Newbie needs some info, Please

[68Duece]

Hi,
I'm a welding student and I just bought a Lincoln AC-225-S. Is this a good welder? I'm not sure how old it is but I think its about 15 yrs old. It looks to be in excellent shape and the man I am buying it from said I can definitely try it out first. I won it on EBay for $90. So I own it regardless. I found some info online but I was hoping for more personal experiences. I mostly want it to practice at home when I'm not at school or work. Would that be possible in a non heated garage in PA in the winter? I don't mind the cold but will the machine handle it?
Thanks in advance,
Brian

[Rocky D]

Sure you can practice in a cold garage...as a rule of thumb your metal should be above 50° before welding...preferably 70° tho...that said, you will see however guys welding without preheating in the winter out there. I don't have a problem with that out here, on the left coast. :D The machine can handle it, so not to worry.

[Hotfoot]

That's a good machine, '68. Just never let anyone switch the amps while you are welding...that kills them! Its a classic. Does your garage have adequate wiring for it? Also, I hope its a local pickup, or shipping will kill you!:)

[Critter]

When welding light metal I use a propane torch to preheat a little, lots easier to strike her up.

[MAC702]

A whole lot of America has been built with one of those. I see them throughout South America, too. Just darn-near indestructible. Enjoy it!

What's this preheating steel all about? Wait, first question: What's a "winter"? :p

[Critter]

Some days I wish I dint know what winter was, Mn gets cold! I been noticing with mine that when she only wants to spark a little, I can preheat and she arcs like a pro! Wasn't like that in the summer. most of mine is low amp settings, like 40. Well, sometimes up to 60.