Eastwood MP250i User manual

MP250iWELDER
INSTRUCTIONS
Item #21180

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The EASTWOOD MP250i WELDER provides the ability to MIG, TIG or ARC (Stick) weld all from a single, high-powered, self-contained unit. Inverter Technology
provides the capability of welding thin or heavy gauge steel with precision and ease. For additional versatility and aluminum welding capability, add the optionally
available Eastwood # 20172 Spool Gun.
READ AND UNDERSTAND ALL INSTRUCTIONS AND PRECAUTIONS BEFORE PROCEEDING.
This unit emits a powerful high voltage and extreme heat which can cause severe burns, dismemberment, electrical shock and death. Eastwood shall not be held
liable for consequences due to deliberate or unintentional misuse of this product.
(1) MP250i Welder
(1) Front Caster Assembly
(1) Rear Wheel/Gas Cylinder Tray Assembly
(2) Gas Cylinder Brackets
(2) Gas Cylinder Chains
(18) M5 x 12mm Screws
(3) M5 Nuts
(6) M5 Flat Washers
(3) M5 Lockwashers
(1) Shielding Gas Hose, 4.6’ [1.4m]
(1) Ground Clamp with 14.8’ [4.5m] Cable
(1) MIG Torch with 14.8’ [4.5m] Cable,
0.030” Tip Installed
(2) Spare Contact Tips (0.030” & 0.035”)
(1) Contact Tip Wrench
(1) 2mm Hex Key
(1) Electrode Holder with 14.8’ [4.5m] Cable
(1) TIG Torch (Tweco Style) with 14.8’
[4.5m] cable and 17.8’ [5.5m] Gas Line
(1) #5 Gas Nozzle (5/16”) (Installed)
(1) #6 Gas Nozzle (3/8”)
(1) #7 Gas Nozzle (7/16”)
(1) Short Back Cap (Installed)
(1) Long Back Cap
(1) Collet Body, 3/32” [2.4mm] (Installed)
(1) Collet, 1/16” [1.6mm]
(1) Collet, 1/8” [3.2mm]
(1) 1/16” x 6” [2.0mm x 150mm]
Tungsten (Red)
(1) Adapter Cord, 24” [0.6m]
(1) Welding Mask
(1) Hammer/Brush
(1) Instruction Manual
STATEMENT OF LIMITED WARRANTY
The Eastwood Company (hereinafter “Eastwood”) warrants to the end user (purchaser) of all new welding and cutting equipment (collectively called the “products”) that it will
be free of defects in workmanship and material. This warranty is void if the equipment has been subjected to improper installation, improper care or abnormal operations.
WARRANTY PERIOD:
All warranty periods begin on the date of purchase from Eastwood. Warranty Periods are listed below, along with the products covered during those warranty periods:
3 Year Warranty on Material, Workmanship, and Defects:
• Eastwood MP250i Welder Items not covered under this warranty: Consumables, Collets, Collet Bodies, Electrodes, Nozzles, Ground Clamp and Cable.
All other components are covered by the warranty and will be repaired or replaced at the discretion of Eastwood.
2 Years:
• All Welding Helmets.
CONDITIONS OF WARRANTY TO OBTAIN WARRANTY COVERAGE:
Purchaser must first contact Eastwood at 1-800-345-1178 for an RMA# before Eastwood will accept any Welder returns.
Final determination of warranty on welding and cutting equipment will be made by Eastwood.
WARRANTY REPAIR:
If Eastwood confirms the existence of a defect covered under this warranty plan, Eastwood will determine whether repair or replacement is the most suitable option to rectify
the defect. At Eastwood’s request, the purchaser must return, to Eastwood, any products claimed defective under Eastwood’s warranty.
FREIGHT COSTS:
The purchaser is responsible for shipment to and from Eastwood.
WARRANTY LIMITATIONS:
EASTWOOD WILL NOT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR REPAIRS UNLESS MADE BY EASTWOOD. EASTWOOD’S LIABILITY UNDER THIS WARRANTY SHALL
NOT EXCEED THE COST OF CORRECTING THE DEFECT OF THE EASTWOOD PRODUCT. EASTWOOD WILL NOT BE LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES
(SUCH AS LOSS OF BUSINESS, ETC.) CAUSED BY THE DEFECT OR THE TIME INVOLVED TO CORRECT THE DEFECT. THIS WRITTEN WARRANTY IS THE ONLY EXPRESS
WARRANTY PROVIDED BY EASTWOOD WITH RESPECT TO ITS PRODUCTS. WARRANTIES IMPLIED BY LAW SUCH AS THE WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY ARE
LIMITED TO THE DURATION OF THIS LIMITED WARRANTY FOR THE EQUIPMENT INVOLVED. THIS WARRANTY GIVES THE PURCHASER SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS.
THE PURCHASER MAY ALSO HAVE OTHER RIGHTS WHICH VARY FROM STATE TO STATE.
CONTENTS

DUTY CYCLE
The rated Duty Cycle refers to the amount of welding that can be done within an amount of time. The Eastwood MP250i has a Duty Cycle of 60% at 250 Amps.
It is easiest to look at your welding time in blocks of 10 Minutes and the Duty Cycle being a percentage of that 10 Minutes. If welding at 250 Amps with a
60% Duty Cycle, within a 10 Minute block of time you can weld for 6 Minutes with 4 Minutes of cooling for the Welder.
If the Duty Cycle is exceeded, the Welder will automatically shut off, however the fan will continue running to cool the internal components. When a safe temperature
has been reached, the Welder will automatically switch the Welder output back on. To increase the Duty Cycle you can turn down the Voltage Output control.
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SPECIFICATIONS
POWER SUPPLY
Solid Stainless Flux Core
Wire Type and Diameter 0.030-0.045”
[0.8-1.2mm]
0.030-0.045”
[0.8-1.2mm]
0.030-0.045”
[0.8-1.2mm]
MIG WELDING WIRE
4043 Aluminum
Wire Type and Diameter 0.030-0.035”
[0.8-0.9mm]
SPOOL GUN WELDING WIRE
Type E6010 E6011 E6013 E7014 E7018
Diameter 1/16”, 3/32”,
1/8”, 7/32”
1/16”, 3/32”,
1/8”, 7/32”
1/16”, 3/32”,
1/8”, 7/32”
1/16”, 3/32”,
1/8”, 7/32”
1/16”, 3/32”,
1/8”, 7/32”
Polarity DCEN DCEN DCEN, DCEP DCEN, DCEP DCEP
ARC WELDING RODS
Power Voltage (V) 1 phase 240V±10% 1 phase 120V±10%
Frequency (Hz) 50/60
No Load Voltage (V) 61
Rated Input Current (Amps)
MIG = 47.3
TIG = 35.7
Arc = 53.5
MIG = 42
TIG = 31.2
Arc = 51.1
Output Current Adjustment (Amps)
MIG = 50-250
TIG = 15-250
Arc = 25-250
MIG = 50-140
TIG = 15-140
Arc = 25-140
Output Voltage (V)
MIG = 16.5-26.5
TIG = 10.6-20
Arc = 21-30
MIG = 16.5-21
TIG = 10.6-15.6
Arc = 21-25.6
Duty Cycle (%) 60% @ 250 Amps
Power Factor 0.73
Efficiency (%) 80
Wire Feed Speed (ft/min) 78-629
Post Flow Time (seconds) 1.0 ± 0.5
Weight 96 lbs. [43.6kg]
Dimensions 36” x 21” x 31” [900mm x 765mm x 765mm]

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DANGER indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
WARNING indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION used with the safety alert symbol, indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.
NOTICE is used to address practices not related to personal injury.
ELECTRIC SHOCK CAN CAUSE INJURY OR DEATH!
• Improper use of an electric Welder can cause electric shock, injury and death! Read all precautions described in the Welder Manual to
reduce the possibility of electric shock.
• Disconnect Welder from power supply before assembly, disassembly or maintenance of the torch, contact tip and when installing or
removing nozzles.
• Always wear dry, protective clothing and leather welding gloves and insulated footwear. Use suitable clothing made from durable
flame-resistant material to protect your skin.
• If other persons or pets are in the area of welding, use welding screens to protect bystanders from sparks and ARC rays.
• Always operate the Welder in a clean, dry, well ventilated area. Do not operate the Welder in humid, wet, rainy or poorly ventilated areas.
• The electrode and work (or ground) circuits are electrically “hot” when the Welder is on. Do not allow these “hot” parts to come in
contact with your bare skin or wet clothing.
• Separate yourself from the welding circuit by using insulating mats to prevent contact from the work surface.
• Be sure that the work piece is properly supported and grounded prior to beginning an electric welding operation.
• Always attach the Ground Clamp to the piece to be welded and as close to the weld area as possible. This will give the least resistance
and best weld.
WELDING SPARKS CAN CAUSE FIRE OR EXPLOSION!
• Electric welding produces sparks which can be discharged considerable distances at high velocity igniting flammable or exploding vapors
and materials.
DO NOT operate electric arc Welder in areas where flammable or explosive vapors are present.
DO NOT use near combustible surfaces. Remove all flammable items from the work area where welding sparks can reach (min. of 35 feet).
• Always keep a fire extinguisher nearby while welding.
• Use welding blankets to protect painted and or flammable surfaces; rubber weather-stripping, dash boards, engines, etc.
• Ensure power supply has properly rated wiring to handle power usage.
SAFETY INFORMATION
IMPORTANT NOTE:
These instructions are intended only to provide the user with some familiarity of the Eastwood MP250i. Electric Welding is a highly complex procedure with many
variables. If you have no prior experience with Electric Welding, it is extremely important to seek the advice of someone experienced in Electric Welding for instruc-
tion, enroll in a local technical school welding course or study a comprehensive how-to DVD and obtain a good quality reference book on Electric Welding as there
is a moderate learning curve necessary before achieving proficiency in Welding different metals such as steel, stainless steel and aluminum. It is also strongly
recommended that the user adhere to the American Welding Society guidelines, codes and applications prior to producing welds where safety is affected.
Welding can be dangerous to you and other persons in the work area. Read and understand this instruction manual before using your Eastwood welding machine.
Injury or death can occur if safe welding practices are not followed. Safety information is set forth below and throughout this manual. Save these instructions for
future reference.
To learn more about welding safety, read OSHA Title 29 CFR 1910, available at www.osha.gov; ANSI Z49.1, “Safety in Welding, Cutting and Allied Processes,”
available at www.aws.org; and the consumable manufacturer’s Safety Data Sheets.
The following explanations are displayed in this manual, on the labeling, and on all other information provided with this product:

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ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS CAN BE A HEALTH HAZARD!
• The electromagnetic field that is generated during arc welding may interfere with various electrical and electronic devices such as
cardiac pacemakers. Anyone using such devices should consult with their physician prior to performing any electric welding operations.
• Exposure to electromagnetic fields while welding may have other health effects which are not known.
ARC RAYS CAN INJURE EYES AND BURN!
• Arc rays produce intense ultraviolet radiation which can burn exposed skin and cause eye damage. Use a shield with the proper filter
(a minimum of #11) to protect your eyes from sparks and the rays of the arc when welding or when observing open arc welding
(see ANSI Z49.1 and Z87.1 for safety standards).
• Use suitable clothing made from durable flame-resistant material to protect your skin.
• If other persons or pets are in the area of welding, use welding screens to protect bystanders from sparks and arc rays.
FUMES AND WELDING GASES CAN BE A HEALTH HAZARD!
• Fumes and gasses released during welding are hazardous. Do not breathe fumes that are produced by the welding operation.
• Prolonged inhalation of welding fumes above safety exposure limits can injure the lungs and other organs.
• Use enough ventilation and/or exhaust at the arc to keep fumes and gases from your breathing area.
• Use an OSHA approved respirator when welding in confined spaces or where there is inadequate ventilation.
• Never weld coated materials including, but not limited to: cadmium plated, galvanized, lead based paints.
BUILDUP OF GAS CAN INJURE OR KILL!
• Shut off gas supply when not in use.
• Ensure adequate ventilation
• Do not weld in confined areas.
• Always turn your face away from valve outlet when opening cylinder valve.
CYLINDERS CAN EXPLODE IF DAMAGED!
Shielding gas cylinders contain gas under high pressure. If damaged, a cylinder can explode. As gas cylinders are a normal component of the
welding process, use extra care to handle them carefully.
• Protect compressed gas cylinders from excessive heat, mechanical shocks, physical damage, slag, open flames, sparks and arcs.
Keep away from any welding or other electrical circuits.
• Install cylinders in an upright position by securing to a specifically designed rack, cart or stationary support to prevent falling or
tipping over.
• Never weld on a pressurized cylinder or explosion will occur.
• Use only correct shielding gas cylinders, regulators, hoses and fittings designed for the specific application; maintain them and all
related components in good condition.
• Keep protective cap in place over valve except when cylinder is in use.
• Use proper equipment, procedures and have adequate help when moving or lifting cylinders.
SAFETY INFORMATION

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HOT METAL AND TOOLS WILL BURN!!
• Electric welding heats metal and tools to temperatures that will cause severe burns!
• Use protective, heat resistant gloves and clothing when using Eastwood or any other welding equipment. Never touch welded work
surface, torch tip or nozzle until they have completely cooled.
FLYING METAL CHIPS CAN CAUSE INJURY!
• Grinding and sanding will eject metal chips, dust, debris and sparks at high velocity. To prevent eye injury wear approved safety glasses.
• Wear an OSHA-approved respirator when grinding or sanding.
• Read all manuals included with specific grinders, sanders or other power tools used before and after the welding process. Be aware of
all power tool safety warnings.
FIRST AID
• If exposed to excessive fumes move to an area with fresh air. Follow safety information on manufacturer’s Safety Data Sheet.
• For other injuries follow basic first aid techniques and call a physician or emergency medical personnel.
SAFETY INFORMATION
CONNECTING THE WELDER TO A POWER SOURCE
The Eastwood MP250i Welder has dual current capability and requires a dedicated 120 VAC, 20 Amp or a 240 VAC, 50 Amp. 60HZ grounded outlet protected by a
circuit breaker. The plug installed on the Welder is a NEMA 6-50P and should be used with a NEMA 6-50R receptacle. If using an extension cord, use a minimum
6 AWG cord for up to 25 feet.

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ASSEMBLY
FRONT WHEELS
• Pull Welder from packaging, lift front end and support it securely.
• Using three M5 Nuts and Washers, locate over studs and attach the
front Caster Assembly and Front Caster Spacer to the underside of
the cabinet (FIG 1).
REAR WHEELS
• Lift and support rear end of Welder.
• Using (4) M5 x 12mm screws on rear and three M5 x 20mm Screws and
Washers at the underside, attach the Rear Wheel/Tray Assembly to the
underside and rear of the cabinet (FIGS 2 & 3).
TANK SUPPORTS
• With flanges facing downward, attach the two Tank Supports to the rear
of the cabinet with three M5 x 12mm screws each (FIG 4).
TANK CHAINS
• Hook ends of Tank Chains into the slots on the outer corners of the
Tank Supports (FIG 4).
FIG. 1
FIG. 2
FIG. 3
FIG. 4

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CONTROL AND DISPLAY PANEL
The Eastwood MP250i Front Panel
is arranged with 8 major groups
of Function Controls and
LED Indicators. They are as follows:
1. VRD Indicator
2. MIG/TIG/ARC Selector Button
3. MIG Torch/Spool Gun Selector Button
4. 2T/4T Selector Button
5. Inductance Adjustment Knob
6. Voltage Adjustment Knob
7. Current/Wire Speed Adjustment Knob
8. Overload Condition Indicator
1. VRD Switch: VRD = voltage reducing device. This function drops voltage when not welding to help prevent potential ARC start or shock when replacing
an electrode. Normal output is 60v, while VRD drops the no-load voltage to roughly 24v. To turn the function on or off, you must be in the Stick Welding
setting with Amperage setting at 108 amps, then press and hold the 2T/4T button. Illuminates GREEN when on.
2. MIG Torch/Spool Gun Switch: (MIG/TIG/ARC Switch Must be in MIG mode). Select for Wire Feed Torch or optional
Spool Gun (not included)
3. MIG/TIG/ARC (Stick) Switch: Used to select between MIG, TIG or ARC (Stick) welding functionality.
4. 2T / 4T 2T/4T SWITCH:
2T: For 2-step operation of short welding.
- Depress trigger and hold in. Pre-flow and Arc begin.
- To end arc, release trigger and Arc will terminate followed by the predetermined post flow.
4T: For 4-step operation of long welding.
- Depress trigger and hold in. Pre-flow and Arc begin.
- Once the Arc has started, release the trigger. The Arc will stay lit.
- To terminate the Arc, depress trigger once again and hold until Arc termination is desired and release the trigger.
- Releasing the trigger ta this point will terminate the Arc, followed by the predetermined post flow.
5. Inductance Setting Knob: The inductance setting controls the rate of current rise following the short-circuit state. That is during the time when the wire
is short circuiting into the weld puddle. This setting affects the arc time too. That is the amount of time the short circuit cycle spends arcing and providing
heat to the puddle A high inductance setting increases the time of each individual arc cycle and therefore can improve wetting of the puddle. This produces
a “softer” puddle which is excellent for smooth fillet welds. A low inductance increases the frequency of each short circuit/arc cycle and can be useful for
pinpointing a narrow bead in some joints. Offers greater penetration however it will produce more spatter.
6. Voltage Control Knob: Controls the voltage output range for MIG; 15 to 30 Volts. Voltage value is indicated by the digital LED display.
7. Wire Speed / Arc Control Knob: Dual Function Control and Display
Press “A” Button to select Arc Current. The Knob controls the Amperage output while the Digital LED displays the Amperage value.
Current Range; 15 to 250 AMPS.
Press “Inches/Min Button to select Wire Speed. The Knob controls the Wire Speed when MIG welding while the Digital LED displays the Wire Speed value.
Speed range; 78 n/min to 627 in/min.
8. Overload Indicator: Illuminates GREEN when Duty Cycle has been exceeded, the Welder is overloaded or if other abnormalities exist.
FIG. 4
1
2
4
5
6
7
3
8

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SET UP AND OPERATION FOR MIG WELDING
SET UP FOR MIG WELDING
Installing the MIG Welding Gun
• Open the side door of the Welder and loosen the Welding Gun
Thumb Screw (FIG 7).
• Slide the brass body of the Welding Gun in through the front of the Welder
into the Welding Gun Power Connection located at the lower left front panel
(FIG 8). Be sure to insert until it bottoms against the drive assembly or a
gas leak may occur.
•Tighten the Welding Gun Torch Thumbscrew securely.
• Connect the male metal plug to the female Cannon Plug Connection on
the front of the Welder (FIG 8).
• Switch the “MIG/TIG/ARC” Selector Button located on the Front Panel
to the MIG Position and switch “MIG Torch/Spool Gun” Switch to
“MIG Torch” (FIG 5).
FIG. 7
FIG. 6
FIG. 8
Wire
Tensioners
✓
✓
MIG Gun
Thumbscrew
Drive Roller
Thumbscrews
Drive
Rollers
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
MIG Gun Power
Connection
Cannon Plug
Connection
Polarity
Jumper Lead
“–” Polarity
Connection
“+” Polarity
Connection
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓

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Installing the Ground Cable and Clamp for Solid Wire MIG with Shielding Gas
MIG (DCEP) (Illustration MIG DCEP)
• Locate the Ground Clamp with Cable and connect the plug on the cable end to
the (–)connector on the Front Panel of the Welder. To connect the plug, line
up the key on the plug with the keyway on the socket of the Welder, insert the
plug and twist Clockwise until it is tight (FIGS 6 & 8).
• Attach the MIG Torch connector to the MIG/TIG Torch connection on the Lower
Left Front Panel. To connect the plug, line up the key on the plug with the
keyway on the socket of the Welder, insert the plug and twist Clockwise until
it is tight (FIG 6).
• Install the Polarity Jumper Lead into the (+)connector by inserting the keyed
brass connector and rotating to lock in place (FIGS 6 & 8).
Changing the Polarity
To use a Flux Cored wire, the Polarity must be changed to the DCEN configuration:
Flux-cored MIG (DCEN) (Illustration FLUX DCEN)
• Remove the Ground Clamp Cable connection from the lower Front Panel
by rotating and pulling out.
• Install the Ground Clamp Cable connector by inserting the keyed brass
connector into the (+)connector and rotating to lock in place (FIGS 6 & 8).
Install the Polarity Jumper Lead into the (-)connector by inserting the
keyed brass connector and rotating to lock in place (FIGS 6 & 8).
INSTALLING THE SHIELDING GAS SUPPLY
• Shut off gas supply when not in use.
• Ensure adequate ventilation
• Do not weld in confined areas.
• Always turn your face away from valve outlet when opening cylinder valve.
• Protect compressed gas cylinders from excessive heat, mechanical shocks, physical damage, slag, open flames, sparks and arcs.
Keep away from any welding or other electrical circuits.
• Install cylinders in an upright position by securing to a specifically designed rack, cart or stationary support to prevent falling or tipping over.
• Never weld on a pressurized cylinder or explosion will occur.
• Use only correct shielding gas cylinders, regulators, hoses and fittings designed for the specific application; maintain them and all related
components in good condition.
• Keep protective cap in place over valve except when cylinder is in use.
• Use proper equipment, procedures and have adequate help when moving or lifting cylinders.
Illustration
FLUX DCEN
ELECTRIC SHOCK CAN CAUSE INJURY OR DEATH!
• Disconnect Welder from power supply before beginning.
BUILDUP OF GAS CAN INJURE OR KILL!
CYLINDERS CAN EXPLODE IF DAMAGED!
Shielding gas cylinders contain gas under high pressure.
If damaged, a cylinder can explode. As gas cylinders are
a normal component of the welding process, use extra
care to handle them carefully.
MIG( P)DCE
Illustration
MIG DCEP