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Amico CTS plasma TIG Stick welder combo

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Mike festiva

Mike festiva

Күн бұрын

This is a self sponsored review of the Amico CTS multi process Plasma/TIG/Stick welder.
I think this could be a game changer for a home shop and weekend DIY welder.
The TIG is especially good on this little welder. down bellow is some Amazon affiliate links to the welder and consumables plus a lot of other useful clamps, magnet clamps and a wide range of other things.
Amazon affiliate links
**Use the Hynade Amazon Promo code 05MIKEWELD at checkout and save 5% on selected Hynade produces.**
These Hynade Stick,Tig plasma combo machines offer more options and value then the Amico, They can even run an optional TIG amp pedal.
*****Hynade 3-in-1 50 Amp HF start Plasma, 200A TIG and 200A Stick Welder - Welder Combo, Dual Voltage, (can run optional TIG Amp pedal) (STC520D) amzn.to/3uNKgVq
*****Hynade 3-in-1 50 Amp Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter, 200A TIG and 200A Stick Welder Combo, Dual Voltage (can run optional TIG Amp pedal) (STC520DP) amzn.to/3J5gTmD
*****Hynade Optional TIG Pedal amzn.to/35APHOJ
Amico CTS 160 plasma welder amzn.to/39NusWv
100 Pcs Plasma consumables replacements amzn.to/2V71OeH
23 Pcs clear TIG Pyrex stubby cup set amzn.to/39OZVaB
10Pcs TIG Blue tungsten set amzn.to/37JMzLp
Silicon bronze TIG brazing rod good for cast iron repairs amzn.to/2PelLwC
Shade #5 Plasma cutting glasses Hobart amzn.to/2SIIpza
Adjustable magnetic V hold clamps 4Pcs amzn.to/2P7tvQQ
Adjustable magnetic square holds metal amzn.to/2VaWK9c
2 Axis welding clamp 3" great for welding T and 90 deg joints on square metal amzn.to/2Pcl3jo
2 Axis welding clamp 4" amzn.to/39KHkMW
Miller half mask welding respirator amzn.to/2SJz8H0

Пікірлер: 837
@Mikefestiva
@Mikefestiva 2 жыл бұрын
Amazon paid affiliate links These Hynade Stick,Tig plasma combo machines offer more options and value then the Amico, They can even run an optional TIG amp pedal. ***Use the Hynade Amazon Promo code 05MIKEWELD at checkout and save 5% on selected Hynade produces.*** *****Hynade 3-in-1 50 Amp HF start Plasma, 200A TIG and 200A Stick Welder - Welder Combo, Dual Voltage, (can run optional TIG Amp pedal) (STC520D) amzn.to/3uNKgVq *****Hynade 3-in-1 50 Amp Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter, 200A TIG and 200A Stick Welder Combo, Dual Voltage (can run optional TIG Amp pedal) (STC520DP) amzn.to/3J5gTmD *****Hynade Optional TIG Pedal amzn.to/35APHOJ Amico CTS 160 plasma welder amzn.to/39NusWv 100 Pcs Plasma consumables replacements amzn.to/2V71OeH
@ClownWhisper
@ClownWhisper Жыл бұрын
This guy is not available anymore do you have any alternatives for a combo machine I really need something this weekend from Amazon I need to order something today no pressure though lol
@peterxyz3541
@peterxyz3541 4 жыл бұрын
“👍🏼” for not having a long drawn out unboxing.
@TurboDog73TX
@TurboDog73TX 4 жыл бұрын
What fantastic times We live in when You can get a decent Plasma AND TIG machine for under $400 ! I'm looking forward to Your long term tests of it Mike, thanks for all You do.
@robertchoate7557
@robertchoate7557 4 жыл бұрын
I really appreciate your reviews, I made my living for years as a welder, yes high dollar equipment is great, but I'm looking at hobby type equipment working on weekend projects with my son, I've found that alot of reviews on you tube you have either guy that spend thousands of dollars on equipment and most of the cheaper equipment they've already assumed a negative opinion of the equipment, or you have guys that really have no idea of what there reviewing, amico should sponsor you because of your review I've just ordered this machine, I dont want to buy thousands of dollars worth of equipment to build a couple of projects a year and I've been researching these multi process machines and honestly had decided against buying one not really being able to find a decent review of the actual capabilities after watching your video I'm confident this little machine will serve my diy/hobbyist purpose that you
@Mikefestiva
@Mikefestiva 4 жыл бұрын
Right on thanks for your comment 👍 I had a few different viewers ask about Amazon plasma torches, this one seemed interesting to me for the fact it was a combo machine. It’s interesting how all the info I read about it was really lacking on all the websites, how do they miss mentioning the TIG is high frequency? I was actually told from the seller it was scratch start 😂 I think this machine will be great for a DIY guy, the fact you won’t beak the bank to do some projects in your home shop is really great. Take care
@Isadore123L
@Isadore123L Жыл бұрын
Nice job on this review. Covered the product really well. Fair and accurate assessment of capability as well as pro/con. Good demo work and well-paced with narratives during functional demonstration. Nice focus on finished result showing quality produced with only wanting for show of the flipside to see penetration. Heat-effect coloring does give good indication of penetration on thin stock.
@phbrinsden
@phbrinsden 4 жыл бұрын
Really appreciate not doing silly unboxing! I know how to unbox. I also really appreciate your good, honest reviews which home shop/diy people can relate to. Great content as always Mike. Thanks
@leesuschrist
@leesuschrist 4 жыл бұрын
My first welder was an Amico 160 amp inverter stick welder and I honestly don't have a lot of bad things to say about it. It pretty much could do anything my dad's Lincoln tombstone can do at about 1/10th the weight and it runs on 120v/220v. Not bad for 130 bucks.
@joshm8661
@joshm8661 4 жыл бұрын
That's a great little welder and to have a plasma cutter is awesome. I may have to grab one of those. Great info in the video and thanks for sharing. We wouldn't have known without you
@victoryfirst2878
@victoryfirst2878 4 жыл бұрын
I am really amazed as the number of welding machines available for the hobbyist welder. When I was young, you had a choice of a Lincoln tombstone ac stick welder and where happy you had one. Today the selection is just endless it seams.
@Mikefestiva
@Mikefestiva 4 жыл бұрын
Haha the Lincoln tombstone! That was my first welder too 😂 I think almost any one that welded at home from 1970 to 1990 had one. I was a teenager at the time I got one given to me and I wanted to cut and modify old bike frames for projects and even with thin rod I struggled to get frames welded with those old machines I just remember the old AC machine sticking non stop set on a low amp setting trying to tack those frames together. Thanks for checking out my video 👍
@victoryfirst2878
@victoryfirst2878 4 жыл бұрын
@@Mikefestiva When I was 9 years old I got a tombstone welder from J.C. Whitney Company. I saved money from my lawn mowing days. The cost was seventy dollars delivered to the door. Bet you that will never happen today and it was made in the USA with a topnotch company world known. That just does not happen today for sure.I used a auto transformer to control the output from the welder itself, I had any amperage I needed just by turning the dial. I still can weld thin metal with the SMAW all day long. Will never forget how and my friends can vouch for me. The money I made with this welder is in tens of thousands on the conservative side. This welder still is perfect with some scuffing of the paint here and there. So nice to hear others are just as passionate about welding things as I am. Keep up the great work showing other that they can get the welding bug too.
@gweedosgrowroom1861
@gweedosgrowroom1861 4 жыл бұрын
Great review brother 👍👍👍, I'm a hobby dad with a homemade small shop, cheap tools everywhere lol run a HF mig 170 currently, just started using gas and mig wire, you have inspired me to up my game sir, me and my boys build karts and minibikes etc and that machine you just reviewed was like opening the ark lol that would cover every and anything I would need to do, so thanks for footing the bill and trying it out for us DIYers much appreciated
@ingredcold
@ingredcold 3 жыл бұрын
really liked how you "condensed" the video. I wish more people would layout their videos like this especially reviews on products. I feel like it makes the video more watchable and it feels like alot more information is packed into it.
@Mikefestiva
@Mikefestiva 3 жыл бұрын
Thanks 👍 I appreciate your comment!
@mikemullins3761
@mikemullins3761 4 жыл бұрын
The machines are only as good as their users. Good job giving your reviews out of pocket and with no sponsors. The folks watching will know you're not being bias bc you're not being paid/compensated.
@anthonydellacroce3447
@anthonydellacroce3447 3 жыл бұрын
Its been 10 months, let's see a update video!
@Allamericanhotrods
@Allamericanhotrods 4 жыл бұрын
Your set up, demo and discussion were excellently delivered. Thank you
@ecrusch
@ecrusch 4 жыл бұрын
Really enjoy your videos. Your "Regular Guy" type instruction and review makes it feel like a buddy helping me figure things out...honest. I've subscribed and have already gone back and started to watch the rest of your videos. Thanks a bunch. Eric from Kissimmee Fl.
@edmullins4519
@edmullins4519 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the review, think I’ll pull the trigger on one now that I’ve actually seen it used. Hopefully be an inexpensive solution for a plasma at home, with a bonus tig set up!
@DragoWerx
@DragoWerx 4 жыл бұрын
Thank you for this, Sir! we've been wanting a plasma cutter AND to start learning TIG but purchasing both machines was going to be way in the future due to price. Can't wait for your 3 month review!
@Mikefestiva
@Mikefestiva 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for checking out my new video 👍 It will be good to see how it holds up running it at my work over the next 3 months. Ps I really like the rat rod go kart you two are building!
@DragoWerx
@DragoWerx 4 жыл бұрын
@@Mikefestiva Thank you!
@mrl3guy
@mrl3guy 4 жыл бұрын
I have that same machine and I love it. Its easy to go from cutting to weld without even switch out tools except tig. I changed my clamp and stinger when I go mine as well.
@smokerise
@smokerise 4 жыл бұрын
Any welding machine will do its job...you have to get the particular machine to do the job YOU need it to do...no certain brand is any better than any other...it's the human holding the lead!
@jb3161
@jb3161 4 жыл бұрын
thanks for the review, I didn't realize they were that affordable but I will wait until your 3 month review before I buy one.
@bryanrocker5033
@bryanrocker5033 4 жыл бұрын
I hadn't considered any welder that included plasma, but I must say I am impressed.
@Northernstar9370
@Northernstar9370 4 жыл бұрын
I wanted to thank you for posting this! I ordered one up after seeing your vid and this is a great machine so far. (About a month) Your video gave all the good pertinent info to make the decision to buy. I'm looking forward to see your follow up!
@FastSloW-qt8xf
@FastSloW-qt8xf 4 жыл бұрын
I got a amico tig for like 160. And it's great. Had it for 3 years and I use it probably once a month. Good budget machines
@iq0099
@iq0099 4 жыл бұрын
I am not an expert to welding, plasma nor any metal works.. I am impressed at this video! Good review and good information.
@jimc6481
@jimc6481 4 жыл бұрын
Man, this is one of the best reviews on this type of machine I've seen. Excellent review, very well done. Oh yeah, the machine looks like it's pretty good too. Thanks for such a complete and informative review, well done.
@Mikefestiva
@Mikefestiva 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Jim I really appreciate your comments! I bet the CTS 200 is just as good as the 160. If you need the extra amps it’s probably worth the extra cost. Take care
@maxmorter503
@maxmorter503 Жыл бұрын
Love to see you do this on the yeswelder with onboard air your very comprehensive
@luciankristov6436
@luciankristov6436 4 жыл бұрын
I have their plasma cut 50 and their mts 205. The mig is actually pretty good.I like amico. Their not high end but they work for me just fine
@SlickD217
@SlickD217 Жыл бұрын
Great video man thanks for all the time and details. I’ve had a cut 50 for a few years and it’s worth every penny even after being dropped, kicked, rained on etc it still works like new but I too noticed this multi unit and you sold me on it. Thanks 😎
@jamest.5001
@jamest.5001 4 жыл бұрын
I have all the stick welder anyone could need, but the small package, and plasma and tig make it attractive, I'm hoping to setup a small shop at home, something like this could be nice, especially with the low air consumption, great video!!
@clinicalbill7704
@clinicalbill7704 4 жыл бұрын
Thank you for the straight forward. I bought one a few months ago and had some problems with the leads insulated cup stripping, called the company and they were great with replacing them free and quick shipping, so replacing any cracked or broken parts aren’t a problem.
@tomascole67
@tomascole67 4 жыл бұрын
Very good review and demonstration of each tool. Thanks for taking the time and $$$ to make this review. I appreciate it very much.
@Martin-uj6zn
@Martin-uj6zn 3 жыл бұрын
This is a great video, man. Thank you for making it and being so thorough. It really helps novice like myself that are looking for answers served up in layman terms. I am now looking into getting one of these for my steel bike frame projects.
@garybrooks1194
@garybrooks1194 3 жыл бұрын
That’s an old school style ground clamp. I haven’t seen one like that in 25 years. Nice machine for home projects 👍👍👍. ✌️😎
@edwardzadik9299
@edwardzadik9299 4 жыл бұрын
Dude I really like your videos and reviews have a few engine driven machines and a suitcase but needed a cheap flux so after waching ur review on the small flux titanium i got it what a fantastic little welder now im going to get the unlimited 200 just for fun keep up the good work
@Mikefestiva
@Mikefestiva 4 жыл бұрын
Right on thanks for commenting 👍 Yes those little flux 125 welders are a really good value, surprisingly good for a lunch box 😂 I have the Titanium 200 and I love it! Take care Edward
@theodorebowers9737
@theodorebowers9737 4 жыл бұрын
Pretty nice for that price when you're on a really really tight budget once again great video
@buildfabbuild9095
@buildfabbuild9095 4 жыл бұрын
Just got mine in the mail the other day haven’t used it yet! Thanks for the review
@Mikefestiva
@Mikefestiva 4 жыл бұрын
Nice 👍
@lexbroken8101
@lexbroken8101 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the info! Please do a follow up video in the near future to let us know if it holds up. The price went up to $399..
@yoshinoyajones8924
@yoshinoyajones8924 3 жыл бұрын
Ur unboxing is exquisite and appreciated.
@MsWillysg503
@MsWillysg503 4 жыл бұрын
I run an Amico tig 185 ,as my portable ,take to the job machine.Its been great,160 amps max on stick (230 volt) 185 amp tig (230 volt).Im not a fan of the Euro style tig torch,so I replaced with a 17 flex head CK torch,and superflex cable.The HF is great!plus the gas solenoid in the machine.Ive welded up lots of 1"-1 1/2" sched 80 socket weld elbows,couplings etc to pipe.The Amico machines are very inexpensive,I like the HF tig 185 so much,I bought another one for a spare,its still in the box,lol! they have decent cables,large dinse connectors,and will run 6010 stick electrodes!
@Mikefestiva
@Mikefestiva 4 жыл бұрын
It’s good hear you have been happy with your Amico welder. I think for the price it seems like a pretty good little machine. Take care Jeffrey
@MsWillysg503
@MsWillysg503 4 жыл бұрын
@@Mikefestiva yup ,I've had at least 6, actually more like 9 of these Chinese inverters.kinda like a hobby.The Amico tig 185 cost me like $225 a few years back.its just the ticket for taking to the jobsite to either repair pipe weld leaks on refrigeration systems,running new lines,or making pipe supports using 6011/6010 stick.how can u go wrong with high freq,gas solenoid ,dual voltage,good stick capability with cellulose rods,for 225 bucks.although lately ,I've used that HF flux 125 for some light structural stuff and even welded up some 1 1/4" socket weld fittings.
@cavemanjoe7972
@cavemanjoe7972 4 жыл бұрын
I got their ARC160D two years ago and it's still going strong. It burns 6011 and 7018 great on 240, but I haven't tried it on 120 because I haven't needed to. I love the little thing.
@Mikefestiva
@Mikefestiva 4 жыл бұрын
CavemanJoe Hey Joe it’s good to hear from you again 👍 Thanks for commenting to the guy having problems TIG welding SS, I don’t weld much SS so I would have to do the same research as him to help answer some of his questions. It’s good you have been running your Amico for two years without any problems, so far I think it’s a pretty good little welder. I mostly run my welders on 220 as well but I find there’s a lot of people that like to see how they run on 120. Take care Joe 👍
@cavemanjoe7972
@cavemanjoe7972 4 жыл бұрын
@@Mikefestiva Thanks, Mike. If I can figure out how to post photos, I'll show some of my stainless welds. I do more stainless than mild steel, being in a machine shop.
@cavemanjoe7972
@cavemanjoe7972 4 жыл бұрын
@@Mikefestiva Almost forgot, my profile pic is a stainless keyed sleeve I welded into a solid roller that was wallowed out from wear.
@Agustin-jo8mv
@Agustin-jo8mv 4 жыл бұрын
Wow definitely looks like a sweet budget welder/cutter!
@rickm7209
@rickm7209 2 жыл бұрын
Very well made video. Steady camera, good use of close ups, split screen, and text explanations of the process being used. Excellent. Thank you.
@Mikefestiva
@Mikefestiva 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you Rick!!
@catastrophicfella
@catastrophicfella 3 жыл бұрын
congrats on 100k!! (little late I know) Glad you reviewed this. Almost purchased it awhile back but joined a local maker lab instead and used their plasma table. Still will ahve to keep this in mind for the future - seems like the perfect hobbyist plasma cutter, and great option for someone who wants to learn tig.
@kelleym3
@kelleym3 4 жыл бұрын
Great video, I recently purchased this welder based on your review. Thank you
@allenhoward9379
@allenhoward9379 4 жыл бұрын
THANK YOU FOR THE QUICK UNBOXING!
@designandbuild3953
@designandbuild3953 4 жыл бұрын
Nice review Mike! Looked to perform very well for the money.
@jeremywill4272
@jeremywill4272 4 жыл бұрын
Either way I want it just for the plasma cutter. And to get stick and tig is just a bonus thanks for the review
@paulbenabise
@paulbenabise 4 жыл бұрын
After watching your review I bought one at Home Depot. Supposedly Amico addressed all the concerns that you talked about hopefully it will be a good machine.
@Mikefestiva
@Mikefestiva 4 жыл бұрын
Let me know if they did 👍 thanks for commenting Paul 🙂
@paulbenabise
@paulbenabise 4 жыл бұрын
Mike festiva after using this welder plas cutter tig from 3 weeks it’s not a commercial grade piece of equipment but it does do an excellent job very consistent no air leaks no gas leaks easy to adjust easy to read love the tig Hi frequency start and plasma start good machine I would recommend it.
@canadianwelder3899
@canadianwelder3899 3 жыл бұрын
As a welder with 40 years welding,90% of the time overheating of machine or torch is caused by bad ground clamp. So a heavy ground is a good thing.
@ar15gator
@ar15gator 4 жыл бұрын
The best ever, Thanks for self-sponsoring, I like the Tig welders, but the others are so expensive, that multi-process machine, is Frkn Great!
@ChrisNieves
@ChrisNieves 4 жыл бұрын
Last year I purchased a Ramsond Plasma cutter off amazon for about 250 bucks. I used it to slice through half inch old chiller wall plate like butter, it wasn't fast but worked perfect. all I needed was to make me a 220 circuit here at work and went to action. I ate through a bunch of consumables but comes with the territory and are cheap. I love plasma cutting more than anything. Not to take away from your video which was great btw just wanted to share my experience as well.
@orbitalair2103
@orbitalair2103 4 жыл бұрын
I have the Amico Power ARC160 for about 3 months to learn stick welding, its a brute at 80%duty at 160amps. My weak link is also the breaker, but I can run 3/32 like you at about 80amps. My machine did not have any flaws like you saw, my stinger was good quality. I was actually looking at getting one of these soon, so thanks a lot for the review. Nice that they put the moisture trap inside.
@jamesfoster9115
@jamesfoster9115 4 жыл бұрын
You weld 3/32 7018 at 90 amp! I'm a boilermaker, any more help will cost you
@orbitalair2103
@orbitalair2103 4 жыл бұрын
@@jamesfoster9115 youre right, no not 7018 it will stick that low. 7014 and 6013. I need more power, like Tim the Toolman.
@kerrijodierberger
@kerrijodierberger 3 жыл бұрын
Ok, I keep watching this video over and over, so from what I hear you saying is I don’t need argon gas for plasma cutting, just for welding with stick, and tig welding, best video I can find. Thank you for all the information, I’m a retired car painter, so I can hook up a water trap on my air compressor , and it it has a internal water trap also, so I should be able to figure it out. Again thank you for the great video.
@joeybobbie1
@joeybobbie1 2 жыл бұрын
You only need the Argon for the Tig Welding. Stick Welding doesn’t use any Gas.
@jerryray3065
@jerryray3065 4 жыл бұрын
Looking forward to your follow up video. I ordered one from your link I ended up getting the 180 modle real happy so far
@Mikefestiva
@Mikefestiva 4 жыл бұрын
Nice 👍 I loaned my 160 out to a friend because he wanted to learn how to TIG and also needed a plasma torch. I will do a follow up video this fall. Take care Jerry.
@brabham9925
@brabham9925 4 жыл бұрын
Yes. I saw the entire presentation. Just wanted to make sure. Thanks.
@Mikefestiva
@Mikefestiva 4 жыл бұрын
Right on 👍 Yes it’s definitely misleading when you look into the specs on web sites, they say it’s lift or scratch start. But as I mentioned in the video it’s a pleasant surprise it’s actually HF start.
@iiNgONYaMa
@iiNgONYaMa 4 жыл бұрын
@@Mikefestiva thanks for the confirmation
@mikemullins3761
@mikemullins3761 4 жыл бұрын
FYI: I bought a $80 stinger from an established welding supply store and it last me less than a year. I bought one for less than $20 from Harbor Freight and no complaints.
@lookingbehind6335
@lookingbehind6335 4 жыл бұрын
Amico,Hitbox,Lotos,and Mophorn are all excellent welders for their purpose and price point. I feel much better banging around my 600 dollar Mophorn than my 2200 dollar Lincoln. It was a great investment. I have made that 600 back a hundred times over.
@KowboyUSA
@KowboyUSA 4 жыл бұрын
Great review. Have stick and MIG. Sure could use TIG and a plasma cutter, but the combined cost of both is a daunting expense to justify.
@uniquezeeks6015
@uniquezeeks6015 4 жыл бұрын
About a year and a half ago I bought the 180 pig Tig Mig Stick. I like it for the most part but found the quality control was a little lacking. Off the start the plug for the trigger on the Mig gun wasn’t completely assembled. Once I figured out what the problem was there I started welding with the Mig and it worked great. I ran it on 110 V and 220 pushed it as hard as I could and it worked great. Until about a year later. Then the wire kept bundling up inside the hose. I called them up and talk to them they didn’t have any idea what it could be but they did send me a whole new mig hose and gun. I plugged it in and immediately had the same problem. I then took to taking apart the hose completely and found out that the interior tube that the wire runs in separated from the fitting or the end. I reassembled it screwed on tight and it worked great it has come apart one more time since then so I will have to see about getting some adhesive or something to hold it together but other than that I’ve been real happy with the machine. I think their assembly Quality Control probably needs a little improvement there customer service was great and I like the American made. I’m hoping that they’ve already fixed these little quality control issues I am looking forward to purchasing more machines from them in the future.
@TRCCtv
@TRCCtv 3 жыл бұрын
you said update in 3 months, it's been a little longer than that and i cant find it, did you ever do it?
@guillermonieri4203
@guillermonieri4203 2 жыл бұрын
Well, I bought one a few months ago and I fixing to use it. That is the reason I am again watching your vide. Thank you again.
@blackbuttecruizr
@blackbuttecruizr 4 жыл бұрын
Great content! Thanks the review!!!
@lithuaniangiant2676
@lithuaniangiant2676 3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the video. I am on the edge about getting one of these. I proudly come from blue collar people but went to school playing basketball and am a Physicist. Now for fun, on my days off, I play in my shop and plan to add one of these to my toy box. LOL
@jdub229r
@jdub229r 4 жыл бұрын
Subscribed - Nice review! I think I'll buy one, for $44 you can get a 4 year warranty. If it's anything like the other Amazon warranty claims, they just refund the money. If it's running 4 years from now, I'll have got my money's worth.
@Mikefestiva
@Mikefestiva 4 жыл бұрын
That’s not bad for $44! I have never bought Amazon extended warranties, but if it’s that easy it seems well worth it 👍
@tommy23490
@tommy23490 4 жыл бұрын
I bought one of these a while back.. never tried the stick welding.. love it couldn’t be happier with it
@1rustytree
@1rustytree 4 жыл бұрын
Seems like a great all round machine for the price, Mike. I really like my Amico160 DC inverter.
@jblake9042
@jblake9042 4 жыл бұрын
Mike, first I want to thank you for your vids and reviews. Helping me make some good decisions. Thank you. Been a machinist most of my life but have side lined for the last 20 yrs. due to health issues and no longer have access to the big name equipment I've used for years. But have built up nice little machine shop for home projects, including basic welding equipment, Ox-Acy torch, HF style mig and my beloved old Lincoln tombstone. (probably as old as I am @ 68) haha. Problem is had a couple of puke punks break in and stole all kinds of stuff last winter. Most, the cops where able to recover minus the welding equipment. Now the only welder I have is my old tombstone, (to heavy and too much work for them I guess) Basters. Anyway, I'm at a point that I can finally replace the welding equipment. Have been looking at these combo welders for a while but couldn't justify the cost until now. This CTS unit seems like a good deal currently around $400 on the online site you gave link to. Also looking for a mig replacement. Local HF has a sale on the CE Flux 125 on sale for $99 and the Titanium Flux 125 for $219. Haven't made up my mine yet on these. Would love to be able to weld AL but really can't afford the cost right now for the small amount of AL I would be working with right now. That may change later this year or next fall when I get back to building my CNC stuff. Now I'm NOT A WELDER, I can weld old school OX-Acy, (dying art), stick and mig. But want to learn to Tig. One issue I have is the bastards took ALL of my gas bottles. Was using mix argon/Co2 on the little mig as well, as the flux core wire. Now that I have no bottles at all I'm looking for a way to minimize the need for them. I see your using straight Argon for most of your projects. Or am I missing something? Most of the stuff I will be making is thinner steel like bicycle frames, racks and so on. Would like your opinion on the gas or gases I may need? Is argon good for steel, stainless and later on if I go with a spool gun for AL? Damn didn't mean to write a book, hope I didn't miss and letter "a" as keyboard is as old as I am. Keep up the good work, your a very sharp creative skilled individual. PH
@1armedguy4
@1armedguy4 3 жыл бұрын
I've always said the machine is only as good as the person using it. Cheers !
@CraigHollabaugh
@CraigHollabaugh 4 жыл бұрын
Very informative, just like your other videos. Thanks from Colorado.
@dalnuu7425
@dalnuu7425 3 жыл бұрын
Thank you mate I don’t know how to use it ,but watching n listening from you it’ll help me out with my projects Aloha
@Mikefestiva
@Mikefestiva 3 жыл бұрын
Right on that’s awesome
@gmindgjerd
@gmindgjerd 4 жыл бұрын
I found myself uttering the word wow several times during this video. I want one.
@jondavidmcnabb
@jondavidmcnabb 4 жыл бұрын
Excellent review Mike. I might have to pick this up for the plasma cutter function.
@CreatorofWhat
@CreatorofWhat 3 жыл бұрын
I appreciate the non-unboxing. Thank You.
@markkoenig9344
@markkoenig9344 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the review. Can't stand the wait for the update so I bought one for myself...lol
@bobcatt2294
@bobcatt2294 3 жыл бұрын
Peeps with OCD will do this :) I am about to follow your lead.
@amanofmanyparts9120
@amanofmanyparts9120 4 жыл бұрын
I recently bought a similar machine - the CT312 - also DC only. It comes with a variety of heads, clamps and lead lengths which change as the months pass. [Spoiler alert: I only have access to 240 volts in my workshop at a maximum of 16 amps] On plasma (max 30 amps) it cuts well from an HF start if the metal is clean and requires no stand off as the exposed tip is isolated from the voltage. At 60psi it cuts through 3/16" steel with no trouble and cleanly enough for even 1" of overhanging metal to drop off without any help. The fixed post flow helps to cool the part you're keeping, which isn't a bad thing. How good the water trap performs I couldn't say as I have a better one on my workshop wall which feeds the supplied one mounted on the back of the machine. It's also an oil dispenser; a function that I don't use. The fan, which runs from switch on, is audible, but not distracting. As an aside: My compressor is capable of outputting 6cf/min @ up to 150psi and has a 30 litre tank. Due to the failure of my previous compressor, I've piggy backed the old reservoir to give me a total of 60 litres of stored compressed air. What's to say about the stick function? It lays down a bead on/with whatever material/rod I throw at it. It's no better nor worse than my old 100+ amp SIP Weldmate that I bought off Noah when he was a bit short of cash after The Flood! Hell: I've welded straight from a 12 volt car battery! Admittedly that torch had a solenoid in the head that jiggled the stick back and forth as the arc was struck, making the whole thing a lot easier. I wish I knew what happened to that little doohicky! I may make another one some day, just for shits & giggles. Damp rods? Not I, Sir. I keep them in the house, and only take out what I think I may need for the job in hand. Any unused rods are returned and the part rods can fend for themselves or be discarded. As far as the TIG function is concerned (allegedly up 120 amps) ... No idea so far. No combination of collet holder/collet/back cap as supplied (except one - see below) will grip a tungsten (none provided). I've bought a couple of sets of consumables, including gas lenses and Pyrex cups, that similarly don't fit any better and,so far, complaints to the seller have been met with condescending explanations on how to assemble a TIG head. *Teach your grandmother to suck eggs, Banggood!* I have a WP 9 head and consumables that go together, but the fitting is different (adaptor on order) and needs a foot pedal to work it. Incidentally there is one supplied combo (ultra short back cap) that goes together well, but there wasn't a cup to fit the short, fat collet holder, and I can't find one that does. Overall you dial in the amperage, but it has no digital readout. I could test it with a clamp meter, but I've only got 2 hands ... If I can ever get the TIG function going it will be US$170 well spent! Ps. I 'cashed in' 200 of my 'frequent flier points' to get that much discount, but automatically got 213 back for buying it plus 3% cashback 30 days after purchase!
@johndoh3353
@johndoh3353 3 жыл бұрын
I laughed so hard when you were talking about the manual. Earned my subscription
@Mikefestiva
@Mikefestiva 3 жыл бұрын
Right on 👍 thanks John!
@sivonparansun
@sivonparansun 4 жыл бұрын
I thumbed up when you said you werent into long unboxing videos +1
@104littleal6
@104littleal6 4 жыл бұрын
I DC TIG welded aluminum using a stick welding rod for the filler rod. It worked. Also, ebay has 3 in 1 plasma, stick and TIG for auction from Accurate Tools for less than $300. I think it's a 50 amp plasma.
@tomharrell1954
@tomharrell1954 4 жыл бұрын
You will be very surprised what happens with a dedicated 20amp circuit!!! The improvement of the welder is double!
@AntonioClaudioMichael
@AntonioClaudioMichael 4 жыл бұрын
This is a pretty impressive little machine
@ChrisGilliamOffGrid
@ChrisGilliamOffGrid 4 жыл бұрын
It's a good little machine, I've had mine over a year.
@vernonpeterson3323
@vernonpeterson3323 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the good review. Maybe it was just the camera but if that was standard DC reverse polarity 7018 it should have been much smoother with a cleaner weld. Also, I find 6010 for DC and 6011 for AC a better rod for muti-purpose welding. Keep up the good work.
@paulhatch7759
@paulhatch7759 4 жыл бұрын
Yes I agree. Some small machines don't like 6010 have to use 6011. Surprised he didn't test those rods.
@billsmith5166
@billsmith5166 4 жыл бұрын
Seems to me that the Chinese machines are getting better and better. Where the heck did they get that stinger? I'm looking at a Yeswelder mig that I need like another hole in my head, but they're getting so cheap that they're almost disposable. Thanks for the video! By the way, you're spending quite a bit to do reviews, start a Patreon!
@TdrSld
@TdrSld 4 жыл бұрын
So the plasma torch is a pt-31torch, it's an old Esab unit that went out of pat protection and now everyone is making cheap torch with it. Hope that helps.
@pedropulido7534
@pedropulido7534 3 жыл бұрын
I have a cts-200 I am good at this and this video helped me a lot, hey my friend! Many thanks for the advice they have served me a lot !!! 👍🏼
@user-neo71665
@user-neo71665 4 жыл бұрын
Hell I always put a huge ground clamp on all my stuff. It's easier to fit it on anything instead of searching around for something small enough to fit a tiny clamp.
@KTX666
@KTX666 4 жыл бұрын
let me tell you a secret... all of those cheaper welder/plasma units are all churned out at the same chinese factory... no matter if it's called everlast or amigo or whatever... the only difference is the colour and the stickers. and if you buy a little more expensive one, you're just paying for the different plastic front that the importer ordered so he can charge more for it ;-)
@silvergrizzly316
@silvergrizzly316 4 жыл бұрын
KentexDamgaard, sad to say but your are exactly right!!!
@robertyearian227
@robertyearian227 4 жыл бұрын
Good video really clear you weld very well you must have been doing this many years thanks for video the company needs to pay you for this
@abouttheravadabuddhism
@abouttheravadabuddhism 4 жыл бұрын
Okay Mike.. it's 4 months.. do you have a follow up recommendation at least? Only the CTS-200 is available now anywhere, I think it's the same machine they just jacked the price $100+, I hope they incorporated your suggestions though... So how did the CTS-160 do? Probably like me many are waiting to know..
@minigpracing3068
@minigpracing3068 4 жыл бұрын
My cheap Hyl AC/DC tig/stick was great for about the first three or four sessions... Then it failed and the importer jerked me around long enough to sell out of everything and close the doors. $450 in the trash. Hope this lasts longer for you.
@TurboJailer
@TurboJailer 4 жыл бұрын
Another great review, keep em coming!
@frankhorvath817
@frankhorvath817 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for doing this excellent video. I'll be buying one of these.
@gupp22
@gupp22 3 жыл бұрын
Would like to seen you use the Amico tig attachments which came in the box to see how well they worked.
@djtonypitt
@djtonypitt Жыл бұрын
Greetings, did you do a follow up on this one? Didn’t see it in your video’s listed.
@charlesflaco5037
@charlesflaco5037 4 жыл бұрын
So far I've only ran stick on 120 amp at 72 7018 im waiting for spring to to try the rest but good to see another person with one of these machines
@chevy6794
@chevy6794 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for your review. There might be a better welder for what I need but no reviews as good as yours. Very informative. I bought it because I felt I can have confidence based on your review. Looking forward to getting it. I was considering the 200 but decided on the 160 because there was no good reviews on it. Was pretty sure it was the same but couldn’t be sure. I came into this confused and frustrated. I feel you really helped with that. Once again Thanks a lot.
@rosswmccallister4866
@rosswmccallister4866 4 жыл бұрын
Good morning Cheviesel Cheviesel. You might want to see if they place where you purchased this from will price match WallMart online. They have this for $256.00. its worth a shot to save you some $$ to try.
@chevy6794
@chevy6794 4 жыл бұрын
RossW McCallister wow. Thanks. I bought it for almost double that on eBay. I hope it’s not too late to cancel. Thanks a lot. I live in Canada. Wounder if they’ll ship to here?
@frankhorvath817
@frankhorvath817 4 жыл бұрын
@@rosswmccallister4866 Hi Ross! Can you tell me which Walmart online vendor fulfilled it at that price, please. I've been looking and can't find it.
@melvinmoses6641
@melvinmoses6641 2 жыл бұрын
You are truly good at teaching, thank you very much for this video… now I know what machine to buy, thank you
@dillonburns362
@dillonburns362 4 жыл бұрын
Which machine would you prefer to tig weld with, Vulcan or this? Love the channel and I think you do a great job at explaining products🤘🤘
@TheWrate
@TheWrate 4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for a no nonsense review. I'm looking for a small multi-process machine with a small footprint. Think I just found it.
@Dj-ve2hx
@Dj-ve2hx Жыл бұрын
Hey Mike, thanks for your videos,any long term thoughts now on the amico tig welder I have the cut 50 plasma cutter, and it works awesome. Thanks.
@FrenchyCamp
@FrenchyCamp 3 жыл бұрын
Great video, very informative. Looking at getting one, well, the CTS200 as it seems the 160 might be out of production. That's pretty much $500 for the 200 so I want to make sure it last at least a year. A quick follow up video on durability and whatever else you found out about this unit would be greatly appreciated. Thanks again for all your great work, I know it's time consuming.
@Mikefestiva
@Mikefestiva 3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for checking out my video 👍 I actually shot a follow up video last weekend about this welder along with every other welder I have reviewed over the years. I will try and post it this coming Friday 🙂 The CTS 160 is still going strong, I actually gave it to my friend, he didn’t have a plasma torch, and he also wanted to learn TIG, he loves it, he isn’t throwing away money on expensive gas for his old cutting torch anymore. Keep an eye out for that new video this coming Friday!
@FrenchyCamp
@FrenchyCamp 3 жыл бұрын
@@Mikefestiva thanks Mike!🙂
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