DeTomaso Mailing List: July 98, Message #212

My Fellow Panteraphiles; questions for you pros and serious
do-it-yourselfers.  I want to upgrade my welding capability, and would like
some advice.  I have a medium duty electric arc (stick) welder, and a light
duty oxy - acetylene unit (welding only - no cutting).  The arc welder is
OK for material 1/8" thick and up, but is too brutal for body sheet metal.
The O-A gas torch works OK on light metal, but tends to warp the material
being welded.  Neither of them is any good on aluminum or other non-ferrous
alloys.  I guess I need to move up to MIG or TIG welding.

What do MIG and TIG stand for?  What is the difference in their
capabilities?  Which would be better suited for the kind of work I'm likely
to encounter doing auto restoration work?  I should be able to pick up used
equipment locally; what should I look for (look out for) when shopping for
a used welder?

As always, thanks in advance for any & all information.