Harbor Freight Titanium Flux 125 Welder Thickness Test

Testing out Harbor Freights new Titanium flux 125 welder. I went through the scrap pile and found 18, 16, 14, 11 or 1/8", 3/16", and 1/4" material. Welded it all up. Work great on all some needed some minor adjustments but very pleased with all the suggested settings and functionality. I think this will for for car auto body sheet metal work and skys the limit for what ever other projects you have going on in the garage.
Thanks for watching!

[@-DIYPRO-]

If you want to see what's in side and a setup of the welder check out the link. kzbin.info/www/bejne/aWfIgJyne7JjotU

[@josephgross3638]

what size breaker do you need? 15 or 20?

[@josephgross3638]

what size breaker do you need? 15 or 20?

[@-DIYPRO-]

@@josephgross3638 the higher settings require 20 amp. If you don't need to do the 3/16 then you could get away with a 15 amp.

[@josephgross3638]

@@-DIYPRO-Master ok thanks a bunch. being that this video is a few months old i dint think i was going to get a reply but that helps a lot

[@mattwilkening2969]

Were you using the 120 or the 240?

[@bannablitz247]

You can also bevel the pieces you are welding instead of doing a butt joint and turn it into a v groove and heat or at least warm up the parts with a propane torch. With a relatively steep bevel you could probably do 2 passes and have a nice strong joint even in 1/4 plate. Big structural parts aren't welded in one pass, it gets prepped then typically 2 or more passes depending on size.

[@ysljavale3274]

Agreed. Beveling/grooving will definitely allow you to weld thicker material doing multiple passes to make sure it’s a solid weld 👍🏽

[@willp942]

Correct me if I'm wrong, but if making multiple passes with flux core, you need a wire rated for multi-pass. Most cheap wires are GS rated, meaning single pass only. Layering this wire leads to brittle welds due to too much alloy in the flux. Lincoln Innershield is twice the price of most other wires, but it's rated for multi-pass, just fyi

[@deviantsid18]

Bought this a week ago and in that time I mastered the machine with steel square tubing of various thicknesses and made a lighting fixture and fixed a garage door locking mechanism im very happy with this welder. Today I might weld three gates for my property and my parents

[@TechTimeWithEric]

I've been building sides for my utility trailer with this little beast. Works great for attaching angle iron to square tubing. I caught it on sale for $149, so this thing was a great deal

[@scorpiofor]

I would like to build a utility trailer for my lawn mower. It’s good to hear that you use this for your trailer

[@TechTimeWithEric]

@@scorpiofor I can't stress this enough though. Replace the ground clamp, and get better quality wire. After I ran through the pack in wire; I bought some Lincoln .035 wire; and it is like a completely different machine. It is easier to set up and makes even nicer welds than it did before.

[@billnu]

It’s a handy little unit. How has it held up? I just bought mine for $150. Lot of capacity for that price.

[@TechTimeWithEric]

@@billnuI’ve been running this unit for 4 years. I’m not a professional welder, and I don’t use it daily. But it’s at my uncle’s shop and he uses it more than I do. He’s personally ran 2 spools of wire through it and he likes the machine a lot. He has 2 bigger MIG machines but will usually reach for this one first. I would say it’s holding up well

[@Mike_B_724]

"B.5 to C" "C to C.5" While America and the rest of the world fight over Imperial vs Metric, the Chinese just out here inventing their own alphanumeric system LOL

[@-DIYPRO-]

Haha love it!

[@robertsantiago953]

I know ,. I just bought one of this welders and iam having problems with the set up . It came with a roll of harbor freight flux wire and iam suspecting is a bad quality therefore making my issue more complicated . What wire brand did you use when you did this video ?

[@-DIYPRO-]

@@robertsantiago953 for the test I think I'd used blue devil. I've used the Vulcan wire that HF sales, that stuff is pretty good.

[@ocre78]

@@robertsantiago953 I got this welder and am running some flux core wire from Amazon (brand made in Italy). The setup has not been an issue at all. Use the recommendations to start and it's in the ballpark from there Its been crazy easy to dial in. The Setup should not be an issue at all. I know most of the time, to get the heat on 110v welders the voltage has to be maxed out but this welder is not like that. Start with the recommended setup, you supposed to make sure the metal is clean. But all I have to do is knock off paint, I been welding dirty and bare with no issue. Bare stock with its normal rust, I don't have to clean, welds no problem. It's exceeded my expectations. I would recommend trying some different wire, just to make sure it's not the issue. If you are still having issues, take it back to harbor freight and swap it out. Cause this welder just impresses most people that I have let use it and most ppl with it have nothing but great results. In my opinion, my titanium 125 welder is hands down the best flux core welder I have been around. While the issue you speak of seems pretty rare, there a Reddit post of something similar. They could not get his titanium 125 to weld properly, having issues getting the settings right. Those issues went away after it was swapped out for a new one at harbor freight. I do recommend using better wire, no matter if you return it or not. I promise though, this welder has plenty of heat to do what it's rated for...and then some. I can get over 125amps no problem, just for kicks, trying to get the the max I could, on 035 wire I got up to 135amps on my fluke clamp meter. It's not typical for my purposes though. I don't know your experience but be sure you have the tension set right on the wire feed, the setup book goes thru the method to check, pull the trigger and let the wire hit a piece of wood, it should be a loose as it can be and still bend the wire at a couple inches out. Too tight and the wire feed can be inconsistent and drag. Also the ground clamp needs good connection. It's not the best ground clamp but it certainly connects good enough to not be an issue.

[@allenmckinney9533]

Chinese attempt at bingo.

[@DIYHomesteadProjectsDIYHP10]

Looks like the little Titanium does a pretty good job. I love the size and that it's an inverter welder. Great for size and weight. Thanks for the demo video!

[@kelvis1980]

I've had one for 4 years and it's one of my favorites. Use it more than my Miller

[@connorssmallengines6663]

The flux 125 is super useful at my lawnmower shop. Fixes decks and snowblower housings. Can also patch intakes if they’re steel and exhausts on the riding mowers. Great welder has lasted good too. The only thing I did was upgrade the ground clamp

[@dec23]

Can you answer my question: can you weld stainless steel (forks, spoons, utensils) with this welder?

[@connorssmallengines6663]

@@dec23 yes

[@dec23]

@@connorssmallengines6663 YES! Thank you!

[@ManuelGarcia-ww7gj]

If you grind a 45 degree bevel on one side, you will be able to put in a string and weld it out with multiple passes. Be sure to clean off the slag between passes. You will then have a very solid weld for any thickness of metal.

[@philipgillett603]

Can you explain this to me? Are you suggesting to grind the welding tip at a 45 degree angle? Thanks!

[@ManuelGarcia-ww7gj]

@@philipgillett603 You never grind the tip. You grind the object you are welding. In this case, it has been so long that I am no longer certain of the context in this particular case, you grind whatever it is you are welding to a 45 degree angle. If you are butting two pieces of plate together, then grind both edges of the plate to 45 degrees so that you can then fill the valley with weldment. If you are welding a single piece to existing iron, you bevel the edge of the new piece of steel to 45 degrees so that you will have a notch to fill by melting the rod into it.

[@philipgillett603]

@@ManuelGarcia-ww7gj Oh that makes much more sense. Thank you so much!

[@ManuelGarcia-ww7gj]

@@philipgillett603 You are very welcome.

[@patrickmchenry5525]

I’ve been on the fence regarding buying this model as I’ve never welded before. Finally convinced me that this is the one to get for hobbyists and beginners….excellent vid.

[@-DIYPRO-]

and if you wait until tomorrow I'll be posting my 5 year review video! Yes it's a great welder for beginners.

[@patrickmchenry5525]

@@-DIYPRO- looking forward to the latest review. I’m waiting for a coupon to drop, now that I’ve gone to the HF site a few times (haha, we all know one is coming) then headed to purchase. But definitely want to see what you have to say after 5 yrs.

[@robertblackshear8963]

Dont be fooled by your own doubt. I have welded structural metal projects with the 125 hf welder with great results and good penetration. Any welder that can produce at least 80 amps can weld structural projects. I have done it ac and dc.

[@kayakfishingcountry]

I bought this a few weeks ago and just started using it this past weekend. I just fixed a massive rust hole on an inner fenderwell for a Jeep Cherokee. The battery tray was attached to literally nothing. So, I had to remake a giant patch where the tray once was. I bought a small piece of 22mm stainless steel, cut each piece to small size panels, drill 1/4 inch holes on the edges, and set the voltage at "A" and the wire speed at "3". Worked beautifully. Not bad since I haven't welded anything since 1995.

[@-DIYPRO-]

Nice work!

[@thetacticalfuturist588]

Never saw a flux weld look so good on 1/4 inch. The guy is good..

[@-DIYPRO-]

If you missed the black Friday sale Harbor Freight is extending it through this weekend. Go pick this welder up for $150! Also if you picked one up within this last week for more you can take your receipt in and get refunded the difference.

[@DanBlackRacing]

25% coupon just came out.

[@MazzifLOL]

Fine print on 25% coupon says doesn't apply to welders (among other tools), but Coupon 94104136 (online) will get you 20$ off.

[@Badkitty24]

@@DanBlackRacing coupons don't work for name brand... Or tools anymore. Frigging stupid. Read fine print on coupons. They're all but worthless now.

[@jamesa6272]

Kevin riser Thats what I thought. Whats the point of these stupid coupons if you cant use them on welders, compressors, jacks, etc. It’s like false advertising

[@-DIYPRO-]

You all are correct they have way too many exclusions on their 20% off coupon. But every once in a while the welders themselves will have their own coupons.

[@chvydrptop]

Wish you would have flipped the first weld sample you did to see the back. This things great if it could be dialed down to do 20-22 gauge.

[@veganpotterthevegan]

I've welded 22 gauge fixing body panels on my Z. It's tricky and hard to not warp things. But it's possible

[@johni6138]

I have exact same welder and table and am just learning so the demonstrations helped a lot ty!

[@Pitman556]

What table is this?

[@ernienapier70]

I love inverter welders. I've got a couple of everlast inverter welders and would never go back to transformers.

[@-DIYPRO-]

Agreed!

[@melgross]

Uh oh, the Everlast trolls are here.

[@allenmckinney9533]

I have the Everlast 140st and I like it but the display has been lying to me for awhile. I just make note of where the knob needs to be at.

[@melgross]

David F I suspect that either they are fake posts, in other words, that they are posted by someone who works at Everlast, or that some people are being paid to post it. A problem with some companies such as Everlast is that they give enormous numbers of equipment to You Tubers for free, in return for positive commenting. Any time you see someone on You Tube with a number of welders, particularly if most are from the same manufacturer, you know they got them for free. Same thing even for just one. Often you’ll hear them say, “I just got this ---“. That’s instead of , “I just bought this...”. That’s a giveaway. We’ve been seeing this lately with Evolution metal chop saws. They’ve given a large number away. HTP does that same thing. Some people say they got it for free, but most don’t. Another way to tell is that when they use it, instead of just saying, “let’s do this weld now”, they say, “ I’m going to do this weld with my Everlast EX255Zcp welder-a great machine.” It’s a marketing technique. But in theory, anyone who gets something for free on You Tube is supposed to say so. Same thing if their channel is sponsored. It’s why you see previously unknown brands like Everlast everywhere in a year or so.

[@Uriah625]

Dare I say I have an Everlast 200dv? I am considering this welder too, as a squirt gun comes in handy occasionally.

[@stackhousefabrication7226]

Beveling works wonders on thick stuff.

[@robertblackshear8963]

Yes indeed.

[@ganjajoe420]

Yeah I'm wondering if I bevel a heavy duty operator arm, 1/4 -3/16 arm to a 1/4 wall steel post, if the weld would do good for gate operator installations.

[@ganjajoe420]

I LOVE the fact this welder is ONLY 15 pounds!

[@msk3905]

I was wondering same thing

[@210GotKickz]

This will be my 1st welder that I'm going to learn to weld on. Thanks for the vid I liked seeing the different thicknesses it could do. Time to buy mine and see what I can do. Thanks.

[@autodidacticartisan]

Did you get it and learn to weld? How did you like it? I'm picking one up tomorrow

[@210GotKickz]

@Autodidactic Artisan No I haven't yet unfortunately

[@autodidacticartisan]

@@210GotKickz aww I'm sorry dude. Life is a bitch sometimes.

[@210GotKickz]

@Autodidactic Artisan its all good. Yeah got a new job and gone all week. Home on weekends but of cours wifey wants out the house so no project time as of late.

[@rdeleon0360]

Just got my T easy F 125 today! ($209.) On sale $175. Found hf coupon online 15% off, paid $156. 🙌 can't wait to try it out!

[@-DIYPRO-]

Nice deal!

[@pawisede226fl]

I had one last year and loved it, but I sold it for a profit .then 3 months ago I wanted a wire feed welder again so I bought the Harbor Freight 125 . Today I took it back and traded it in on the Titanium 125 . They are on sale this 3-day sale event for 159.00. This welder and my everlast stick welder is all I need. I love harbor freight just because with the cheap warranty you walk in exchange it with no questions asked . Can you do this at the store you buy from ,most likely they will tell you that YOU must send it off and wait forever until you see it again .A retired person like myself loves Harbor Freight .

[@-DIYPRO-]

I agree their warranties aren't as long but I would take that over having to ship it back somewhere and waiting. My thought is if you are getting a lemon then you'll know about it within the 90 days.

[@stoichiometry147]

I got mine on clearance (returned item) for $85 3 years ago. I’ve been shocked with the performance. Completely welded a 60ft long 5ft tall wrought iron fence with it and tons of automotive stuff. Remember people, as long as the penetration is good and you don’t overheat the part, you can pretty it up with a flap disk. I have people thinking I’m using a higher end MIG on some stuff, but most of my welds looks like the gentleman on the video. And I’m 100% amateur with zero experience prior.

[@-DIYPRO-]

Right on, sweet deal!

[@melgross]

Your welds are pretty good. For 1/4” bevel a 60 degree angle on both ends and first do a hit pass and then a couple of fill passes, one t0% on the hot pass and 50% up the wall, and the other the same on the other side.

[@randymcgee9176]

I just bought this welder.I’ve seen lots of videos and I don’t think it will Disappoint me for what it am going to weld thanks for the great video

[@-DIYPRO-]

Right on!

[@PJ-ee5mc]

This is very helpful. Thank you! I like my HF Titanium 125 welder very much. I think it's a great value. Thus far it has worked very well and I have been able to get all sorts of things done in a variety of different thicknesses. I did buy some high quality Franklin welding wire though. Far less spatter for a cleaner project. Good call on the tip gel. I have the same stuff. I also pre-spray the weld area with this stuff that keeps spatter from sticking: "Weld Aid Nozzle-Kleen". Very important. Yes, you can spray it on the nozzle too but I use the get for the nozzle and this spray for the project area. Great stuff for a clean job at 10 bucks per can but last forever.

[@DavidFloer]

I just bought the Titanium 200 and love it, if I had seen this one, I would have bought it instead! I wanted to learn tig as well, so I think I did the right thing as to buy the 200. A bit more expensive then the 125.

[@elitebowman5386]

Hey David, you need the 200 to be able to weld aluminum right? I would like to buy this 125, but I never know , might want to teach myself to try aluminum.

[@cavemanjoe7972]

@@elitebowman5386 I don't think the 200 has AC, so no, probably not.

[@tacomas9602]

I've been thinking of making a tiny welding truck out of my colorado. 4000w generator, one of these welders and some tools along with an oxy and acetylene torch.....

[@mrMacGoover]

I noticed on the 1/4 plate you pushed the weld, with flux core you should be only dragging it, only when using shielded gas welders and wire that produce no slag or oxides can you push the welds.

[@-DIYPRO-]

Yea I'd already been called on that. You are 100% correct. Flux should always be pulled (side note contrary to what people say it is acceptable to pull or push with mig.) I started out with a flux core welder and learned to drag or pull and was so accustom to that when I got my mig welder that’s all I did. I got called out for not pushing my mig weld and decided to try it and ended up really liking pushing the mig. Well life story in a nut shell this machine I’m back to flux and should be dragging but as you can tell in the video I did both!

[@mrMacGoover]

@@-DIYPRO- concerning your side note, flux core wire feed welding machines are not M.I.G. welding machines, (mechanised-inert-gas) machines better built machines capable of running gas shielded wire or flux based wire and when run with shielded gas can be run with a variety of techniques. That said the same does not apply to the very basic wire feed flux core welding machine in this video that does not have gas shielding abilities and who's method is limited to the dragging method and shouldn't be referenced as a mig machine.

[@-DIYPRO-]

@@mrMacGoover again I agree 100%. I don't think I ever mentioned this machine was a MIG welder if so I did not mean it.

[@terryfrye4552]

Thanks for the video. I really think I'm going to buy this welder for my first welder since I'm still new to welding and don't really need a big expensive one. Right now, I need a welder so I can restore my vintage race car trailer from a family friend and my 86 chevy shorty van

[@-DIYPRO-]

Did you end up getting one, how has it been for you?

[@krispytoast8804]

This welder is good for beginners, I’ve been welding for 2 days and I can stick 3/16 steel together pretty nice with this. I got a better ground clamp tho

[@-DIYPRO-]

Right on!

[@ganjajoe420]

Upgraded ground clamp would be ideal and make a more proficient arc

[@elfpimp1]

I like Cooter Snot tip gel.. It can also be applied to your weld surface with a cloth to reduce bead stick.. Hehe, Cooter snot...

[@-DIYPRO-]

That's a good one to just say 10 times fast.

[@khizershareef5076]

hey there do you think this welder would work to weld my motorcycle frame? I am trying to weld few metal tabs to the frame for seat support and also weld broken frame of my motorcycle. I would really appreciate your reply.

[@truemenimprovedaily]

Absolutely

[@BikerBenny]

Broke the kick stand mount on my 93 Honda xr650l. It ripped a pretty good sized hole in the frame. Its about 16ga steel tubing think Im gonna get this weilder from Arbor Freight practice than try and repair. Great review video

[@-DIYPRO-]

Right on!

[@999benhonda]

Ive been using a $80 stick welder...gets the jobs done but looks bad and takes more time to get a bead started. I think I will get the Titanium Flux welder when they go on sale.

[@-DIYPRO-]

If you have only ever sick welded this will take some getting use to but you'll probably never go back!

[@taynemccloud8283]

Do you think this would be sufficient for motorcycle frame repair?

[@robertemmons2260]

Awesome review! I've been thinking of upgrading my HF little black box, but I don't use a welder enough to justify the cost. Might still be well worth it though. I'm a big fan of using welder gel, especially on machines that use a flux core wire. One thing that I have noticed when welding is that if a magnet remains attached or is in the immediate proximity to my weld, the magnet creates more of a weld distortion, as though the weld current is interacting with the magnetic field of the magnet. I'll use the magnets to set a tack weld, but I'll remove the magnet once the pieces have been set.

[@-DIYPRO-]

I if you are on the fence it's on sale right now for $159. That's the cheapest I've seen it.

[@robertemmons2260]

@@-DIYPRO- yep, I had seen that too. I'm subscribed to email and app alerts, and it is awfully tempting.

[@Uriah625]

That is called arc blow. Is common on D/C machines, even without magnets present. A/C units negate that effect.

[@INKJAX]

spend the extra money !! you wont be dissapointed ! these little machines are 500% better than the c/h - h/f cheapy... night and day difference !

[@osbaldohernandez9174]

For 200$ or 176$ on sale 30% off it’s a good little machine for home projects or anyone that wants to do welding for a starter

[@-DIYPRO-]

Agreed!

[@idleford]

In the places I’ve been that if you are welding then it’s “spatter” not “splatter”. Paint splatters, weld spatters. It doesn’t matter to me but I’ve seen a lot of welders take digs at those that don’t say it correctly.

[@-DIYPRO-]

I've actually caught myself saying it splatter and I can't remember who I learned it from, if you watch my later videos you'll see I've starting calling spatter!😁

[@idleford]

I still catch myself doing it lol

[@timdysart6860]

havent tried it myself but was told the wire you get with it is junk and that little would do a lot better with some quality wire

[@-DIYPRO-]

I agree with the older HF wire but i haven't had any issues with the new Vulcan wire, it's probably all still made in the same factory but so far so good.

[@Some_person.]

Would you recommend this for building a go kart?

[@roadsideprophet2012]

I watched this video while I was hitting the duty cycle 😂 sorry I couldn't resist

[@ls1_cammeroh]

kickin' chicken Ha exactly what I’m doing

[@ironranger1]

I ended up folding when I was in my local HF store and bought this few weeks after it had released. Current usage must be low cause it runs off my extension cord that I have running to my shop. (Don't real power run out to it yet) and it also works on the low side when hooked to my 2000 Predator generator. I'd think if hooked to a bigger generator this thing wouldnt even care. Picked it up for my blacksmithing adventures. Liking it so far.

[@-DIYPRO-]

Good to know it will at least run on the generator.

[@daddydawg1902]

Nice clip and great explanations. Almost have everything I need to start my first weld! Still need to run a dedicated 20 amp circuit and Buy/make a welding table. Mine is the HF Chicago Electric Flux 125 but there seems too be little difference. Tip- on your Camera.. If you have a manual focus mode it will stop the fluctuations in focus when you change targets. In Auto-focus the camera is not sure what to focus on.. thus the fluctuations! Take care and thanks for your efforts!

[@-DIYPRO-]

Thanks!

[@luciankristov6436]

It looks like you get 50% penetration with 1/4 that's actually not that bad. You could do an industry standard by welding both sides. That's full penetration. Not a bad rig

[@UNSC011001]

That weld you pointed out that looked the best is because you pulled the gun towards you instead of pushing

[@robertdickey3570]

If there is slag then you need to drag.

[@abhilashm2147]

Is that the harbor freight welding table??

[@-DIYPRO-]

Yes it is.

[@samsgarage1716]

Great video.I just bought the same one and can’t wait to use it.

[@-DIYPRO-]

I still use mine, still love it.

[@chrismalone2724]

If I made passes on both sides, would it be strong enough to hold my build-a-bumper kit together? 3/16 steel bumper

[@-DIYPRO-]

Should be able to do 3/16" single pass no problem.

[@chrismalone2724]

Awesome, thank you for the response

[@yerwrng]

The amico 130 offers dual voltage and is rated for 1/4 inch . It is just under $200 shipped off eBay . There are cheaper inverter style 130 amp flux welders but they don't offer wire speed and voltage control but they are as cheap as $130 . I do have an amico inverter stick that for $99 has held up very well ...lol... if you're going to buy china-co may as well cut out the middle man at the harbor freight and go straight to Flea-bay

[@robertgorge1152]

Good welding job.i want to try one like your welding project.

[@-DIYPRO-]

Right on!

[@waynebeck7801]

On the 1/4 inch weld it looks like you were pushing instead of dragging.

[@-DIYPRO-]

I probably was, i switch between MIG and Flux too much!

[@jlippencott1]

I think you should cut the welds open to see what kind of penetration you have, at least on the thicker coupons.

[@-DIYPRO-]

I'm going to start doing some cut and etch testing. Show what the weld really looks like.

[@tractormantp2113]

Yeah I’m leaning towards getting one of these I have another one that’s similar to the I guess ,the 90 / 130 Chicago electric I’ve had a couple of them and they just don’t run consistently I mean one minute you have fire at the sticking next second it skips a little and then you have some more and it skips and it just is very uneven wells with that but I’m either going to get the titanium and give that a try from my new project or really would like a Lincoln but money is always the factor you know I don’t use it every day for business anymore I just use it as a hobby

[@-DIYPRO-]

Perfect for hobby use.

[@tractormantp2113]

Mech Master Yep I don’t use them too much anymore but I got a build a few little things around here once in a while and fix the trailer once in a while if I was having to weld three eights and a half inch steel how much tractors I have that 200 amp mig or 180 amp at least

[@ganjajoe420]

Do you think this welder would do good at simple gate operator installations? I do a lot of 1/4 - 3/16 operator arms to 1/4 wall posts. Do you think the weld for that would hold an operator arm to a steel post like that? I LOVE the fact it's only a 15lb welder!

[@-DIYPRO-]

If it's 1/4" or smaller than yes, just make sure you have some practice pieces first!

[@ganjajoe420]

@@-DIYPRO- thanks for your input. Won't ever really do anything thicker than 1/4 wall.

[@skars_8]

Can this be used to weld on shock mounts or bag brackets for a truck

[@-DIYPRO-]

Yes, as long as they are 3/16" or thinner!

[@fbodyblack]

You my friend just saved me 1400 bucks

[@johnsavoy980]

How is it for build up work, I rework shafts where thhe bearing has worn the shaft, also would a stainless wire be available

[@-DIYPRO-]

Build up would depend more on the wire you are using, make sure it's a multi pass wire. I haven't done much with SS so can't help on that end.

[@johnsavoy980]

@@-DIYPRO- I lost my welder in the last hurricane never did much wire welding,hardly any.Mine were stick, looked at some at harbor frieght, and a tig at a local welding supply. Being retired and almost 70 a gas mig/tig is not economically feasable. Past 5 years just brought projects to a local weld shop, However it would be more profitable to me to do the welding in house again,since I don't get as many build up jobs these days,

[@alexcornejo2162]

Would this be good for a beginner for reference I really wanna build my own electric go kart but am going to need a welder to make the frame any suggestions?

[@-DIYPRO-]

This would be perfect to learn on.

[@jpinazo31]

Hi, I’m new in welding. Can I weld both 3/8 inch plain steel round rod to a T-shaped? What wire speed and voltage should I use? Thanks

[@JerryEly]

Hi what extension cord can I use what gauge

[@-DIYPRO-]

I have the 10 ga. 25ft. from HF and it runs great on it.

[@dorothykoehler9830]

Does it ark even when you don't pull the trigger. I like when the ark with trigger pull only.

[@-DIYPRO-]

Only when the trigger is pulled.

[@RidingWiithJacob]

Sweet just what I wanted to know, if I could weld a go cart frame!

[@nathandensmore2837]

Easily

[@induceoversteer]

Mine does fine on thicker stuff. Anything over 14g. Anything thinner it’s just too hot.

[@-DIYPRO-]

Yea you really have to be moving on the thinner stuff.

[@jondoe6618]

Usually one would not weld sheet metal all the way to 1/4 in with the same size wire. What size were you using, and will it handle different size wire? Great video!

[@-DIYPRO-]

Agreed, for the thicker material it would be better to use 0.035". From the 18ga to 3/16" I stuck close to the settings under the lid using 0.03". Since there are no suggested settings for 1/4" and i already had 0.03" in the machine i stuck with that.

[@rjd8434]

I was taught that if you’re flux core welding that you should pull your welds. If you push your weld you will be welding over the slag that flux core produces. But I see people pushing their flux core welds pretty regularly on these you tube channels. But I’m certainly not an expert and I don’t believe most people on you tube are either.

[@-DIYPRO-]

You are 100% correct. Flux should always be pulled (side note contrary to what people say it is acceptable to pull or push with mig.) I started out with a flux core welder and learned to drag or pull and was so accustom to that when I got my mig welder that’s all I did. I got called out for not pushing my mig weld and decided to try it and ended up really liking pushing the mig. Well life story in a nut shell this machine I’m back to flux and should be dragging but as you can tell in the video I did both!

[@rjd8434]

Yeah I did notice you used both methods and you did weld lay down some nice beads with that little machine. I just ordered the titanium 170 but having seen what you did with that 125 I probably could’ve got by with that 125. Thanks for the demo.

[@robertblackshear8963]

You actually can weld structural with some of these small machines with multiple passes.

[@-DIYPRO-]

Yes but I wouldn't suggest that to any newbie.

[@robertblackshear8963]

@@-DIYPRO- Lol. I agree lol.

[@kimuseni]

Thanks

[@philos212]

Can this be used to weld steel tubes to a trailer to reinforce? 12 gauge tubes. Great video and thanks!

[@-DIYPRO-]

Yep, that is less than 3/16" so you should be good.

[@philos212]

@@-DIYPRO- Thanks for answering my question.

[@bryanroupe8646]

I just bought this welder yesterday. Never welded a day in my life but watched a ton of videos. After I would start running a bead it would just intermittently cut out. Any idea why ? I used all different types of stock. Even went to lowes and bought some 1/8 ms flat stock and it was better but still was cutting out.

[@-DIYPRO-]

I've only had that happen when I don't have a good ground connection. Is the metal clean and your ground clamp have a good connection on a clean piece? If so and it's still happens you may have a lemon.

[@wcjcnc]

Bryan Roupe Take the ground clamp off and throw it in the trash where it belongs. Go to Harbor Freight and buy the heavy duty ground clamp. Also get some Lincoln wire. The wire that comes with it is crap.

[@thefirewooddoctor]

Since the 8in/10# spools won't fit this welder, am doubtful I'll replace my HF flux-core 90 with this Titanium 125.

[@-DIYPRO-]

You must weld a lot of you'll only use a 10lb spool. How is the 90 holding up? Have you had to replace any parts on it yet?

[@thefirewooddoctor]

@@-DIYPRO-, when it comes to flux-core, the wire flies out the tip of the mig gun. Haven't used my HF 90 a lot, but a friend of mine has. His fan is conking out after at least 50# of wire. Saved himself a fortune on those odds and ends jobs alone by welding it himself to buy a really nice welder. Love2boat92 is the channel, he swears by the HF 90.

[@thefirewooddoctor]

@@-DIYPRO-, mainly because the 10# spool is a lot cheaper than the 2# spool is why I prefer the bigger one.

[@skoue4165]

The reasons to get this over the 90 is #1 this one is DC and will have a lot less splatter and better looking welds generally. #2 this one properly cuts power to the tip when you are not pulling the trigger so the chances of an accidental flash or just plain getting jolted are far less. The 90 worked for what I needed it for and I got it really cheap but it is kind of a POS IMHO. So I am replacing the 90 with this one.

[@thefirewooddoctor]

@@skoue4165, my approx 3yr old Chicago Electric 90amp flux-core welder, predecessor to the 125amp version, has a "cold tip" that is only on when the trigger is squeezed. Picked up a slightly used Chicago Electric 170amp mig/flux welder for $100. Heavy pig, almost as heavy as my Everlast MTS 211si. LOL, got that cheap sucker to do flux-core on thicker stuff outside instead of stick welding things.

[@michaelpotter3638]

I have been looking at this type of welder to use for welding plates on car doors for demo derby.. I have no experience with welding. But would this work? I have heard this ones don't use gas?

[@battlecreekknives]

Haven't welded since high school many years ago, looking at this welder for various things but primarily for auto rust repairs... can you mod this to accept a bottle? The clean up on the 18ga didn't look bad at all but again you have lots of experience... would you reccomend for mostly sheetmetal or is there another I model on the cheap I should be looking at?

[@-DIYPRO-]

I think by the time you do the mods you'd be better off getting the titanium 140 which can dip mig. Another cheaper welder that is great for auto body is the Eastwood 135.

[@NachoTV]

Where'd you get the gel stuff for the nozzle? (Novice here)

[@-DIYPRO-]

It's called nozzle gel. Either online or a welding supply shop.

[@NachoTV]

@@-DIYPRO- thanks for the tip.. looking forward to making cool things

[@alcopower5710]

@@-DIYPRO- is it also called tip dip?

[@scotto8199]

Is that how welders are rated? How far the weld can penetrate the crack of the material?

[@-DIYPRO-]

Usually they are rate off the functions and how high amperage it can go. Which is a sense is how thick of material it can weld.

[@carlos.75]

Very informative thank you

[@-DIYPRO-]

Thanks!

[@Mroswaldo16]

Try welding aluminum with it using the aluminum wire & eating up the aluminum see if it welds good without gas. But for metal i think im going to get one! Before they sell out

[@-DIYPRO-]

It doesn't. I've tried doing aluminum with a flux core machine. It just balls up and doesn't even stick to the piece. I guess the alum. spool gun is not a scam!

[@Mroswaldo16]

@@-DIYPRO- doesnt the spool run with gas? Have you trued heating it upp to helo it stick?

[@Mroswaldo16]

@@-DIYPRO- & got my self one yesturday, still in box. Need the helment before i test it out or use it.. kinda excuted tho lol all lincoln welders for sale local here were gone. Hope this one works good.

[@Blood1UTUBE]

what size fuse does the outlet for this need to be in order for it to work right? How many amps does it pull?

[@-DIYPRO-]

If you want to be able to go maxed out full dial then you'll need a 20 amp breaker.

[@jiujitsuforall8627]

I've never welded but I'm interested in learning and I've been considering this welder from HF. Could this unit to exhaust or is it too powerful? Sorry if this question is dumb, but I know nothing about welding or welders. Thanks.

[@jasonholloway2476]

It can weld exhaust, but don't just think you can pick this up and start welding right away. Practice, practice, and just when you think you're good enough, practice some more on scrap metal. Never go right into a project of value. You need to learn proper Contact-tip-to-work distance, holding the gun steady and at the right angles, wire speed, voltage, and getting good ancillary equipment (auto darkening helmet, good gloves, and other PPE). Source: I own a Titanium 125, my own experience, never welded prior. Good luck!

[@jeeshuamessengerful]

Did he push the last weld? I am new to welding and I was told you have to drag flux core?

[@-DIYPRO-]

You are correct, I had learned dragging with a cheap flux welder. Picked up a mig and was converted to pushing and usually forget when I'm switching back and forth.

[@cadewarnke3715]

Would this be okay to weld axle brackets on? Does it penetrate enough and have enough strength to hold up for daily driving?

[@-DIYPRO-]

That depends on the thickness of the brackets and your welding ability. If less than 3/16in. Then yes. If this is going to be your first welding job please consult an expert.

[@junemcw]

Were u using 15A or 20A supply? Supposed to b 20A. Just wondering if u could get by with 15A? Or has anyone tried? Thanks, junemcw

[@-DIYPRO-]

both, my garage has a 15 and a 20. I can get away with using the 15 on Lower settings but if it's maxed out it needs the 20 amp.

[@Alpha-to9od]

I just bought that welder but i got extra flux wire .035 instead of .030 (silly me ) what is the difference other then the thickness..?

[@-DIYPRO-]

It will shift your settings a little to the high side. You won't be able to do really thin stuff.

[@Alpha-to9od]

@@-DIYPRO- thank you.

[@olbear9984]

Great Vid. Fixing to buy one.

[@-DIYPRO-]

Right on!

[@ryy597]

What were your setting for 16 gauge? Seems the recommended settings are a bit on the hot side. When you blowed thru, which setting did you back off?

[@-DIYPRO-]

That is an older video so I can't remember. I did more of an updated one here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fGXIg4t7bp6XpMk I actually put the settings I used in that video.

[@ryy597]

@@-DIYPRO- thanks for replying. I found your recent video even more helpful!

[@jakeangelini9470]

Im looking into buying this to start making my own stainless steel exhaust, do you recommended this for an entry level welder? Thanks

[@-DIYPRO-]

Never done stainless, let me know how it turns out.

[@cavemanjoe7972]

Don't buy this welder to do stainless exhaust. You don't want to use a flux only machine to do stainless. Get a TIG.

[@seanyoung7184]

It specifically says on the box to not use on stainless steel.

[@skoue4165]

You need to get a different type of welder to do stainless. TIG is a good choice for what you want. The reason you can't/ shouldn't do stainless is that the mild steel of the wire will pollute the stainless and the welds and the area around them will rust. You could weld stainless it just won't be stainless after you weld it.

[@cavemanjoe7972]

@@skoue4165 It's not that; you can Mig stainless, you just need a better welder and a spool gun to run gas shielded stainless wire.

[@williandepauw5395]

Is the wire hot without the trigger being pulled

[@-DIYPRO-]

No, flux core set up is DCEN, electrode negative. In other words the ground clamp is the positive and the wire is negative.

[@williandepauw5395]

@@-DIYPRO- What I was trying to ask, if you touch something with the wire before you pull the trigger will it spark or does it only become live when you pull the trigger?

[@nickbrink4114]

Weld the 1/4 uphill I guarantee it will penetrate great, fluxcore runs pretty hot to begin with

[@-DIYPRO-]

Next up 1/4" uphill!

[@schumannwillie7]

I wonder if you could use it from iverter power?

[@-DIYPRO-]

You'd be loosing a bunch of efficiency but it can be done!

[@iplaymytele]

This is so much easier to use than my Lincoln stick welder…., it’s easier to just dial in the thickness of metal I want not having to change rods…!

[@-DIYPRO-]

Yep much easier to make the jump from stick to wire.

[@iplaymytele]

@@-DIYPRO- ...AMEN..

[@WildfoxFabrication]

very cool I will probably get a Titanium 125 when I get good at the big Chicago 125 (I think I'm first too!)

[@cj7girl280]

Do you think this would be a good welder to build a transmission crossmember? Thanks for your review. 😊

[@-DIYPRO-]

How is your welding ability? If the member sizes are less than 3/16" and carbon steel then yep it will work.

[@cj7girl280]

@@-DIYPRO- Hmm.. I ended up buying the welder on sale and welded up 2"x2" 3/16" square tubes to 1/4" plates. It seemed to work fine. But time will tell. Hope it fully penetrated the two metals together. Looks like it did. 😉 Thanks for your response.

[@jeremiah6398]

Recommend for pipe welding?

[@jm351]

Titanium is like finding a unicorn. Good luck.

[@-DIYPRO-]

My local store had some this weekend. Maybe I'd better go back and pick them up. Good food storage!

[@jamesa6272]

Will this welder work for mild steel exhaust tubing? The harbor freight 90 amp welder I have burns right through it. Was wondering if this would work for mild steel exhaust tubing/connectors

[@-DIYPRO-]

Yes, the settings go lower than the old 90amps. If you are going to do a lot I would suggest the 140 so you can mig it!

[@jamesa6272]

Just picked one up today. I don’t do alot. Just some exhaust here and there. I put on the heavier ground clamp and I use lincoln electrics .35 flux core wire. Changed the tip to .35 also. Didn’t use it much yet but so far it worked good on a piece of exhaust connection

[@MrBluesluver]

Great video. Very informative for those of us that are thinking about getting this welder. I do have a question, though. I used to be a shop welder in the oil field, so I have had some experiance with a Lincoln hot box and a little MIG. So the question I have is do you think this would be ok for 1x1 to 1 1/2x 1 1/2 inch square tubing? I am thinking about a camper shell for my Ford Ranger, as I haven't been able to find a good used one. The longest drive I'd probably make would be 100 miles or less. The tubing would be a frame work.

[@-DIYPRO-]

As long as the material thickness is less than 3/16" It will be great. If you are doing a bunch of welding like a camper shell and more you may want to spend the extra and get the titanium 140, doing mig will save you a lot of clean up time. or wait till it goes on sale or wait til they have a liquidation parking lot sale, and get an open box one which they usually have at the HF by me.

[@MrBluesluver]

@@-DIYPRO- Thanks for the info. My main problem is that I only have a 120v outlet. I was looking at the 140, though. I am retired & have more time than money.

[@-DIYPRO-]

@@MrBluesluver both are 120v only!

[@MrBluesluver]

@@-DIYPRO- Might have to save up a bit longer & do the 140, then. Thanks again for the info.

[@hjkjccdggjhvb]

what do u mean u don't trust this machine to weld stuff together if your life depends on it , i weld a whol go cart with this welder and it's going strong ...

[@61faj]

I need to weld new Floor pan braces on my 1997 jeep wrangler, these mount underneath the floor pan, so I would have to Weld them underneath the jeep, all of your Welding samples with this particular welder from Harbor freight Are done on a table with the welder being above the material being welded, have you done any testing welding underneath the material such as this job I have to do with the jeep? I’d love to see how well it works in this situation before I buy this welder. Any information on this would be much appreciated. Thanks, Jim

[@curve5746]

This thing will do great. It is amazing

[@californiaprofile]

Do you just plug this into regular 15amp wall socket

[@-DIYPRO-]

15a works for the lower settings if you want to go full dial you'll need a 20 amp breaker.

[@brysontrotman5865]

Do you think this welder will work for an overlapping 20 gauge on 20 gauge welding for floor pans?

[@-DIYPRO-]

With how well it for with the 18ga I think it'll do just fine with 20ga.

[@mediumjumbo7484]

These are gr8 lil welders. I do need to get some tip jel though ;)

[@-DIYPRO-]

It's helps out a lot!

[@paulwhelan3228]

Does anyone have a part number for replacement contact tips for this welder? HFT doesn't list any in their catalog.

[@garycooper7553]

Lincoln parts fit. Can be found at any home depot etc