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Thinking about a small TIG for bodywork, tubes, etc. Anyone have any experience or knowledge about the Miller Maxstar 91 or ESAB 150. If it matters, the Maxstar is $400 and the ESAB is $500. No torches on either, but still.

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Are these 110 volt machines or 220? I have never used a 110 volt tig,I must admit,but as a rule of thumb any 110 volt welder has to be marginal as you can only get a limited amount of energy from a 110 receptical, I would closely check the duty cycle on this machine. A tig welder is a great tool but I would strongly recomend a higher voltage(220)machine and a duty cycle of at least 40%. Anything less and you will spend more time waiting for it to cool off than you will spend welding! If you are looking to buy a welder you would do well to spend a little extra and get a usable machine as you will find that there are many more uses for a welder than just sheet metal. Also I would recommend staying with the big name companys such as Lincoln,miller or hobart as I have used these machines in my shop since 1969(ouch that hurt)! and I can vouch for the quality of this equipment. If you are mainly concerned with body work and you are on a tight budget I would recomend a mig machine as they are very easy to use and do a fantastic job.