I just found a web page that could make your options wider.

www.phasechanger.com

Its a box that you wire into your regular mains, and gives 3 phase out. They are an australian mob, and the products seem reasonable. They claim its cheaper then getting 3 phase put in permantly, and its removable.

This means that you could conisder a 3 phase unit. Just an option, but as always its a budget thing. They dont quote prices on the page, so I am gonna chase it up when I get back from work.

hey BUD
Beastofburden is spot on with what he is saying mate.

130 amps is ok for smaller car panel repairs etc but if you are planning on doing your own fabricating like manifolds or a cage etc then go 170 at least as you can always turn it down low for your smaller stuff and crank it for some good penetration when you need it.

I have had nearly 20 yrs fab experience myself so i,m not talking #### to you ok mate.
Wait the extra time and buy the right machine the first time and you wont ever regret it.

Fire any questions to me if you need any help ok mate.
cheers DAMO
auto fab

Hey Ben,it's like most things,you get what you pay for and none of us like spending money BUT a decent mig once you learn to use it (not hard)will become your best friend in the workshop and noy just for car stuff either.Personally i would not look at anything under 190,i use a 220 for everything from panel steel to roll cages to building car trailers.If you can save for a bit longer and find about $1100.00 (Qld. prices) you will never regret it and if looked after will last a lifetime and you will be able to get spare parts when needed.

Yep, like he said! would be great for panels and rustoration work but might be a bit light if you want to make up solid brackets etc.

Another thing to check is if it can run gassless wire if you so wish.

Hey Ben I,d go a bit higher like 170amps.. 130amps will be ok for panels but there,s nothing like a bit more grunt for fabricating!! Good luck & have fun

Just wondering if something like this is a good mig to start me off? http://cgi.ebay.com.au/BRAND-NEW-130A ... 46413QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
if not can someone send me in the right direction please?
has anyone had experiance with this welder?
i dont wnat to spend alot.

Thanks alot, Ben.