around 1980. The machine has been a very dependable and trouble free workhorse from day 1. I probably run 2-3 44 lb. spools of wire through it annually. Last week I had wire feed issues. I noticed the wire from the reel to the rollers was getting red hot after 10-15 seconds of welding. I changed the liner and same thing, I changed to a brand new gun, same thing. Nothing in the shop was changed or moved. I run my Square Wave 255, SP-150, and Pro Cut 60 off of the same shop wiring so it can't be a ground issue. Any thoughts ? Thank you

 

I would check the socket the gun plugs into and the wire from the socket in the machine for a corroded pin or a break in the Hot circuit.

Phil

 

Is something grounding the reel?

 

Sounds like the drive motor may be shorting out. Put a voltmeter on it and see if it showing some stray current. Mine died about 2 years ago but did get a DC motor from McMaster- Carr. Had to modify the mounting to make it work. I could not find a replacement for a reasonable price. Let me know if you need the part number.

 

The wire is electrically hot when the gun trigger is pulled. If it is staying electrically hot even when the trigger is off, the contactor in the machine may be sticking.

 

Hi Ken, I will check the voltage today.
The part number would be great to have on hand THANK YOU.

 

If current is running back up the wire seeking a ground (indicated by the wire getting hot), you might want to check your ground cable/clamp and where its connected inside the machine to see if it still has a good connection. Since electricity takes the path of least resistance, it sounds like your ground circuit might not be making a good path.

 

I noticed the MIG wire getting hot even without the ground clamp being connected to the work when I was feeding the wire throught the gun. It must be an internal issue.

 

Here is the info on the McMaster-Carr Drive motor. Part number 6331K67.
I have attached pictures of mine. It has been a couple of years but I don't recall a big hassle.
Had to pull the drive gear and the old base plate and put it on the new one.
Works like a champ the last 2 years. Responds to wire feed setting just like the old one.

 

Thank you Ken !

 

I put a small part on my welder cart to weld and it burned through the wire at the reel. It was fine when I moved it off the cart so the welder case is hot?