Roller Tension

[Hoods5]

Hi guys,

I am setting up my Miller 211 and it works great but I'm not sure I have the roller tension correct because it seems like the motor is really working.

Can some one give me a good way to test the roller tension other than the way in the manual? Thanks

Also can someone direct me to a good picture resource with various welds that are good and bad explaining why they are? Thanks again

Dave

[iceman8]

It's important to keep the gun cable as straight as possible, within reason of course. What size wire are you using now? The instructions seem pretty clear about how to set up tension. Also, they offer a knurled drive roll for use with flux core wire. I sprung for that and it works really well. No issues at all with feeding, even when I have to really bend the gun cable around, more than I want to.

I know some machines make a bit more noise than others too. I don't have a 211 but my Passport Plus is pretty quiet.

As much as we all hate reading "the book" maybe go back and look at the feed roll tension info. and re-check your settings. There is a specific test advised to check ideal tension.

My experience and from talking to others, .030 wire seems to work best with this class of machine. JMO.

[Old Sporty]

Hi guys,

I am setting up my Miller 211 and it works great but I'm not sure I have the roller tension correct because it seems like the motor is really working.

Can some one give me a good way to test the roller tension other than the way in the manual? Thanks

Also can someone direct me to a good picture resource with various welds that are good and bad explaining why they are? Thanks again

Dave

I haven't posted here in a good while, but I'm going to have to on this.

The manual gives as good a setup routine for the roller tension that you are going to get. It works if you follow it. You could also just set it where you want to and then try to run a bead. Keep doing this till it gets where you like it.

Another thing, if the motor sounds like it's straining, you probably have the spool mounting nut too tight. It should only be tight enough to keep the spool from unwinding on its own.

For good resources on what a weld should look like, look at the troubleshooting section of your manual. I don't have mine handy right now, but I think it's in there. If not, click above where it says resources. Look in the MIG section and you will find a treasure trove of information.

While you're at it, order the "Student Package". It will be the best 25 bucks you'll spend. Read the books and practice.

You've purchased a very good welder, now use the resources provided by Miller to make you a good weldor.

[Hoods5]

I am using .030 solid wire with 72/25 gas, using 230V.

[Hoods5]

WOW I just found the resource section. You're right tons of great info thanks.