
MIG TROUBLESHOOTING TIPS
Improper wire spool installation
Use wire with a diameter between 0.023” (0.6mm) and 0.035” (0.9mm). Larger diameters draw too much amperage.
Trying to weld single pass on material larger than 3/8” (9.5mm) thick is not possible with this machine. Multi-pass recommended for thicker materials.
Welder should be the only thing plugged into the circuit.
• Usually due to low input power.
• Welder should be only thing plugged into circuit.
• Avoid using extension cords. If one must be used, it must be 3 conductor #12 AWG or larger up to 25 feet.
• Generators must be a minimum 5,000W continuous output with no low-idle function (or low-idle off), 5% THD Max.
Frequently tripping circuit breaker or exceeding duty cycle
Low weld output or poor fusion
Wire from spool to drive should relax with a slight curve after feeding.
• Can cause feed issues and inconsistent weld quality.
• Verify all parts are in the proper place. Refer to manual.
Too much spool tension
Knob set ~2-3 marks
Too little pressure = Roll can slip and feed can
be erratic.
Too much pressure = can crush wire, causing
wire feeding problems and welder damage.
Incorrect drive roll pressure
8” (200mm) wire spool 4” (100mm) wire spool
Trigger must be pulled to initiate the arc. This
will initiate the arc and begin feeding the wire.
DEPRESS THE TRIGGER COMPLETELY
No arc start on contact
• Can cause feed and weld issues and
arc instability.
• Each component must be sized for
wire diameter used.
Mismatched drive roll, liner, or
contact tip size
To ensure maximum quality, always clean
and prepare welding surfaces.
Workpiece Preperation
Connect ground clamp to clean, bare metal. No rust,
paint or other coatings. Attach the ground clamp
directly to the workpiece if you are experiencing issues.
Workpiece grounding
Low weld output or poor fusion
110-120V
208-240V
• Usually due to low input power.
• Welder should be only thing plugged into circuit.
• Avoid using extension cords. If one must be used, it must be 3 conductor #8 AWG.
• Generators must be a minimum 10,000W continuous output with no low-idle function (or low-idle off), 5% THD Max.