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Lincoln Engine Driven Welders

Lincoln Engine Driven Welders FAQs

Straight answers to the questions people ask most when choosing and using an engine driven welder generator.

How do I decide between a smaller petrol machine and a larger diesel one?icon-minus-redicon-plus-red

Think about how hard and how often the machine will work. Smaller petrol machines are lighter and easier to move, and suit lighter welding, maintenance and occasional use. Larger diesel machines are built for heavier current and long working days, and are usually more economical on fuel for continuous use.

Also consider the electrode or wire size you need, the generator power you want for tools, and how you will transport the machine. The data plate and manual give the real ratings.

What does the model number tell me?icon-minus-redicon-plus-red

Model names usually include a figure related to the machine's maximum welding output in amps, plus letters that indicate the engine type or features. The figure is a guide to the size class, not a guarantee of continuous output.

For the real capability, check the rated output at a stated duty cycle, the welding processes supported and the generator output in the manual. Compare machines using those figures rather than the name alone.

What welding modes might I find on a machine like this?icon-minus-redicon-plus-red

Common modes include a constant current mode for stick welding and DC TIG, and a constant voltage mode for wire feed welding such as MIG or flux-cored. Some machines also have a mode for arc gouging with carbon electrodes.

Not every model has every mode, so check the control panel and specification. If you want to use a wire feeder, look for a suitable constant voltage output and a socket or supply for the feeder.

Can an engine driven welder run a wire feeder?icon-minus-redicon-plus-red

Some can, but it depends on the machine. Wire feed welding needs a constant voltage output, and not every engine driven welder has one, so check the specification for the welding modes it supports.

Wire feeders get their power in different ways. Some take it from the welding output or a dedicated feeder socket, while others need a separate supply from the machine. The feeder manual states what it needs and the welder manual states what it provides.

Match the two before connecting anything, and use the leads and connectors the makers specify. A mismatch can cause poor wire feeding or damage to the equipment.

How do the arc controls help with stick welding?icon-minus-redicon-plus-red

Controls such as arc force, hot start and output adjustment let you tune the arc to the electrode and the job. More arc force helps when welding in awkward positions or with electrodes that tend to stick. A hot start helps the arc light more reliably.

Start with the electrode maker's current range, then adjust in small steps. If the arc keeps sticking or spluttering, check the electrode is dry, the earth connection is sound and the current suits the electrode.

What is the generator output good for, and what are its limits?icon-minus-redicon-plus-red

The auxiliary output can run lights, grinders, drills and similar site tools, usually at standard site voltage. It is a convenient way to have power wherever you are working.

It has a limited rating, shared with the welding output through the engine. Do not exceed the stated limits, and check that the tools you plan to run are compatible with the supply, particularly any with electronic controls or large motors that draw high starting current.