Welder Reccomendations

[breakjeepparts]

I am completely new to the welding arena. I'm looking to purchase my first welder in the next month or so. Basically, I'm looking for something to build up my already custom cage with as well and fabricate some sliders for my rockers and other similar jobs I might run into. Due to budget(no more than 300), it being my first welder, and my needs what would you reccommend? I was thinking an arc welder by Hobart. I do have a friend that I wrench with that completed a year long course using arc, mig, tig, plasma so he can help me out a fair amount. I know Harbor Freight tends to be lower quality, but are they worth considering? Only because $300 is the most I would ever spend, hopefully not even that much. Are there any specs I should be aware of, like amperage ratings etc. I don't really know what is enough/not enough/too much for what I'll be doing. Thanks!

edit: I found a like new miller arc welder thunderbolt 225. 208/240v for 75 dollars. What do you think about that?

[Todd W]

You can get a used lincoln arc for 100-200.

[Pin Head]

A T-bolt for $75 is a deal as it will always be worth that. Get some 3/32" 6011 and 6013 rod and start practicing. Bend the weldment back 180 degrees across the weld and see if it breaks or cracks. After you burn off about 50 pounds of rod practicing, you will probably know enough to know whether it is a good idea to weld your cage yourself or just tack it and have a pro weld it.

[Azzy2000]

X2 .. practice your ass off before you tackle your own (or someone elses) cage welding