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mig 101 basics for beginners how to mig

Mig Welding for Beginners

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Setting up a mig welder. (in this video the Primeweld MIG180)

If you are thinking you would like to learn how to mig weld and even the most basic videos seem too advanced for you, this video might just be the ticket.

I made this video  with my 2 sons Jake and Joey and its about how to set up a mig welder and how to get started mig welding. My thinking was they would ask plenty of basic questions that I might accidentally skip over.

I made this unlisted video strictly for you as a weldmonger store customer as a way to say thanks for your support

This is a very small but powerful mig welder that also stick welds and can scratch start TIG..and even comes with a spool gun. click below to learn more

 

  • Follow the instructions and make sure the polarity is set to DCEP for short circuit mig welding. 
  • ER70S6 Is the most commonly used mig wire for short circuit mig welding. 
  • Match wire diameter with drive roller grooves.  
  • Wire comes in different sizes depending on your needs but .023", .030", and .035"   are the best choices for this MIG180 machine using C25 mig gas.
  • .023" is good for thin metal like auto body panels, and .035" is better for 1/8" and thicker
  • .030" is a great all around choice for welding both thin and thick steel.

 

Importance of a good ground connection.

A good solid ground connection will help you dial in your settings better because you will avoid stutters due to poor ground connection

Gas type and flow rate

The most common mig gas for short circuit mig is C25 aka 75/25 argon/co2

Flow rate depends a lot on nozzle size but  20-25 cfh works fine with the MIG180

Importance of Stick Out and CTWD

The amount of wire sticking out past the contact tip and between the weld puddle is called stickout and it is best kept short...less than 1/2"

I will say it again..."The best practice is padding beads"

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Next article MIG & Lift Arc TIG - PrimeWeld MTS200

Comments

Jeremy Joel - May 31, 2025

Your videos always show the welding that you are doing so clearly. I find that most times it is really difficult to see the weld, as I go along. please give us some advice on seeing the weld better.
I wish that you were in europe so we could easily buy your excellent equipment.
best wishes

Jeremy an 84 year old.

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