Anyone using a big inverter?

[59bisquik]

I need some advice guys. I came into a couple of bucks and have always wanted to put a welder in my rig. Not wanting one that needs a special alternator or multiple batteries has always kept me from getting one. When I was on the UA, Hobart had a Trek 180 mig that was completely portable. It was a little suitcase unit that even had its own batteries. I have really wanted to get one of those. However they are really expensive and weigh about 50 lbs and have limited time at full output on battery power only.

My other thought was to see if I could get an invertor from Harbor Freight for example and run a cool little welder I already have. Its a Thermal Arc 95 portable unit thats a stick or TIG machine and weighs under 10lbs in its carry case! Its 120V and 20amp, so 2400 watts. If I picked up a 3k watt invertor, I could power this thing and other AC goodies while on the trail or camping.

What do you guys think? WHo has used a large invertor before and any advice? I think the inverter setup would work and there is a HUGE price difference between the two options.

 

[wahlstrom1]

The inverter is gonna take up a lotta space... So are the welders, which is why the underhood welders are so popular.

When you look for an inverter check the duty cycle, I've got a HD one mounted in my work truck for running work lights and computers while I'm working on the linetruck generators. It's HUGE and I was told it was very $$$. Unfortunately how it's mounted and covered keeps me from getting a brand/model for ya.

 

[martin]

A three thousand watt inverter will pull a huge amount of amps. from your battery (or try to). remember I = P/v. A three thousand watt portable generator would be a better alternative, practically and financially.

 

[Ronv]

I agree with Martin above especially since you can get a very quiet one for not too much $$. The new camping ones you can barely hear standing next to them!

RonV

 

[PORTnPOLISH]

I want to upgrade to a under the hoodwelder as I build my rig but I ran a 80 amp flux core unit with a generator many times with no issues. Generators are nice to have all around. My dads truck has the generator and air compressor so we can make easy work o junkyard pickings.

 

[Spott]

Yeah, 2.4kW is 200A at 12V. That's LOTS more than a factory alternator can supply, and I think the largest aftermarket alternators are only just barely adequate. I'd look for a different solution.

Spott