Unleash Your Inner Welding Warrior with Miller Extreme Suitcase Welder!

Unleash Your Inner Welding Warrior with Miller Extreme Suitcase Welder!

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. The Need for a Big Wire Feeder
3. Troubleshooting the Set of Rollers
4. Swapping Rollers for the Bigger Feeder
5. The Benefits of Using 50 Pound Wire Rolls
6. Comparing the APS and 12VS Wire Feeders
7. The Convenience of the APS Wire Feeder
8. The Drawbacks of Carrying the APS in the Field
9. Using the APS as a Backup
10. Fitting the APS Wire Feeder in the Truck
11. Potential Solutions for Improving Airflow

Introduction:

In this article, we will discuss the process of changing from a small wire feeder to a big wire feeder for welding purposes. We will also address some common challenges encountered during the process and explore the advantages and disadvantages of using different wire roll sizes. Additionally, we will compare and contrast two wire feeder models, namely the APS and 12VS, and examine their practicality in the field. Lastly, we will provide tips on fitting and transporting the wire feeder in a truck for ease of use.

The Process of Changing Wire Feeders

The Need for a Big Wire Feeder:

One of the main reasons for changing the wire feeder is the unavailability of small wire rolls. As the writer mentions, they have two or three 50-pound rolls of wire and no five or ten-pound rolls. This necessitates the use of a big wire feeder specifically designed to handle larger wire rolls. By switching to a big wire feeder, the writer can make use of the available 50-pound wire rolls instead of having to buy more small rolls.

Troubleshooting the Set of Rollers:

A problem arises when one of the set of rollers in the wire feeder seems to be worn out or maladjusted, causing difficulty in feeding the wire. The writer suspects that prolonged use or improper adjustment may have contributed to the premature wear of the rollers. To resolve this issue, the writer needs to remove the faulty rollers and replace them with a set that is functioning properly. This replacement is crucial to ensure smooth wire feeding when using the big wire feeder.

Swapping Rollers for the Bigger Feeder:

To successfully use the big wire feeder, the writer needs to transfer the functional set of rollers from the small feeder to the bigger one. The big wire feeder is designed to accept the 50-pound wire rolls that the writer intends to use for the job. This switch ensures that there is enough wire to complete the task at hand without the risk of running out.

The Benefits of Using 50 Pound Wire Rolls:

Using larger wire rolls provides several advantages to the writer. Firstly, they roll through at a faster rate, which is beneficial for fieldwork. Secondly, the convenience of carrying them in the side toolbox of the truck enhances portability and ease of access. However, it is important to note that the weight and size of the big wire feeder can be cumbersome, as experienced by the writer while humping it on a railroad job. Despite this drawback, the writer states that the benefits outweigh the inconvenience.

Comparing the APS and 12VS Wire Feeders:

In the article, the writer introduces two different wire feeders, namely the APS and the 12VS. The APS is favored for fieldwork due to its lightweight design compared to the 12VS. Although both wire feeders have digital readouts, the writer does not find them necessary for adjusting welding settings. Instead, the writer relies on sound and visual cues to determine the proper settings. Ultimately, the choice between the two wire feeders depends on personal preference and the specific requirements of the job.

The Convenience of the APS Wire Feeder:

The APS wire feeder, with its ability to accommodate small spools of wire, is deemed convenient for field usage. It can be easily carried and stored in the truck's side toolbox, making it accessible whenever needed. Its lighter weight is a major advantage, especially when working on remote job sites that require mobility. However, the writer notes that the APS wire feeder also has its limitations.

The Drawbacks of Carrying the APS in the Field:

While the APS wire feeder offers portability, the writer highlights that carrying it in the field comes with challenges. The weight of the fully loaded wire feeder, around 45 to 50 pounds, can be tiring and potentially cause physical strain. The writer recounts a personal experience of throwing their back out while humping the wire feeder on a railroad job. Despite this inconvenience, the writer has chosen to use the 50-pound wire rolls with the big wire feeder due to current stock availability.

Using the APS as a Backup:

To ensure contingency plans in case of any issues with the big wire feeder, the writer decides to carry the APS wire feeder as a backup. Although it may not be the primary tool used for the job, having a backup eliminates potential downtime and ensures uninterrupted workflow. The writer emphasizes the importance of being prepared for unexpected situations in the field.

Fitting the APS Wire Feeder in the Truck:

The writer provides a demonstration of how the APS wire feeder fits into the truck. Although it is a snug fit, it requires minor adjustments to prevent kinking of the inert gas hose. The writer suggests the need for a 90-degree fitting with a bevel-headed inert gas fitting to facilitate better airflow and eliminate kinking issues. This modification would improve the functionality of the wire feeder and eliminate the hassle of potential kinks in the gas hose.

Potential Solutions for Improving Airflow:

The writer acknowledges that over time, the gas hose may become kinked and hinder airflow. Regular cleaning of the filter at the back of the machine helps remove dirt and debris that may accumulate due to the quick-connect setup. Additionally, the writer expresses interest in acquiring a 90-degree fitting with an inert gas fitting, expressing a need for assistance in locating such a specialized component.

Highlights:

1. Changing from a small wire feeder to a big wire feeder for welding purposes.
2. Troubleshooting and replacing worn-out or maladjusted rollers.
3. Using 50-pound wire rolls instead of smaller rolls.
4. Comparing the APS and 12VS wire feeders for fieldwork.
5. Portability and convenience of the APS wire feeder.
6. Challenges of carrying the APS wire feeder in the field.
7. Importance of having a backup wire feeder.
8. Fitting and adjusting the APS wire feeder in the truck.
9. Potential solutions for enhancing airflow and preventing kinks in the gas hose.