Unstable arc or weak output

The arc wanders, cuts out, spits, or feels weak at settings that used to work. Check the parts that wear first.

What to check first

1. Clean the ground clamp contact and put it close to the weld on bare metal.
2. Tighten all cable connections. A loose connection heats up and drops power.
3. Replace the contact tip and clean the nozzle on a MIG gun.
4. For TIG, regrind or replace the tungsten and check the gas flow.
5. For stick, try fresh, dry electrodes.
6. Skip long or thin extension cords. Plug straight into the outlet to test.
7. Check that the wire feeds smoothly with no jerking.

Safety: Do not open the case. Welders hold a dangerous charge inside even when they are unplugged.

What it usually is

• Worn cables, tips or connections
• Poor gas coverage
• Low incoming power
• A part inside the machine that is failing

When to call us

Everything outside the case checks out and the arc is still weak or unstable.

Call and tell us the brand and what it does. In 2 days we'll tell you what's wrong, and we'll fix it. We come to you within 100 miles of Charlotte. Finding out what's wrong costs $250, and it goes toward your repair. See pricing and warranty.