Forney 270 User manual

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CAT# 319
REV 04.14.2017
FEATURES:
• 270 Amp Output / 230V Input
• For Steel, Stainless Steel, and Aluminum
welding
• Heavy duty torch
• Aluminum drive system
• Easy to use, forgiving, increases
productivity
• Digital readout for true amps
• Three trigger modes with spot weld timer
• Optional spool gun increases flexibility
• Burn back and slope control
IDEAL FOR:
General Fabrication, Auto Body, Farm &
Ranch, Sheet Metal, Contractor, and More...
INCLUDES:
Torch, Ground Cable and Clamp, Input Power
Cable, Gas Hose and Regulator
270 MIG WELDER
OPERATING MANUAL
ENGLISH

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Forney Promise
We are committed to your success regardless of location, size or
needs. We understand it is your goal to get the job done right,
and we are ready to help you do just that.
President's Message
We market the highest quality tools, equipment and accessories
for the do-it-yourselfer and professional. Our passion and
dedication in bringing new products to the industrial and retail
market, combined with our personal service, is unmatched in our
industry. Our ability to listen to our customers’ needs enables us to
create solutions to their problems.
Our dedication to the highest quality customer service within our
corporate headquarters and the service provided in the field is
unequaled. We are committed to creating the best solutions to our
customer’s needs. Above all, our employees will provide the same
respect and caring attitude within the organization as they are
expected to share with every Forney customer. Our goal will be to
exceed our customers’ expectations through empowered people,
guided by shared values and commitments.
We work hard so our customers trust us because of our integrity,
teamwork and innovation of Forney products, and Forney’s
80 years of unmatched product quality and an unwavering
commitment to our customers.
When our customers succeed we succeed.
STEVEN G. ANDERSON, President & CEO
Copyright© 2014 Forney Industries,
Inc. All rights reserved. Unauthorized
reproduction and/or distribution is
subject to US copyright laws.
U.S. Warehouses:
- Fort Collins, CO
- Tipp City, OH
FIVE WAYS TO ORDER
Web: www.forneyind.com
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Mail: Forney Industries
2057 Vermont Drive
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Email: [e-mail]

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STOP!
PLEASE DO NOT
RETURN TO THE STORE
If you have questions or problems with your new plasma cutter,
please call customer service at 1-800-521-6038
Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. (MST) or at
www.forneyind.com/about-us/contact-us.
Please take time to register your product at
www.forneyind.com/support/product-registration.
Thank you and enjoy your new welder.
For the most up-to-date
warranty information,
visit www.forneyind.com

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CAUTION!
BEFORE INSTALLING, OPERATING OR CARRYING OUT MAINTENANCE ON THE MACHINE, READ THE CONTENTS OF THIS MANUAL
CAREFULLY, PAYING PARTICULAR ATTENTION TO THE SAFETY RULES AND HAZARDS.
In the event of these instructions not being clear, please contact your
Forney Authorized Dealer or Forney Customer Service 1-800-521-6038
• Safety in Welding and Cutting, ANSI Standard Z49.1, from American Welding Society, 8669 Doral
Boulevard, Suite 130, Doral, FL 33166 Safety and Health Standards, OSHA 29 CFR 1910, from
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
• Recommended Safe Practices for the Preparation for Welding and Cutting of Containers That Have
Held Hazardous Substances, American Welding Society Standard AWS F4.1, from American
Welding Society, 8669 Doral Boulevard, Suite 130, Doral, FL 33166
• National Electrical Code, NFPA Standard 70, from National Fire Protection Association,
Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269.
• Safe Handling of Compressed Gases in Cylinders, CGA Pamphlet P-1, from Compressed Gas
Association, 1235 Jefferson Davis Highway, Suite 501, Arlington, VA 22202.
• Code for Safety in Welding and Cutting, CSA Standard W117.2, from Canadian Standards
Association, Standards Sales, 178 Rexdale Boulevard, Rexdale, Ontario, Canada M9W 1R3.
• Safe Practices For Occupation And Educational Eye And Face Protection, ANSI Standard Z87.1,
from American National Standards Institute, 1430 Broadway, New York, NY 10018.
• Cutting And Welding Processes, NFPA Standard 51B, from National Fire Protection Association,
Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269
California Proposition 65 Warning
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including lead, which are known to the State
of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to
www.P65Warnings.ca.gov. P65 details at forneyind.com. Wash hands after use.
EMF Information
Welding or cutting current, as it flows through the welding or cutting cables, will cause electromagnetic
fields. There has been and still is some concern about such fields. However, after examination the
committee of the National Research Council concluded that: “The body of evidence, in the committee’s
judgment, has not demonstrated that exposure to power-frequency electric and a magnetic field is a
human health hazard.” However, studies are still going forth and evidence continues to be examined.
Until the final conclusions of the research are reached, you may wish to minimize your exposure to
electromagnetic fields when welding or cutting.
To reduce magnetic fields in the workplace, use the following procedures:
1. Keep cables close together by twisting or taping them.
2. Arrange cables to one side and away from the operator.
3. Do not coil or drape cables around your body.
4. Keep welding or cutting power source and cables as far away from operator as practical.
5. Connect work clamp to work piece as close to the cut or weld as possible.
ABOUT PACEMAKERS & HEARING AIDS:
Pacemaker & Hearing Aid wearers consult your doctor first. If cleared by your doctor, then following
the above procedures is recommended.
Safety Information
Principal Safety Standards

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Personal Protection
Welding processes of any kind can be dangerous not only to the operator but to any person situated
near the equipment, if safety and operating rules are not strictly observed.
THE WELDING ARC PRODUCES VERY BRIGHT ULTRAVIOLET AND INFRARED
LIGHT. THESE ARC RAYS WILL DAMAGE YOUR EYES AND BURN YOUR SKIN IF
YOU ARE NOT PROPERLY PROTECTED. To reduce the risk of injury from arc rays, read,
understand, and follow the safety instructions. In addition, make certain that anyone else that
uses this welding equipment, or is a bystander in the welding area understands and follows
these safety instructions as well. Helmets and filter should conform to ANSI Z87.1 standards.
• Do not look at an electric arc without proper protection. A welding arc is extremely bright
and intense and, with inadequate or no eye protection, the retina can be burned, leaving
a permanent dark spot in the field of vision. A shield or helmet with a #10 shade filter lens
(minimum) must be used.
• Do not strike a welding arc until all bystanders and you (the welder) have welding shields
and/or helmets in place.
• Do not wear a cracked or broken helmet and replace any cracked or broken filter lenses
immediately.
• Do not allow the uninsulated portion of the wire feed gun to touch the ground clamp or
grounded work to prevent an arc flash from being created on contact.
• Provide bystanders with shields or helmets fitted with an appropriate shade filter lens.
• Wear protective clothing. The intense light of the welding arc can burn the skin in much
the same way as the sun, even through light-weight clothing. Wear dark clothing of heavy
material. The shirt worn should be long sleeved and the collar kept buttoned to protect chest
and neck.
• Protect against reflected arc rays. Arc rays can be reflected off shiny surfaces such as a glossy
painted surface, aluminum, stainless steel, and glass. It is possible for your eyes to be injured
by reflected arc rays even when wearing a protective helmet or shield. If welding with a
reflective surface behind you, arc rays can bounce off the surface and off the filter lens. It can
get inside your helmet or shield and into your eyes. If a reflective background exists in your
welding area, either remove it or cover it with something non-flammable and non-reflective.
Reflective arc rays can also cause skin burn in addition to eye injury.
• Flying sparks can injure. Wear proper safety equipment to protect eyes and face. Shape
tungsten electrode on grinder wearing proper protection and in a safe location. Keep
flammables away and prevent fire from flying sparks.
FUMES, GASSES, AND VAPORS CAN CAUSE DISCOMFORT, ILLNESS, AND
DEATH! To reduce the risk, read, understand, and follow the safety instructions. In addition,
make certain that anyone else that uses this welding equipment or is a bystander in the welding
area, understands and follows these safety instructions as well.
• Read and understand manufacturers SDS and MSDS.
• Do not weld in an area until it is checked for adequate ventilation as described in ANSI
standard Z49.1. If ventilation is not adequate to exchange all fumes and gasses generated
during the welding process with fresh air, do not weld unless you (the welder) and all
bystanders are wearing air-supplied respirators.
• Do not heat metals coated with, or that contain, materials that produce toxic fumes (such as
galvanized steel), unless the coating is removed. Make certain the area is well ventilated, and
the operator and all bystanders are wearing air-sup plied respirators.

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• Do not weld, cut or heat lead, zinc, cadmium, mercury, beryllium, antimony, cobalt,
manganese, selenium, arsenic, copper, silver, barium, chromium, vanadium, nickel, or
similar metals without seeking professional advice and inspection of the ventilation of the
welding area. These metals produce extremely toxic fumes which can cause discomfort,
illness and death.
• Do not weld or cut in areas that are near chlorinated solvents. Vapors from chlorinated
hydrocarbons, such as trichloroethylene and perchloroethylene, can be decomposed by the
heat of an electric arc or its ultraviolet radiation. These actions can cause phosgene, a highly
toxic gas, to form, along with other lung and eye-irritating gasses. Do not weld or cut where
these solvent vapors can be drawn into the work area or where the ultraviolet radiation can
penetrate to areas containing even very small amounts of these vapors.
• Do not weld in a confined area unless it is being ventilated or the operator (and anyone else
in the area) is wearing an air-supplied respirator.
• Stop welding if you develop momentary eye, nose, or throat irritation as this indicates
inadequate ventilation. Stop work and take necessary steps to improve ventilation in the
welding area. Do not resume welding if physical discomfort persists.
Fire Prevention
FIRE OR EXPLOSION CAN CAUSE DEATH, INJURY, AND PROPERTY DAMAGE!
To reduce these risks, read, understand and follow the safety instructions. In addition, make
certain that anyone else that uses this welding equipment, or is a bystander in the welding
area, understands and follows these safety instructions as well. Remember: arc welding by
nature produces sparks, hot spatter, molten metal drops, hot slag and hot metal parts that can
start fires, burn skin and damage eyes.
• Do not wear gloves or other clothing that contains oil, grease, or other flammable
substances.
• Do not wear flammable hair preparations.
• Do not touch the hot weld bead or weld puddle until fully cooled.
• Do not weld in an area until it is checked and cleared of combustible and/or flammable
materials. Be aware that sparks and slag can fly 35 feet and can pass through small cracks
and openings. If work and combustibles cannot be separated by a minimum of 35 feet,
protect against ignition with suitable, snug-fitting, fire resistant, covers or shields.
• Do not weld on walls until checking for and removing combustibles touching the other side of
the walls.
• Do not weld, cut, or perform other such work on used barrels, drums, tanks, or other
containers that had a flammable or toxic substance. The techniques for removing flammable
substance and vapors, to make a used container safe for welding or cutting, are quite
complex and require special education and training.
• Do not strike an arc on a compressed gas or air cylinder. Doing so will create a brittle
area that can result in a violent rupture immediately or at a later time as a result of rough
handling.
• Do not weld or cut in an area where the air may contain flammable dust (such as grain
dust), gas, or liquid vapors (such as gasoline).
• Do not handle hot metal, such as the work piece or electrode stubs, with bare hands.
• Wear leather gloves, heavy long sleeve shirt, cuffless pants, high-topped shoes, helmet, and
cap. As necessary, use additional protective clothing such as leather jacket or sleeves, fire
resistant leggings, or apron. Hot sparks or metal can lodge in rolled up sleeves, pant cuffs,
or pockets. Sleeves and collars should be kept buttoned and pockets eliminated from the shirt
front.
• Have fire extinguisher equipment handy for immediate use. A portable chemical fire
extinguisher, type ABC, is recommended.

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• Wear ear plugs when welding overhead to prevent spatter or slag from falling into ear.
• Make sure welding area has a good, solid, safe floor, preferably concrete or masonry, not
tiled, carpeted, or made of any other flammable material.
• Protect flammable walls, ceilings, and floors with heat resistant covers or shields.
• Check welding area to make sure it is free of sparks, glowing metal or slag, and flames
before leaving the welding area.
• Wear garments free of oil or other flammable substances such as leather gloves, thick cotton
shirts with no synthetic materials, cuffless trousers, closed toed shoes. Keep long hair pulled
back.
• Remove any combustibles such as lighters and matches before doing any welding.
• Follow requirements in OSHA and NFPA for hot work and have an extinguisher nearby.
High Frequency Radiation
• High Frequency (H.F) can interfere with radio navigation, safety services, computers and
communication equipment.
• It is the user’s responsibility to have a qualified electrician promptly correct any interference
problem resulting from the installation. Electrician should regularly check and maintain
installation.
• Stop using the equipment if notified by the FCC about interference.
• Keep H.F. source doors and panels tightly shut and keep spark gaps at correct setting.
Arc Welding
• Computers and computer driven equipment can be harmed with electromagnetic energy.
• Be sure all equipment is compatible with electromagnetic energy.
• Keep welding cables short to reduce interference.
• Follow manual to install and ground machine.
• If interference continues, shield the work area or move the welding machine.
WARNING: ELECTRIC SHOCK CAN KILL! To reduce the risk of death or serious injury
from shock, read, understand, and follow the safety instructions. In addition, make certain
that anyone else who uses this welding equipment, or who is a bystander in the welding area
understands and follows these safety instructions as well.
IMPORTANT! TO REDUCE THE RISK OF DEATH, INJURY, OR PROPERTY
DAMAGE, DO NOT ATTEMPT OPERATION of this welding equipment until you have read
and understand the following safety summary.
• Do not, in any manner, come into physical contact with any part of the welding current
circuit. The welding current circuit includes:
a. the work piece or any conductive material in contact with it,
b. the ground clamp,
c. the electrode or welding wire,
d. any metal parts on the electrode holder, or wire feed gun.
• Do not weld in a damp area or come in contact with a moist or wet surface.
• Do not attempt to weld if any part of clothing or body is wet.
• Do not allow the welding equipment to come in contact with water or moisture.
• Do not drag welding cables, wire feed gun, or welder power cord through or allow them to
come into contact with water or moisture.
Electric Shock

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• Do not touch welder, attempt to turn welder on or off if any part of the body or clothing is
moist or if you are in physical contact with water or moisture.
• Do not attempt to plug the welder into the power source if any part of body or clothing is
moist, or if you are in physical contact with water or moisture.
• Do not connect welder work piece clamp to or weld on electrical conduit.
• Do not alter power cord or power cord plug in any way.
• Do not attempt to plug the welder into the power source if the ground prong on power cord
plug is bent over, broken off, or missing.
• Do not allow the welder to be connected to the power source or attempt to weld if the welder,
welding cables, welding site, or welder power cord are exposed to any form of atmospheric
precipitation, or salt water spray.
• Do not carry coiled welding cables around shoulders, or any other part of the body, when
they are plugged into the welder.
• Do not modify any wiring, ground connections, switches, or fuses in this welding equipment.
• Wear welding gloves to help insulate hands from welding circuit.
• Keep all liquid containers far enough away from the welder and work area so that if spilled,
the liquid cannot possibly come in contact with any part of the welder or electrical welding
circuit.
• Replace any cracked or damaged parts that are insulated or act as insulators such as
welding cables, power cord, or electrode holder immediately.
• When not welding, cut wire back to contact tip or remove electrode from electrode holder.
Noise
Noise can cause permanent hearing loss. Welding processes can cause noise levels that exceed
safe limits. You must protect your ears from loud noise to prevent permanent loss of hearing.
• To protect your hearing from loud noise, wear protective ear plugs and/or ear muffs.
• Noise levels should be measured to be sure the decibels (sound) do not exceed safe levels.
Additional Safety Information
For additional information concerning welding safety, refer to the following standards and comply with
them as applicable.
• ANSI Standard Z49.1 - SAFETY IN WELDING AND CUTTING - obtainable from the
American Welding Society, 550 NW Le Jeune Road, Miami, FL 33126 Telephone (800)
443-9353, Fax [phone] - www.amweld.org or www.aws.org
• ANSI Standard Z87.1 - SAFE PRACTICE FOR OCCUPATION AND EDUCATIONAL EYE
AND FACE PROTECTION - obtainable from the American National Standards Institute, 11
West 42nd St., New York, NY 10036 Telephone (212) 642A900, Fax [phone] -
www.ansi.org
• NFPA Standard 518 - CUTTING AND WELDING PROCESS - obtainable from the National
Fire Protection Association, 1 Batterymarch Park, P.O. Box 9101, Quincy, MA 02269-9101
Telephone [phone] Fax [phone] - www.nfpa.org
• OSHA Standard 29 CFR, Part 1910, Subpart Q., WELDING, CUTTING AND BRAZING
- obtainable from your state OSHA office or U.S. Dept. of Labor OSHA, Office of Public
Affairs, Room N3647, 200 Constitution Ave., Washington, DC 20210 - www.osha.gov
• CSA Standard W117.2 - Code for SAFE TY IN WELDING AND CUTTING. - obtainable
from Canadian Standards Association, 178 Rexdale Blvd., Etobicoke, Ontario M9W 1R3 -
www.csa.ca
• American Welding Society Standard A6.0. WELDING AND CUTTING CONTAINERS
WHICH HAVE HELD COMBUSTIBLES. - obtainable from the American Welding Society, 550
NW Le Jeune Road, Miami, FL 33126 Telephone [phone], Fax [phone] -
www.amweld.org or www.aws.org

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WARRANTY................................................................................................................................................4
SAFETY INFORMATION...............................................................................................................................5
PRINCIPAL SAFETY STANDARDS ............................................................................................................5
CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65 WARNING............................................................................................5
EMF INFORMATION..............................................................................................................................5
PERSONAL PROTECTION ......................................................................................................................6
FIRE PREVENTION.................................................................................................................................7
HIGH FREQUENCY RADIATION.............................................................................................................8
ARC WELDING.....................................................................................................................................8
ELECTRIC SHOCK..................................................................................................................................8
NOISE..................................................................................................................................................9
ADDITIONAL SAFETY INFORMATION....................................................................................................9
TABLE OF CONTENTS................................................................................................................................10
INSTALLATION..........................................................................................................................................11
WELDER SPECIFICATIONS ..................................................................................................................11
SITE SELECTION .................................................................................................................................11
POWER SOURCE CONNECTION ........................................................................................................11
VENTILATION .....................................................................................................................................12
ADDITIONAL WARNINGS...................................................................................................................12
ASSEMBLY................................................................................................................................................12
HANDLE AND WHEELS ASSEMBLY......................................................................................................12
TORCH LEAD AND SPOOL GUN ASSEMBLY ........................................................................................13
GAS CYLINDER AND REGULATOR CONNECTION ...............................................................................13
SHIELDING GAS GUIDE ......................................................................................................................13
WIRE LOADING..................................................................................................................................14
REPLACING THE WIRE LINER...............................................................................................................15
HOW TO CHOOSE THE WIRE LINER FOR DIRECT AND EURO CONNECT TORCHES .............................15
ARRANGEMENT FOR WELDING WITH A SPOOL GUN ........................................................................15
SETTING THE WIRE DRIVE SYSTEM......................................................................................................17
ADJUSTING THE SPOOL POSITION .....................................................................................................17
OPERATION..............................................................................................................................................17
DESCRIPTION .....................................................................................................................................17
WELDER CONTROLS...........................................................................................................................18
THERMAL OVERLOAD PROTECTION....................................................................................................18
TECHNICAL DATA INFORMATION GUIDE ............................................................................................19
WELDING PREPARATION ....................................................................................................................19
FACTORS TO CONSIDER FOR BEST WELDING RESULTS .......................................................................19
ALUMINUM WELDING........................................................................................................................20
MAINTENANCE & SERVICING...................................................................................................................21
GENERAL MAINTENANCE..................................................................................................................21
TROUBLSHOOTING...................................................................................................................................21
WIRING DIAGRAM ...................................................................................................................................24
TOOLS AND SPARE PARTS LIST..................................................................................................................25
PARTS DIAGRAM ......................................................................................................................................26
MIG GUN TORCH SPARE PARTS LIST..........................................................................................................28
USER NOTES ............................................................................................................................................29
Table of Contents

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Table 1. Welder Specifications
Primary (input) volts 230 VAC
Welding Output 270A maximum
Phase Single
Frequency
Rated Duty Cycle 60Hz 60%
Wire Diameter Range Up to 0.045”
BE SURE TO LOCATE THE WELDER ACCORDING TO THE FOLLOWING GUIDELINES:
• In areas free from moisture and dust;
• In areas with ambient temperature between 30° to 90°F;
• In areas free from oil, steam and corrosive gases;
• In areas not subjected to abnormal vibration or shock;
• In areas not exposed to direct sunlight or rain;
• Place at a distance of 12” or more from walls or similar obstructions that could restrict
natural air flow for cooling.
This welder is designed to operate on a properly grounded 230V, 60HZ, single-phase alternating
current (AC) power source fused with a 50A time-delayed fuse or circuit breaker. It is recommended
that a qualified electrician verify the actual voltage at the receptacle into which the welder will be
plugged and confirm that the receptacle is properly fused and grounded. The use of the proper circuit
size can eliminate nuisance circuit breaker tripping when welding.
Do not operate this welder if the actual power source is less than 105 VAC. Contact a qualified
electrician if this problem exists. Improper performance and/or damage to the welder will result if
operated on inadequate or excessive power.
Before you make any electrical connection, make sure that supply voltage and frequency available at
site are those stated in the ratings label of your welder.
The main supply voltage should be within ±10% of the rated main supply voltage. Too low a voltage
may cause poor welding performance. Too high a supply voltage will cause components to overheat
and possibly fail. The welder outlet must be:
• Correctly installed, if necessary, by a qualified electrician;
• Correctly grounded (electrically) in accordance with local regulations;
• Connected to the correct size electric circuit.
NOTE:
• Periodically inspect supply cable for any cracks or exposed wires. If it is not in good
condition, have it repaired by a Service Center.
• Do not violently pull the input power cable to disconnect it from supply outlet.
Installation
Welder Specifications
Site Selection
Power Source Connection

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• Do not lay material or tools on the power supply cable. The cable may be damaged and
result in electrical shock.
• Keep the supply cable away from heat sources, oils, solvents or sharp edges.
• If you use an extension cord, keep it as straight as possible. For lengths up to 50 ft. use 12
AWG. For lengths up to 100 ft. use 10 AWG.
Since the inhalation of welding fumes can be harmful, ensure that the welding area is
effectively ventilated.
FOR YOUR SAFETY, BEFORE CONNECTING THE POWER SOURCE TO THE LINE
CLOSELY FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS:
• An adequate two-pole switch must be inserted before the main outlet. This switch must be
equipped with time-delay fuses.
• The ground connection must be made with a two-pole plug compatible with the above
mentioned socket.
• When working in a confined space, the welder must be kept outside the welding area and
the ground cable should be fixed to the workpiece. Never work in a damp or wet confined
space.
• Do not use damaged input or welding cables.
• The welding torch should never be pointed at the operator or other people.
• The welder must never be operated without its panels attached. This could cause serious
injury to the operator and could damage the equipment.
• Unpack the welder.
• Assemble the plastic top handle using the screws provided.
• Attach the welding torch cable to the threaded connection on the front of the welder.
• Attach the gas hose and the electrical connector.
• Screw the two casters (Fig. 2)(D) to the machine.
• Insert the axle (A) through the holes at the rear of the welder and slide a wheel (B) on to
each end followed by the retaining washers (C).
• Assemble the plastic handle (E) using the screws provided (F).
Ventilation
Additional Warnings
Assembly
Handle and Wheels Assembly

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• Plug the torch hose into the socket on the front of the welder, be careful not to damage the
contacts. Secure by hand screwing in the threaded connection (Fig. 3).
• To connect Spool Gun it is necessary to install also the terminals to the 7 pole connector on
the front of the welder.
Gas Cylinder and Regulator Connection
The gas cylinder (not supplied) should be located at the rear of the welder, in a well-ventilated area
and securely fixed to the work bench or to the wall to ensure that it will not fall.
For safety and economy, ensure that the regulator is fully closed (turned counter-clockwise)
when not welding and when fitting or removing the gas cylinder.
• Turn the regulator adjustment knob counter-clockwise to ensure the valve is fully closed.
• Screw the gas regulator down on the gas bottle valve and tighten.
• Connect the gas hose to the regulator, securing with the clip/nut provided.
• Open the cylinder valve, then set the gas flow to approximately 20 - 35 CFH (cubic ft. per
hour) on the regulator.
• Operate the torch trigger to ensure that the gas is flowing through the torch.
WARNING: Cylinders are highly pressurized. Handle with care. Serious accidents can result
from improper handling or misuse of compresses gas cylinders. Do not drop the cylinder, knock
it over, expose it to excessive heat, flames or sparks. Do not strike it against other cylinders.
Shielding Gas Guide
METAL GAS NOTE
Mild Steel CO2
Argon + CO2
Argon + CO2 + Oxygen
Argon controls spatter
Oxygen improves arc stability
Aluminum Argon
Argon + Helium
Arc stability, good fusion and minimum splatter.
Higher heat input suitable for heavy sections.
Minimum porosity.
Stainless Steel Argon + CO2 + Oxygen
Argon + Oxygen Arc stability. Minimum splatter.
Copper, Nickel & Alloys Argon
Argon + Helium
Suitable for light gauges because of low flowability
of the weld pool.
Higher heat input suitable for heavy sections.
Torch Lead and Spool Gun Assembly

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Wire Loading
Your MIG welder is designed to accept either 8” or 12” wire spools of mild steel, stainless steel or
aluminum according to the type of metal you wish to weld. Wire spools aren’t supplied with the unit
and must be purchased separately.
ENSURE GAS AND ELECTRICAL SUPPLIES ARE DISCONNECTED. Before proceeding,
remove the nozzle and the contact tip from the torch.
• Open the side panel. Loosen the nut (Fig.4) (A) of the spool holder (Position 1) (brake drum).
Remove the spacer (E). In the case you are replacing the wire spool, extract it by pushing the
snap tongue (D).
• Remove the plastic protection from the spool. Place spool on the spool holder. Mount the
spacer again (only for 8” spools) and tighten the lock nut.
Your MIG welder can also accept 4” wire spools. To mount 4” spools:
• Remove the wire spool from the spool holder.
• Loosen the nut, remove the spring and the washer; remove the spool holder from the pivot.
• Insert on the pivot the 4” wire spool; Mount the washer, the spacer and the spring.
• Tighten the lock nut.
TIGHTEN NUT. EXCESSIVE PRESSURE STRAINS THE WIRE FEEDING MOTOR. TOO
LITTLE PRESSURE DOES NOT ALLOW THE WIRE SPOOL TO STOP IMMEDIATELY.
• Loosen and lower the plastic knob (Fig. 5) (A). Release the upper
roll (B) of the feeder. Extract the wire from the torch liner.
• When the wire is disconnected, grasp it with pliers so
that it cannot exit from the spool. If necessary, straighten
it before inserting it in the wire input guide (C). Insert the
wire on the lower roll (D) and in the torch liner (E).
WARNING: Keep the torch straight when feeding a new
wire through the liner. Make sure the wire is cut cleanly
(no burrs or angles) and that at least 1/2” from the end
is straight (no curves). Failure to follow these instructions
could cause damage to the liner.
• Lower the upper roll (B) and place the knob (A). Tighten
slightly. If tightened too much, the wire gets locked and
could cause motor damage. If not tightened enough, the
rolls will not feed the wire. NOTE: When changing the
wire diameter being used, or replacing the wire feed
roll, be sure that the correct groove for the wire diameter
selected is inside, closest to the machine. The wire is

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driven by the inside groove. Feed rolls are marked on the side identifying the groove nearest
that side.
•
Close the side panel of the machine. Connect the power supply cable to the outlet. Turn on the
switch. Press the torch switch. The wire fed by the wire feeding motor at variable speed must
slide through the liner. When it exits from the torch neck, release the torch switch. Turn off
the machine. Mount the contact tip and the nozzle. NOTE: When checking the correct exit of
the wire from the torch do not bring your face near the torch. You may run the risk of being
wounded by the outgoing wire. Do not bring your fingers close
to the feeding mechanism
when working! The rolls, when moving,
may crush fingers. Periodically check the rolls.
Replace them when they are worn and compromise the regular feeding of the wire.
Replacing the Wire Liner
BEFORE PERFORMING THIS PROCEDURE, BE SURE THE GAS SUPPLY LINE AND
INPUT POWER CABLE ARE DISCONNECTED.
• Disconnect the torch from the machine.
• Place it on a flat surface and carefully remove
the brass nut (1).
• Pull the liner out of the hose.
• I nstall the new liner and mount the brass nut (1)
again.
In case you are replacing a Teflon or graphite wire liner,
follow these instructions:
• Install the new liner and insert the wire liner
collet (3) and the O ring (4).
• Mount the brass nut (1).
• Cut the wire liner close to the brass nut.
NOTE: the length of the new wire liner must be the same as the liner you have just pulled out
of the hose.
• Connect the torch to the machine and install the wire into the feeding system.
How to Choose the Wire Liner for Direct and Euro Connect Torches
There are basically two types of wire liners: Steel and Teflon. Steel wire liners can be coated or non-
coated. Coated wire liners are used for air-cooled torches. Teflon wire liners are recommended for
aluminum welding as they allow smooth feeding of the wire.
Arrangement For Welding With a Spool Gun
WARNING: Electric shock can kill! Always turn the POWER switch OFF and unplug the power
cord from the AC power source before installing wire.
Before installing any welding wire into the unit,
the appropriate drive roll must be placed into position
on the wire drive mechanism. Ensure the groove is the
proper shape and size for the wire being used. Adjust
the drive roll according to the following steps:
1. Open the wire drive cover on the spool gun.
2. Remove the drive tension by loosening the
tension adjusting screw and lifting the drive
tension adjustor up, away from the drive

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tension arm. Pull the drive tension arm away from the drive roller.
3. If needed, loosen the tension adjusting screw on the drive tension arm. Pull the drive tension
arm up to allow access to the drive roll within the wire drive system. Rotate the black drive
roll cap counterclockwise and remove it to reveal the metallic drive roll. Pull the drive roll
off its shaft. NOTE: The drive roll has two wire size (.030” and .035”) grooves built into it.
Ensure the corresponding groove and wire size are used. Replace the drive roll onto its shaft
and drive roll cap onto the drive roll.
4. Find the side of the drive roller that is stamped with the same wire diameter as that of the
wire being installed. Push the drive roller onto the drive roller shaft, with the side stamped
with the desired wire diameter facing you.
5. Reinstall the drive roller cap and lock in place by turning it clockwise.
6. Remove the nozzle and contact tip from the end of the gun assembly.
7. Open the wire spool casing, located at the rear of the spool gun, by turning the retaining
knob counterclockwise.
8. Unwrap the spool of wire and find the end of the wire.
9. After checking to make sure that your welder is disconnected from the AC power source, free
the leading end of the wire from the spool, but do not let go of it until told to do so, or the
wire will unspool itself.
10. Using a wire cutter, cut off the bent portion at the end of the wire so that you are left with a
straight section of wire.
11. Unroll about 6” of welding wire from the wire spool.
12. Insert the leading end of the wire into the inlet guide tube (located in the Wire Spool
Casing). Then push it across the drive roller and into the gun assembly about 6”.
13. Line the wire up in the appropriate top groove of the drive roller, then push the drive tension
arm against the drive roller.
14. Flip the quick release drive tensioner back into position on the drive tensioner arm.
15. Tighten (turn clockwise) the drive tension adjusting knob until the tension roller is applying
enough force on the wire to prevent it from slipping out of the drive assembly.
16. Let go of the wire.
17. The welding wire should always come off the top of the spool into the drive mechanism.
NOTE: The purpose of the drive brake is to cause the spool of wire to stop turning at nearly
the same moment that wire feeding stops.
18. Set the Drive Brake tension. NOTE: It is necessary to release the Drive Tensioner Arm while
you are setting the Drive Brake Tension. Make sure you return the Drive Tension Arm to its
locked position after adjusting the Drive Brake Tension.
a) With one hand, turn the wire spool counterclockwise. This will cause the wire to feed
through the gun assembly continue turning it while adjusting the tension on the spool.
b) With your free hand, tighten (turn clockwise) the drive brake adjustment knob.
c) Stop tightening when drag is felt on the wire spool that you are turning. Then stop hand-
turning the wire spool. NOTE: If too much tension is applied to the wire spool, the wire
will slip on the drive roller or will not be able to feed at all. If too little tension is applied,
the spool of wire will want to unspool itself. Readjust the drive brake tension as necessary
to correct for either problem.
19. Trim the wire which is sticking out the end of the spool gun to about 1/2” in length.

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20. Select a contact tip stamped with the same diameter as the wire being used.
21. Slide the contact tip over the wire protruding from the end of the gun.Thread the contact tip
into the end of the gun and hand-tighten securely.
22. Install the nozzle on the gun assembly. For best results, coat the inside of the nozzle with
anti-stick spray or gel.
23. Cut off the excess wire that extends past the end of the nozzle.
24. Replace the wire spool casing cover and tighten adjustment knob by turning it clockwise.
25.
Connect the welder power cord to the AC power source. Turn the welder ON. Set the VOLTAGE switch.
WARNING: Arc flash can injure eyes! To reduce the risk of arc flash, make certain that the
wire coming out of the end of the gun does not come in contact with the work piece, ground
clamp or any grounded material during the drive tension setting process or arcing will occur.
1. Open the wire drive cover on the spool gun
2. Pull the trigger on the gun.
3. Turn the drive tension adjustment knob clockwise, increasing the drive tension until the wire
seems to feed smoothly without slipping.
4. Close the wire drive cover on the spool gun.
5. When set correctly, there should be no slippage between the wire and the drive roller under
normal conditions.
Before you begin welding, you may want to adjust the position of the spool so it is most
comfortable for
you. There are three positions to choose from. To change the position of the spool:
1. With a flat tipped screwdriver, loosen the screw which connects the spool casing to the gun.
2. Pull the casing far enough away from the gun to allow the casing to rotate.
3. Rotate the casing to one of the three available positions, making sure that the grooves on the
gun are aligned with the grooves on the casing.
4. Push the casing and the gun back together.
5. With a flat tipped screwdriver, tighten the screw which connects the spool casing to the gun.
The Forney 270 MIG welder is designed for use on jobs involving maintenance and fabrication. It is
ideal for applications such as farming, automotive, and repairs. This transformer-based machine is
powered from 230 V current and produces 270 A output. The acceptable wire diameters for use on
this machine include .024”, .030”, .035”, and .045”. The spool sizes compatible with this machine
are 4”, 8”, or 12” and should be loading clockwise, so the wire feeds from the top into the wire feeing
system. This machine can weld materials up to 1/2” in thickness.
With welders in the digital series, thanks to a special electronic card it is possible to adjust externally
the main welding parameters. The main purpose of these units is to make adjustment of these
parameters very easy.
The microprocessor control handles the functions of the PC board that are viewed by means of LED’s
while a digital display shows the parameters set and welding current. Units may be used either with the
standard torch (supplied with them) or with the Spool Gun.
Setting the Wire Drive System
Adjusting the Spool Position
Operation
Description

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1. Main ON/OFF switch (green):
19.1
20.4
21.9
23.6
25.7
28.1
31.0
34.6
39.1
45.0
CAT# 319
60
0
0
1
2
3
456
7
8
9
10
140
215
295
370
450
525
600
680
750
11
8
10
9
7
4
6
5
2
13
12
3
1
Lights up when you switch ON the welder on.
2. Welding voltage adjustment knob
3. Auxiliary circuit protection fuse 1 Amp fuse: Do not
replace it with differentcurrent fuses.
4. Wire feed adjustment knob: To increase the wire
speed, turn the potentiometer clockwise; to decrease
the wire speed, turn it counter-clockwise. The same
procedure decreases the values on the welding
parameters. Turn knob slowly.
5. Spot welding time regulation knob:
MIN. 0.4 seconds - MAX. 10 seconds
6. Welding “MODE” selector key: Use these keys to
select the following types of welding:
- 2T: 2 time welding = manual
- 4T: 4 time welding = automatic
- Automatic spot welding with timer
7. B.B.T. ( burn back time): When releasing the torch
trigger the machine will work for a very short time.
This function avoids burning of wire and consequent
wire sticking to the contact tip. By turning the B.B.T.
potentiometer clockwise/counterclockwise with a
screw driver, the wire which is exiting from the torch
at the end of the welding will become shorter or longer.
8. SLOPE: Turning trimmer with a screwdriver to adjust the time necessary for the wire feed
motor to reach the speed that you set through the potentiometer. MIN. slope 0.25 seconds -
MAX. slope 1.6 seconds
9. Overheating indicator (yellow): This LED blinks when unit is overheating. It will light up when
thermostatic protection shut down the machine and will cease blinking only after the machine
has cooled sufficiently to continue welding.
10. Spool gun torch green LED: lights up when the spool gun torch is connected.
11. Display: Allows operator to view the real time weld current. After welding the display will
show the final welding current value for a maximum of 3 seconds.
12. Torch connection
13. 7 poles connection for Spool Gun (optional)
WARNING: If the duty cycle of the welder is exceeded, a thermostat will automatically cut
the power to prevent the machine from overheating. If this should happen do not unplug the
machine while it cools down. The thermostat will automatically reset itself and you can continue
welding. The thermostat is a protective safety device and no harm will normally be done to the
welder unless it is frequently over-loaded, in which case it may eventually become damaged.
Welder Controls
Thermal Overload Protection

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1. Serial number of the unit
2. Welder model
3. Type of characteristic
4. Min. - Max rated No Load Voltage
5. Type of welding
6. Symbol for the main supply and no. of phases
7. Rated value of the supply voltage
8. Code letter for degree of insulation
9. Protection degree
10. Power
11. Size of the necessary main fuse
12. Supply current
13. Welding supply and voltage
14. Power Factor
15. Control range (current / voltage)
16. Reference standard
• Attach the ground clamp to the bare metal to be welded, making sure of good contact;
• Make sure that the wire-roller groove in the roller corresponds to the diameter of the wire
being used.
• Plug the machine into a suitable outlet.
•
Completely open the gas cylinder valve. Adjust the gas pressure regulator to the correct
flow rate.
Some experience is required to adjust and use a MIG welder. In MIG welding two parameters are
fundamental: the welding voltage and the wire speed. The resulting welding current is a result of these
two settings.
• Set the voltage and wire feed controls to positions suitable for the thickness of the material
to be welded. Welding current varies in relationship to wire feed speed. For low welding
current output, the wire feed speed potentiometer should be set at the low end of the wire
feed speed scale. Turning the wire feed speed control potentiometer clockwise will result
in increased wire feed speed and welding current. Welding voltage is adjusted to match
the wire feed speed (welding current). Progressively select higher voltage positions while
increasing wire speed.
Technical Data Information Guide
Welding Preparation
Factors to Consider for Best Welding Results

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Increasing welding voltage leads to a longer arc (without substantially affecting the current).
Conversely, a decreased welding voltage results in a shorter arc (the current again is not substancially
changed). A change in wire diameter results in changed parameters. A smaller diameter wire
requires an increase in wire feed speed to reach the same current. If certain limits are exceeded, a
satisfactory weld cannot be obtained. These are:
A) Feeding wire too fast (too high with regard to the welding voltage) results in pulsing within
the torch. This is because the wire electrode dips into the puddle and cannot be melted off fast
enough.
B) Setting welding voltage to high (too high with regard to the wire feed speed), will result in
excessive and unstable arc. Increase the voltage even higher and the contact tip will burn.
C) Excessive wire speed can be corrected through the arc voltage increase. The limit of this
adjustment depends on the thickness of the material to be welded (a certain limit exceeded
will result in burn through).
Place the torch on the joint you want to weld: the angle between the torch and the nozzle should be
around 45°. The distance between the torch and the work piece should be 5-1/2”. Lower the face
shield and press the torch trigger to start the arc. When the arc has struck, move the nozzle slowly
from left to right along the joint. Adjust the wire feed speed until the arc makes a “crisp” sound
(experience will help you to recognize the right sound).
A) Adjust using the trigger “MODE” key for the desired trigger mode. Press the “MODE” key
until the red LED lights up.
- 2T: two time welding (manual). The welding process starts when the torch trigger is pressed
and stops when this is released.
- 4T: four time welding (automatic). The welding process starts when the torch trigger is
pressed (after a pre-gas time), it continues even if torch trigger is released and stops when this
is pressed and released once again after the post-gas time.
- Spot welding with timer: Automatic spot welder with timer. This process allows execution of
repeated welding beads. The duration is set through the adjustment knob #66.
B) Adjust the wire speed knob #5.
The display can show numbers from 1 to 99 (1 being the minimum value and 99 the maximum value).
The display shows the real welding current and the value of the parameter you selected and adjusted
during the regulation phase. After welding, the display will show the welding current value for a
maximum of 5 seconds.
The machine should be set up for mild steel except for the following changes:
• 100% ARGON as welding protective gas.
• Ensure that your torch is set up for aluminum welding:
• The length of the torch cable should not exceed 10’ (it is advisable not to use longer torches).
•
Install a Teflon wire liner. Follow the instructions for changing the renewing of the wire liner.
• Ensure that drive rolls are suitable for aluminum wire.
• Use contact tips that are suitable for aluminum wire and make sure that the diameter of the
contact tip hole corresponds to the wire diameter that is going to be used.
For aluminium welding or for welding those materials such as CUSI and for applications where the
power source needs to be placed far from the working area the spool gun is particularly suitable. This
torch incorporates a wire feeding motor and the welding wire spool. The potentiometer integrated
on the handle allows constant regulation of wire speed while an internal device in the welder
recognizes and shows the spool gun connection when the green LED on the front of the welder
lights up.
Aluminum Welding