welding

[scopx]

As you do not have lot of experience welding, would recommend going MIG as it the least difficulty to master of welding processes. (Its easier than stick (smaw)). Also recommend power min of 160 AMP as limiting functionality with less power. In other words, you can always turn unit down to lower settings for "thin" stuff, but can't go beyond max settings. As you progress in your skills, will want to do varied projects.
Buy as good as Mig unit as you can afford and if you choose wisely, will last you for many years. My recommendation is to purchase unit that is set up for protective gas rather than "flux" wire. It is nasty with lots of splatter,and very "fumy."
My collection of welding stuff:
1. 160 amp century 220 v (DC, straight and reversed polarity) use on sheet metal to 1/4 inch or thicker by adjustments and heavier wire size. Use this machine about 85% of operations, uses protective gas(usually 75/25 mix)
2. 200amp "stick" (smaw) 220v (called cracker box here) old style welding,inexpensive use on heavy farm type usage where cosmetics is of no concern
3. miller roughneck 2e, gas driven portable unit on skid used in locations where no line power is available. Have not used this unit after acquitision. Miller top brand name.
4&5.
small and large acet/oxy combos on carts. This process not used too much any more.
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Have used and proficient on Tig, both ferrous and non ferrous based metals. It is more difficult to learn as you are using both hands and usually one foot (to regulate power.) However, it is a highly desirable method of welding for mission critical work. If the machine has the "beans" can be regulated down to joining soda cans to high amperage 300>.

Lesson I learned hard way, be sure to disconnect electronic based stuff (by removing ground battery cable)when welding on vehicles. Solid state does not like all those strange electrons floating around.http://www.haynes.co.uk/forums/images/smilies/mad.gif
Tom