When selecting a welding unit for on-site equipment repair, several variables come into play. What type of welding will you perform? How much continuous power will you need? How much does the unit weigh? The right unit for the job depends on the answers to these and other questions that apply to your unique situation.

Simplicity vs. productivity
The simplicity of stick welding makes it a natural for equipment repairs. "It is simple to set up," says Eric Snyder, product manager for engine-driven welders at Lincoln Electric. "You don't have to worry about a wire feeder."

Instead, you just clamp the ground connection to the work, hook the electrode to the other cable and start welding. "The simplest equipment will handle a wide variety of repair applications," Snyder adds. "Most people in the field want the simplest setup possible. There is less to go wrong - less to maintain."

John Leisner, product manager, Miller Electric Mfg. Co., agrees, noting, "[Stick] is simple, inexpensive and easy to use, and is very common because of it. All you need are two leads and your electrode."

But stick welding has a reputation for being a little more sensitive to operator technique. "The welding technique is more difficult with stick than with GMAW or MIG welding," says Leisner. "It requires a little more hand/eye coordination. You have to be manually feeding the electrode, as well as progressing in travel."