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Welders

MiG welder wire feed problems

Gasless MIG for beginners, wire-feed problems, liners jammed — I cover the real issues you’ll hit in a home shop. These reviews and tutorials walk through setup, wire selection, drive motor fixes, and helmet tests, with practical weld examples you can repeat. Each page includes today’s Amazon price for the featured gear, plus links to welding consumables for NZ buyers.

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Most Common Cause

Wet / Low Air

Quick Win

Replace Tip/Electrode

Torch

PT-31 / SG-55

Verdict

  • 90% of no-arc issues are air, ground, or worn consumables — easy checks first.
  • Keep air dry and at the right flow; moisture kills arc stability and tips.
  • Ground clamp on clean metal, close to the cut; inspect cable for heat damage.
  • Confirm torch safety interlocks and cup seating; replace cheap tips more often.

Key Specs / Setup

Recommended Air5–6 CFM @ 90 PSI (dry, filtered)
Tip Gap1–2 mm with standoff guide for cleaner kerf
LeadsKeep short & undamaged; check ground clamp jaws
Common TorchesPT-31, SG-55, P-80

FAQ

Yes. Flux core is forgiving; start with 0.8–0.9 mm wire and short passes.

Check spool tension, liner condition, drive-roller groove, and tip size.

Use chart as a baseline; tune by sound — steady sizzle without stubbing.

Yes, with flux-core wire. Set polarity correctly and shield from wind.

Lower voltage, pulse trigger, increase travel speed, and use backing copper.

Welders

Troubleshooting

Alternatives

Budget 40A Cutter

Good for 6-8 mm plate

Higher Duty 60A

Better for 10-12 mm continues

Pilot Arc Bundle

Includes SG-55 torch + spares

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