Dad5
Well-Known Member
I would like some input/opinions on the pros and cons of these 2 units.
Without looking at price, Big Blue Airpak every time.
Having never used either machine I have no preference for color, as long as it's red or blue. I own several welders of each color and they are all good afaiac.
That said I did a quick look up on the net and the specs for these machines are virtually identical as far as spec's are concerned. Equal weld output, ac power output, compressor cfm etc.
Some things that would help me decide on the Lincoln over the Miller.
1. Lincoln has a Kubota engine vs Millers Deutz, in my experience Kubota are better on fuel and more dependable than a Deutz
2. Lincoln has a SS hood instead of blue painted steel on the Miller.
3. Lincoln has a gear drive compressor, Miller uses a belt drive.
4. Lincoln has a specific optimized setting for arc gouging which is probably why most would buy this machine.
I would be happy to own either machine, they would both be a good investment if this is what you are looking for. Whether a welder with a compressor is best or having a separate compressor is another question to consider.
So.....is it worth the money to have the built in compressor?
These are really nice units, ideal as I said for arc gouging and welding in the field, for those who need the capability.
The question is what if the welder or compressor fails. Then the entire unit is unusable while it gets repaired. The advantage of a separate compressor and welder is that failure of one doesn't affect the other and a replacement or rental unit gets you back to work quicker. Also you pay a premium price to get the all in one convenience, is it worth it? That is the question you must answer yourself.
I will give you something to think bout, you dont see miller welders on the pipeline welders truck for a reason!!!!
I will give you something to think bout, you dont see miller welders on the pipeline welders truck for a reason!!!!
Funny, you see TONS of Miller machines on pipeliner's trucks around here.
as their main welder or as a generator side to run the grinder/lights, around here ALL the pipeliners run a BIG Lincoln welder & most have a smaller 225-250 amp machine to run the grinders/electric tools also..
If my main business was rebuilding buckets and repair welding in the field I would probably have one of these machines.
For a general purpose service truck where the welder and air compressor is only used occasionally, I think I would pass and go with smaller individual units or something like the miller trailblazer air pack machine. Would be less costly to purchase and might be all you need on a general purpose service truck.