Page 1 of 1

Generator watt requirements

Posted: Fri Jan 20, 2012 9:56 am
by ASC
I have a wen power 3000 watt 3500 surge watt generator. It only weighs 100lbs. I have limited space in my van, and usually work alone So I can get it out myself.
It has a 120 & 230 receptacles and a 25 breaker. I want to purchase the Miller Maxstar 150s because of its lightweight, portability. It uses 2400 watts at max 150 amps on the 230 line. I want to weld 1/8, 3/16" brackets using 1/8" electrode 6011 7018. I dont have the ability to try one with my generator. Any good advice is appreciated!

Re: Generator watt requirements

Posted: Fri Jan 20, 2012 10:40 am
by jpence38
I think you may have made a mistake with the input wattage. You will need minimum 5000 watts to run this welder at max output on 230v.

Also, when you purchase your Maxstar, get an STL (907135) model, not the S (907134) model. The S models are cheaper, but they also had problems with the pc boards in them and when they go, it cost practically as much to fix it as to buy a new one.

Re: Generator watt requirements

Posted: Sat Jan 21, 2012 12:13 am
by weldin mike 27
Hi there,

Check the specs of your welder,it should tell you if, 1) it is generator compatible, and 2) exactly what size generator you will need.

Mick

Re: Generator watt requirements

Posted: Sat Jan 21, 2012 1:55 pm
by jpence38
Hey ASC,
I apologize for the misinformation about the S model. :oops: The problem was with older machines using second rate pc boards and them going bad. If you purchase a new S model that has recently been manufactured, you are getting a good machine. I own a 150 STL and it is a good machine.

Re: Generator watt requirements

Posted: Mon Jun 18, 2012 9:52 am
by mstanley
jpence38 wrote:I think you may have made a mistake with the input wattage. You will need minimum 5000 watts to run this welder at max output on 230v.

Also, when you purchase your Maxstar, get an STL (907135) model, not the S (907134) model. The S models are cheaper, but they also had problems with the pc boards in them and when they go, it cost practically as much to fix it as to buy a new one.
Is there a major size difference between the STL and S models? I am looking for a relatively small but very good generator and I am kind of twisted between using generator rental or buying myself a new one. I think it all just depends on the prices and on whether it is cheaper to rent rather than to buy. Though buying one has a lot of great advantages.