This true from welders to toothbrushes. Brand name suppliers/manufacturers, have a cheaper line (overseas) or "rejects/seconds/blemished,etc. They basically look the same but if you're aware you'll see the difference. Be Aware. All junk is NOT labeled "Made in China", although the parts could be manufactured there and ***embled locally. Look for older used stuff, might take a few extra bucks to rebuild it, then you got something.
Hell, my Miller was "Made in the USA" with a nice Chinese transformer. LOL. Great welder though. The older Millers are the Iron Duke of tough welders if you ask me, and they still bring good coin!
I agree the Lincoln Migpak 10 is awesome i bought mine new for 500 quite a few years ago, bought it before my first car. i think i was 14-15, i strength tested some of my first welds, i just wanted to break the pieces in half so i could do it again (because i didnt want anyone to see my horrible welds). well i stood on the 3/8 plate that was 2x1 foot plate, he hit the other piece about the same size, welded in a L form, on one side, him and his 200 body swinging a 10 pound sledge hammer didnt break that. I have learned alot more about welding with that mig since then. Just today had a neighbour who owns a machine and welding shop aproved my welding on the frame i just z'd and what was not easy for me, because it was on the floor, laying on my side and welding horizontal, none of was my specialty. I have to weld in my new crossmember in the next few days and its 1/4 inch, just bevel the edges make the welds flush and pentration.
The Jalopy Journal
