Harbor Freight Tools Welder 97503 User Manual

Dual MIG welDer  
Model 97503  
Set up anD OperatInG InStructIOnS  
Diagrams within this manual may not be drawn proportionally.  
Due to continuing improvements, actual product may differ slightly from the product described herein.  
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Distributed exclusively by Harbor Freight tools .  
3491 Mission Oaks Blvd., Camarillo, CA 93011  
Visit our website at: http://www.harborfreight.com  
read this material before using this product.  
Failure to do so can result in serious injury.  
SaVe tHIS Manual.  
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®
Copyright 2008 by Harbor Freight Tools . All rights reserved. No portion of this  
manual or any artwork contained herein may be reproduced in any shape or form  
without the express written consent of Harbor Freight Tools.  
For technical questions or replacement parts, please call 1-800-444-3353.  
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cautIOn, used  
with the safety  
alert symbol, indicates a  
hazardous situation which, if  
not avoided, could result in  
minor or moderate injury.  
SaVe tHIS Manual  
cautIOn  
Keep this manual for the safety  
warnings and precautions, assembly,  
operating, inspection, maintenance and  
cleaning procedures. Write the product’s  
serial number in the back of the manual  
near the assembly diagram (or month  
and year of purchase if product has no  
number). Keep this manual and the  
receipt in a safe and dry place for future  
reference.  
nOtIce is used to  
address practices  
not related to personal injury.  
Notice  
cautIOn, without  
cautIOn  
the safety alert  
symbol, is used to address  
practices not related to  
personal injury.  
IMpOrtant SaFetY  
InFOrMatIOn  
In this manual, on the labeling,  
and all other information  
General Safety rules  
warnInG! read all instructions  
Failure to follow all instructions  
listed below may result in  
provided with this product:  
this is the safety alert  
symbol. It is used to alert  
you to potential personal  
injury hazards. Obey all  
safety messages that  
electric shock, fire, and/or  
serious injury. The term “power  
tool” in all of the warnings listed  
below refers to your line-operated  
(corded) Dual MIG Welder.  
follow this symbol to avoid  
possible injury or death.  
SaVe tHeSe InStructIOnS  
1. work area safety  
DanGer indicates  
DanGer  
a. Keep work area clean and well  
lit. Cluttered or dark areas invite  
accidents.  
a hazardous  
situation which, if not  
avoided, will result in death or  
serious injury.  
b. Do not operate power tools in  
explosive atmospheres, such as in  
the presence of flammable liquids,  
gases or dust. Power tools create  
sparks which may ignite the dust or  
fumes.  
warnInG  
indicates a  
warnInG  
hazardous situation which, if  
not avoided, could result in  
death or serious injury.  
c. keep children and bystanders  
away while operating a power  
tool. Distractions can cause you  
to lose control.  
SKU 97503  
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2. electrical safety  
before plugging in. Carrying power  
tools with your finger on the switch  
or plugging in power tools that have  
the switch on invites accidents.  
a. Avoid body contact with grounded  
surfaces such as pipes, radiators,  
ranges and refrigerators. There is  
an increased risk of electric shock if  
your body is grounded.  
d. Remove any adjusting key or wrench  
before turning the power tool on. A  
wrench or a key left attached to a  
rotating part of the power tool may  
result in personal injury.  
b. Do not expose power tools to rain  
or wet conditions. Water entering a  
power tool will increase the risk of  
electric shock.  
e. Do not overreach. Keep proper  
footing and balance at all times.  
This enables better control of the  
power tool in unexpected situations.  
c. Do not abuse the cord. Never use  
the cord for pulling or unplugging the  
power tool. Keep cord away from  
heat, oil, sharp edges or moving  
parts. Damaged or entangled cords  
increase the risk of electric shock.  
4. power tool use and care  
a. Do not force the power tool. Use  
the correct power tool for your  
d. When operating a power tool  
outdoors, use an extension cord  
suitable for outdoor use. Use of  
a cord suitable for outdoor use  
reduces the risk of electric shock.  
application. The correct power tool  
will do the job better and safer at the  
rate for which it was designed.  
b. Do not use the power tool if the  
switch does not turn it on and  
off. Any power tool that cannot  
be controlled with the switch is  
dangerous and must be repaired.  
3. personal safety  
a. Stay alert, watch what you are  
doing and use common sense  
when operating a power tool. Do  
not use a power tool while you are  
tired or under the influence of drugs,  
alcohol or medication. A moment  
of inattention while operating power  
tools may result in serious personal  
injury.  
c. Disconnect the plug from the  
power source before making  
any adjustments, changing  
accessories, or storing power  
tools. Such preventive safety  
measures reduce the risk  
of starting the power tool  
accidentally.  
b. use safety equipment. always  
wear eye protection. Safety  
equipment such as arc shaded,  
impact safety full face shield,  
dust mask or respirator, heavy-  
duty work gloves, non-skid safety  
shoes, or hearing protection used  
for appropriate conditions will  
reduce personal injuries.  
d. Store idle power tools out of  
the reach of children and do not  
allow persons unfamiliar with the  
power tool or these instructions  
to operate the power tool. Power  
tools are dangerous in the hands  
of untrained users.  
e. Maintain power tools. Check for  
misalignment or binding of moving  
parts, breakage of parts and any  
c. Avoid accidental starting. Ensure  
the switch is in the off-position  
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other condition that may affect the  
power tool’s operation. If damaged,  
have the power tool repaired before  
use. Many accidents are caused by  
poorly maintained power tools.  
3. Avoid eye and body damage. Arc  
rays and infrared radiation can  
injure eyes and burn skin. Wear  
ANSI approved eye and body  
protection. Do not allow viewing by  
visitors without proper eye and body  
protection. Use a Face Shield with  
arc shaded filter plate.  
f. Use the power tool, accessories and  
tool bits etc., in accordance with  
these instructions and in the manner  
intended for the particular type of  
power tool, taking into account the  
working conditions and the work to  
be performed. Use of the power tool  
for operations different from those  
intended could result in a hazardous  
situation.  
4. Move flammable and explosive  
material at least 35 feet from the  
welding arc to prevent welding sparks  
or molten metal from starting a fire.  
Keep a type ABC fire extinguisher  
within easy reach. Thoroughly clean  
the object being welded of any paint,  
grease, or other foreign material.  
5. Service  
a. Have your power tool serviced by  
a qualified repair person using only  
identical replacement parts. This will  
ensure that the safety of the power  
tool is maintained.  
5. Avoid unintentional starting. Prepare  
to begin work before turning on the  
tool.  
6. Do not leave the tool unattended  
when it is plugged into an electrical  
outlet. Turn off the tool, and unplug  
it from its electrical outlet before  
leaving.  
Specific Safety Rules  
1. Maintain labels and nameplates on  
the tool. These carry important safety  
information. If unreadable or missing,  
contact Harbor Freight Tools for a  
replacement.  
7. Use clamps (not included) or other  
practical ways to secure and support  
the work piece to a stable platform.  
Holding the work by hand or against  
your body is unstable and may lead  
to loss of control.  
2. Avoid electrical shock. Do not permit  
electrically live parts, cables, or  
electrodes to contact skin, clothing,  
or gloves. Wear ANSI-approved  
protective clothing. This unit draws  
enough current to cause serious  
injury or death. Before turning the  
welder on, check the electrode  
holder to be sure that there are no  
protruding screw heads, and that  
all insulation is secure. Do not weld  
unless you are insulated from ground  
and the work piece.  
8. This product is not a toy. Keep it out  
of reach of children.  
9. Industrial applications must follow  
OSHA guidelines.  
10. People with pacemakers should  
consult their physician(s) before  
use. Electromagnetic fields in close  
proximity to heart pacemaker could  
cause pacemaker interference or  
pacemaker failure. In addition,  
people with pacemakers should:  
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• Avoid operating alone.  
Always use proper procedures to  
• Do not use with power switch locked  
on.  
• Properly maintain and inspect to  
avoid electrical shock.  
• Any power cord must be properly  
grounded. Ground Fault Circuit  
Interrupter (GFCI) should also be  
implemented – it prevents sustained  
electrical shock.  
move cylinders.  
13.  
Prevent eye injury and  
burns. Wearing and using  
ANSI-approved personal  
safety clothing and safety  
devices reduce the risk for  
injury.  
Wear ANSI-approved safety eye  
goggles underneath welding eye  
protection featuring at least a  
Number 10 shade lens rating.  
11. WARNING: This product, when used  
for welding, plasma cutting, soldering,  
or similar applications, produces  
chemicals known to the State of  
California to cause cancer and birth  
defects (or other reproductive harm).  
(California Health & Safety Code §  
25249.5, et seq.)  
• Leather leggings, fire resistant  
shoes or boots should be worn  
when using this product. Do not  
wear pants with cuffs, shirts with  
open pockets, or any clothing that  
can catch and hold molten metal or  
sparks.  
Keep clothing free of grease,  
oil, solvents, or any flammable  
substances. Wear dry, insulating  
gloves and protective clothing.  
12.  
Cylinders can explode  
when damaged:  
Never weld on a pressurized or a  
closed cylinder.  
Wear an approved head covering  
to protect the head and neck. Use  
aprons, cape, sleeves, shoulder  
covers, and bibs designed and  
approved for welding and cutting  
procedures.  
Never lay a welding torch on a  
cylinder.  
Never allow a welding electrode to  
touch the cylinder.  
Keep cylinders away from any  
electrical circuits, including welding  
circuits.  
When welding/cutting overhead  
or in confined spaces, wear flame  
resistant ear plugs or ear muffs to  
keep sparks out of ears.  
Keep protective cap in place over  
the valve except when the cylinder  
is in use.  
14.  
Prevent accidental fires.  
Remove any combustible  
material from the work  
area.  
Use only correct gas shielding  
equipment designed specifically  
for the type of welding you will do.  
Maintain this equipment properly.  
When possible, move the work to a  
location well away from combustible  
materials. If relocation is not  
Protect gas cylinders from heat,  
being struck, physical damage,  
slag, flames, sparks, and arcs.  
possible, protect the combustibles  
SKU 97503  
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with a cover made of fire resistant  
material.  
gases, vapors, liquids, and dust.  
Provide adequate ventilation in  
work areas to prevent accumulation  
of flammable gases, vapors, and  
dust. Do not apply heat to a  
Remove or make safe all  
combustible materials for a radius  
of 35 feet (10 meters) around the  
work area. Use a fire resistant  
material to cover or block all open  
doorways, windows, cracks, and  
other openings.  
container that has held an unknown  
substance or a combustible  
material whose contents, when  
heated, can produce flammable or  
explosive vapors. Clean and purge  
containers before applying heat.  
Vent closed containers, including  
castings, before preheating,  
Enclose the work area with portable  
fire resistant screens. Protect  
combustible walls, ceilings, floors,  
etc., from sparks and heat with fire  
resistant covers.  
welding, or cutting.  
15. Do not touch live electrical parts.  
Wear dry, insulating gloves. Do not  
touch electrode or conductor tong  
with bare hand. Do not wear wet or  
damaged gloves.  
If working on a metal wall,  
ceiling, etc., prevent ignition of  
combustibles on the other side  
by moving the combustibles to  
a safe location. If relocation of  
combustibles is not possible,  
designate someone to serve as  
a fire watch, equipped with a fire  
extinguisher, during the cutting  
process and for at least one half  
hour after the cutting is completed.  
16. Protect yourself from electric shock.  
Do not use outdoors. Insulate  
yourself from the work piece and  
ground. Use nonflammable, dry  
insulating material if possible, or  
use dry rubber mats, dry wood or  
plywood, or other dry insulating  
material big enough to cover your  
full area of contact with the work or  
ground.  
Do not weld or cut materials  
having a combustible coating or  
combustible internal structure,  
as in walls or ceilings, without an  
approved method for eliminating the  
hazard.  
17. Ensure that the unit is placed on a  
stable location before use. If this unit  
falls while plugged in, severe injury,  
electric shock, or fire may result.  
Do not dispose of hot slag in  
containers holding combustible  
materials. Keep a fire extinguisher  
nearby and know how to use it.  
18. Ground this product. This Welder  
requires the attachment and use of a  
UL-listed, 240 volt grounded, 3-prong,  
electrical Power Cord Plug (not  
After spot welding, make a  
thorough examination for evidence  
of fire. Be aware that easily-  
visible smoke or flame may not  
be present for some time after  
the fire has started. Do not weld  
or cut in atmospheres containing  
dangerously reactive or flammable  
included). Only a qualified electrician  
should install the Power Cord Plug.  
Never remove the grounding prong  
or modify the Power Cord Plug in any  
SKU 97503  
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way. Do not use adapter plugs with  
this product.  
warnInG  
19. Avoid overexposure to fumes and  
gases. Always keep your head out  
of the fumes. Do not breathe the  
fumes. Use enough ventilation or  
exhaust, or both, to keep fumes and  
gases from your breathing zone and  
general area.  
InHalatIOn HazarD:  
welding and plasma cutting produce  
tOxIc FuMeS.  
Exposure to welding or cutting  
• Where ventilation is questionable,  
have a qualified technician take  
an air sampling to determine the  
need for corrective measures. Use  
mechanical ventilation to improve  
air quality. If engineering controls  
are not feasible, use an approved  
respirator.  
exhaust fumes can increase the risk  
of developing certain cancers, such as  
cancer of the larynx and lung cancer.  
Also, some diseases that may be linked  
to exposure to welding or plasma cutting  
exhaust fumes are:  
• Early onset of Parkinson’s Disease  
• Heart disease  
• Damage to the reproductive organs  
• Inflammation of the small intestine or  
• Ulcers  
Follow OSHA guidelines for  
Permissible Exposure Limits (PEL’s)  
for various fumes and gases.  
stomach  
• Respiratory diseases such as  
emphysema, bronchitis, or pneumonia  
• Kidney damage  
Follow the American Conference of  
Governmental Industrial Hygienists  
recommendations for Threshold  
Limit Values (TLV’s) for fumes and  
gases.  
Use natural or forced air ventilation and  
wear a respirator approved by NIOSH to  
protect against the fumes produced to  
reduce the risk of developing the above  
illnesses.  
Have a recognized specialist in  
Industrial Hygiene or Environmental  
Services check the operation  
and air quality and make  
20. The warnings, precautions,  
and instructions discussed in  
this instruction manual cannot  
cover all possible conditions and  
situations that may occur. It must  
be understood by the operator that  
common sense and caution are  
factors which cannot be built into this  
product, but must be supplied by the  
operator.  
recommendations for the specific  
welding or cutting situation.  
SaVe tHeSe  
InStructIOnS.  
SKU 97503  
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SpecIFIcatIOnS  
InItIal Set up  
InStructIOnS  
Welding Current  
30 ~ 120 amps  
20% at 105 amps;  
40% at 75 amps;  
90% at 50 amps;  
100% at 30 amps  
read the entIre IMpOrtant  
SaFetY InFOrMatIOn section  
at the beginning of this manual  
including all text under  
subheadings therein before set  
up or use of this product.  
Duty Cycle  
230 VAC, 21 amps  
(Peak) at 60 Hz  
Input Power  
Open Circuit Voltage  
(max)  
36 VDC  
tO preVent  
SerIOuS InjurY  
FrOM accIDental  
Automatic shutdown  
and restart after cool  
down  
warnInG  
Thermal Overload  
Protection with Light  
OperatIOn:  
0.023 to 0.030 inch  
steel and stainless  
steel; 0.030 to 0.035  
inch flux core and  
aluminum  
turn the power Switch of the  
tool to its “OFF” position and  
unplug the tool from its  
electrical outlet before  
assembling or making any  
adjustments to the tool.  
Wire Size  
22 gauge to 3/16”  
Steel  
Welding Capacity  
Wire Spool Size  
Weight  
2 lb. Spool  
62.2 lbs.  
note: For additional information regarding  
the parts listed in the following pages,  
refer to the Assembly Diagram near  
the end of this manual.  
unpackInG  
When unpacking, check to make sure  
that the item is intact and undamaged. If  
any parts are missing or broken, please  
call Harbor Freight Tools at the number  
shown on the cover of this manual as soon  
as possible.  
assembly  
1. Slide the Axle (29) through the holes  
at the rear of the unit.  
2. Secure both Wheels (28) to the Axle  
with the Locking Rings (42).  
list of contents  
3. Lift up the Side Panel B (1) to  
expose the wire spool and Wire  
Feed Mechanism (10). Pull back on  
the Feed Tensioner (CC) to free the  
Feed Tension Arm (DD) and lift it up.  
Remove Wire Feed Wheel Cover  
(AA) screws, pull out the cover, and  
pull out the Wire Feed Wheel (BB).  
See photo page 10.  
Description  
Dual MIG Welder  
Qty  
1
Wheel  
2
Axle  
1
0.030” (0.8mm) Welding Tip  
0.040 (1.0mm) Welding Tip  
2 Pounds (0.030”) Flux Core Wire  
Hand Held Shaded Face Shield  
Brush Hammer  
1
1
1
1
4. Note the two parallel grooves (one  
is wider) on the circumference of the  
Wire Feed Wheel (BB). On the sides  
1
Welder Tip Close End Wrench  
24” Strap For Gas Bottle  
1
2
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of the wheel, reference markings  
0.6 or 0.8 are stamped. They  
8. Twist off and pull to remove the  
Nozzle and unscrew the Contact tip  
of the Welder.  
corresponding with wire sizes: 0.6 =  
0.023”, and 0.8 = 0.030” and 0.035”.  
The groove facing to the inside of the  
Wire Feed Mechanism (10) should  
correspond with the size of wire used.  
Align the axle key with the slot in the  
Wire Feed Wheel and slide on the  
Wire Feed Spool (BB). Replace Wire  
Feed Wheel Cover (AA), the two  
screws and tighten. See photo on  
this page.  
(DD)  
(EE)  
(FF)  
(CC)  
(BB)  
(AA)  
5. Lay the Welding Torch Cable (16) in  
a straight line, perpendicular to the  
welder unit, as much as possible.  
This will prevent the wire from  
puncturing the Welding Torch Cable  
(16) when exiting the Wire Feed  
Housing Throat (FF). See photo on  
this page.  
9.  
Guide the tip through the feed tube  
until it protrudes the Wire Feed  
Wheel opening. Direct and feed at  
least an inch of wire into the Wire  
Feed Housing Throat (FF).  
6. Remove the wing nut and the spool  
axle nut from the Wire Spool Axle  
(10). Make sure that the coil spring  
is inserted onto the Spool Axle, and  
place a spool with wire over the axle,  
noting that the wire winding must  
be in a counterclockwise direction.  
Replace the Spool Axle Nut (10),  
the wing nut, and tighten. Verify free  
rotation of the spool over the axle.  
10. Close Wire Feed Mechanism (10)  
over the wire, and adjust Feed  
Tension Knob (D) until there is a  
slight resistance on the wire.  
11. Remove the nozzle and contact tip of  
the Welder.  
the following  
steps require  
DanGer  
applying power to the welder.  
Do not touch anything with  
the torch Handle or welding  
wire or an arc will be ignited.  
Do not touch the internal  
components of the unit while  
it is powered.  
loading and adjusting the wire tension.  
7. cautIOn: Hold onto the end of the  
Welding Wire and keep tension on it  
during the following steps. If this is  
not done the Welding Wire will spring  
backward and tangle. The end of the  
wire should be straight and have no  
burrs.  
12. Plug the Power Cord into a grounded  
230 volt electrical outlet and turn the  
Welder ON.  
13. Point the Torch Handle away from all  
objects. Squeeze the Trigger Switch  
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on the Torch Handle until the Welding 20. Close the Side Panel B (1).  
Wire feeds into the Torch Handle  
about 2 inches. If necessary, move  
the Torch Handle slightly in a circular  
motion to help feed the Welding Wire  
properly out of the Head Tube.  
Connections  
14. If the Welding Wire does not feed  
and the Spool is stationary, turn the  
Welder off and unplug it. Tighten  
the Tension Adjusting Knob on the  
Wire Feed Assembly, and rewind the  
Welding Wire slightly before retrying.  
15. Feed the Welding Wire against scrap  
wood that is 2 to 3 inches away. If  
Installing a gas cylinder  
the Wire stops instead of bending,  
turn the Welder OFF and unplug it.  
Tighten the Tension Adjusting Knob  
more.  
21. Do not use an Argon/Mixed pressure  
regulator/flow meter with CO2  
shielding gas. To use CO2 shielding  
gas, you must install a CO2 gas  
pressure regulator/flow meter (neither  
one included).  
16. Turn the Welder OFF, unplug it, and  
discharge the electrode to ground.  
Insert the contact tip onto the Welding  
Wire and screw it firmly in place.  
22. Thread the provided straps through  
the slots on the back of the welder.  
With assistance, set the cylinder onto  
the shelf at the back of the welder.  
Replace the Nozzle and cut off any  
excess Welding Wire over 1/2 inch.  
17. Check that +/– cables to connection  
Knobs (34) are correct. See photo  
this page.  
23. Secure the cylinder in place with both  
of the straps.  
18. When using Non-flux wire and  
Protective gas, connect Ground cable  
with clamp to the “-” terminal and the  
Internal Power cable to “+” terminal.  
Strap down the Argon / CO2 gas  
cylinder and connect the hose to the  
rear of the MIG Welder.  
24. Remove the protective cap from the  
cylinder. Stand to the side of the  
cylinder valve, and open the valve  
slightly to blow dust and dirt from the  
valve. Close the valve.  
25. Make sure the Flow Adjust on the  
Pressure Regulator/Flow Meter  
is turned off. Screw the Pressure  
Regulator/Flow Meter (not included)  
firmly onto the cylinder valve.  
19. When using Flux-core wire (DO NOT  
USE Protective gas), connect Ground  
cable with clamp to “+” terminal,  
and the internal Power cable to “-”  
terminal.  
26. Attach the Gas Line to the Pressure  
Regulator/Flow Meter from the Gas  
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Inlet located on the Back Panel of the  
Welder.  
the power cord to possible damage.  
The power cord must reach the work  
area with enough extra length to  
allow free movement while working.  
27. Adjust the flow rate of the gas by  
turning the Flow Adjust. The typical  
flow rate is 10-30 CFH (cubic feet  
per hour). Check the Welding Wire  
manufacturer’s recommended flow  
rate.  
3. Secure loose work pieces using  
a vise or clamps (not included) to  
prevent movement while working.  
The work pieces should be firmly  
held together and in position while  
welding. The distance (if any)  
between the two work pieces must  
be controlled properly to allow the  
weld to hold both sides securely while  
allowing the weld to penetrate fully  
into the joint.  
28. Installation of a line-in, where  
necessary, and connecting a  
twist-lock plug to the power cord  
must be performed by a licensed  
electrician.  
OperatInG InStructIOnS  
4. There must not be hazardous  
objects, such as utility lines or foreign  
objects, nearby that will present a  
hazard while working.  
read the entIre IMpOrtant  
SaFetY InFOrMatIOn section  
at the beginning of this manual  
including all text under  
subheadings therein before set  
up or use of this product.  
5. A barrier, such as a welding curtain  
or welding shroud should be put up  
to protect others in the work area and  
limit the spray of sparks.  
tool Set up  
General Operating Instructions  
tO preVent  
SerIOuS InjurY  
FrOM accIDental  
OperatIOn:  
turn the switch to its off  
position before performing  
any inspection, maintenance,  
or cleaning procedures.  
warnInG  
protective gear  
must be worn  
DanGer  
when using the MIG welder;  
anSI-approved, arc shaded,  
eye protection, a full face  
shield, heavy-duty work  
gloves, a welding apron,  
respirator, and heavy-duty  
work clothes without pockets  
should be worn when using  
this product. Do not look at  
the ignited arc without eye  
protection. light from the arc  
can cause permanent damage  
to the eyes. light from the  
arc can burn the skin. Do not  
breathe arc fumes.  
work piece and work area Set up  
1. Designate a work area that is clean  
and well-lit. The work area must not  
allow access by children or pets to  
prevent injury and distraction.  
2. Route the power cord along a safe  
route to reach the work area without  
creating a tripping hazard or exposing  
SKU 97503  
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1. Always read and follow wire  
manufacturer’s recommended  
polarity. If using non-flux core wire,  
secure the Argon/CO2 gas hose to  
the rear of the MIG Welder. (If using  
flux core wire, protective gas is not  
required.)  
2. Attach the Ground Cable with Clamp  
(14) as close as possible to the metal  
object to be welded.  
The duty cycle defines the number of  
minutes, within a 10 minute period, during  
which a given Welder can safely produce  
a particular welding current. For example,  
this Welder, with a 20% duty cycle at 105  
Amps (setting Max 2), must be allowed  
to rest for at least 8 minutes after two  
minutes of continuous weld at 105 Amps.  
3. Set the desired current (30~120  
amps) for the type of metal being  
welded with the Temperature  
Controller. Thin metals use low  
current and heavy metals use high  
current.  
Failure to carefully observe duty  
cycle limitations can stress a  
Welder’s power generation system,  
contributing to premature Welder  
failure.  
Set Switch amps Duty Volts  
cycle  
Min. / 1  
Min. / 2  
Max. / 1  
Max. / 2  
30  
100%  
90%  
40%  
20%  
15.2  
16.5  
17.7  
19.2  
50  
75  
105  
• This Welder is equipped with an  
internal thermal protection system  
to help prevent damage to the  
unit. When the unit overheats; it  
automatically shuts down, then  
returns to service when it cools  
down.  
4. Make sure the power switch is off,  
then plug the MIG Welder Power  
Cord into a dedicated, 230 VAC, 20  
amp line with delayed action type  
circuit breaker or fuses.  
5. While holding the Welding Torch  
handle, with the electrode wire clear  
of grounded objects, turn the Power  
Switch ON.  
Once the unit returns to service,  
follow a more conservative duty  
cycle routine to help prevent excess  
wear to the Welder.  
6. Momentarily press the Welding Torch  
trigger switch to test the wire feed  
speed. Adjust the speed by turning  
the Wire Speed Knob.  
7. Hold the Arc Shaded Face Shield  
over your eyes.  
8. Press (and hold) the Torch Trigger  
Switch and stroke the area to be  
SKU 97503  
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welded with the electrode wire  
to ignite the arc. Never tap the  
electrode wire into the welding  
surface to ignite the arc.  
14. When the weld is complete, lift the  
Welding Torch handle away from any  
grounded object, remove your Face  
Shield, and turn the power Switch  
OFF.  
9. The Welding Wire should extend no  
more than 1/2” past the Nozzle of the 15. Unplug the power cord from the  
Welding Torch.  
electrical outlet.  
10. The Welding Wire should be directed  
straight into the joint. This gives an  
angle of 90 degrees (straight up and  
down) for groove (end to end) welds,  
and an angle of 45 degrees for fillet  
(T-shaped) welds.  
16. Read the included weld diagnosis  
pamphlet for tips and suggestions  
concerning welding and proper  
usage.  
17. To prevent accidents, turn off the  
tool and disconnect its power supply  
after use. Clean, then store the  
tool indoors out of children’s and  
unauthorized people’s reach.  
11. The end of the Welding Torch should  
be tilted so that the Welding Wire is  
angled anywhere in between straight  
on and 15 degrees in the direction of  
the weld. The amount of tilt is called  
the “drag angle”.  
12. The wire feeds automatically, and  
can be changed using the Wire  
Speed Knob.  
13. If too much current is drawn from  
the MIG Welder, the overload  
protection will activate, the red  
overload indicator will light, and the  
Arc Welder will shut down. If this  
happens, turn the power Switch OFF  
and wait about 3 ~ 5 minutes before  
restarting.  
SKU 97503  
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SKU 97503  
For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353.  
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compressed air, blow out all dust and  
debris from the interior.  
MaIntenance anD  
SerVIcInG  
4.  
warnInG! If the supply cord of  
this power tool is damaged, it must  
be replaced only by a qualified  
service technician.  
Procedures not specifically  
explained in this manual  
must be performed only by a  
qualified technician.  
nozzle care  
tO preVent  
SerIOuS InjurY  
FrOM accIDental  
OperatIOn:  
warnInG  
1. Turn the Nozzle counterclockwise  
while pulling to remove.  
turn the power Switch of the  
tool to its “OFF” position and  
unplug the tool from its  
electrical outlet before  
performing any inspection,  
maintenance, or cleaning  
procedures.  
2. Scrub the interior of the Nozzle clean  
with a wire brush.  
3. Examine the end of the Nozzle. The  
end should be flat and even. If the  
end is uneven, chipped, melted,  
cracked, or otherwise damaged, the  
Nozzle will adversely effect the weld  
and should be replaced.  
tO preVent SerIOuS  
InjurY FrOM tOOl  
FaIlure:  
Do not use damaged  
equipment. If abnormal noise  
or vibration occurs, have the  
problem corrected before  
further use.  
4. Replace the Nozzle after inspecting  
and cleaning the Contact Tip  
contact tip care  
1. Make sure the entire Welding Torch is  
completely cool before proceeding.  
cleaning, Maintenance, and  
lubrication  
2. Remove the Nozzle, as explained  
above, and the Contact Tip.  
3. Scrub the exterior of the Contact Tip  
clean with a wire brush. Check that  
the Contact Tip is the proper type for  
the wire size used.  
1. beFOre eacH uSe, inspect the  
general condition of the tool. Check  
for loose screws, misalignment or  
binding of moving parts, cracked or  
broken parts, damaged electrical  
wiring, and any other condition that  
may affect its safe operation.  
4. Examine the hole at the end of  
the Contact Tip for the following  
problems:  
2. aFter uSe, clean external surfaces  
Shape: The hole should be an even  
circle, and should not be oblong or  
have any bulges in it.  
of the tool with clean cloth.  
3. perIODIcallY, open the Access  
Size: The Contact Tip will decrease  
Panel (12) from the unit and, using  
in efficiency as the center hole  
SKU 97503  
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enlarges. A Contact Tip that  
measures 150% or more the  
original size* should be replaced.  
(*.045” or more for .030” Tips; .035”  
or more for .023 Tips.)  
8. Attach the Fitting at the end of the  
Liner to the Push-lock Coupler on the  
Switch Body.  
9. Slide the Liner Sleeve back onto the  
end of the liner. Reinstall the Cable  
Clamp and Screws. Trim off the Liner  
that extends past the Clamp.  
5. If any problems are noted with a  
Contact Tip, have it replaced.  
6. When inspection and maintenance is 10. Make sure that all torch parts lay  
completed, reinstall the Contact Tip  
and Nozzle.  
back into place properly including  
the Protective Sleeve, Head Tube,  
and Trigger. See Assembly Diagram.  
While all parts are properly in place,  
carefully put the Upper Housing back  
onto the Lower Housing and slide  
back to secure. Slide the Locking  
Collar back onto the Housings and  
twist to secure.  
replacing the welding torch  
liner  
1. Switch welder off, disconnect power,  
and discharge electrode to ground  
before proceeding.  
2. Secure welding wire to the spool, cut  
it near the spool, and remove it from  
the torch and cable.  
11. Check the Torch carefully for proper  
operation.  
12. Route the Wire as instructed in the  
Loading and Adjusting the Wire  
Tension Section.  
3. Gently twist and slide the Locking  
Collar off the torch and onto the  
Protective Sleeve. Slide the Upper  
Housing forward and off the Lower  
Housing.  
4. Remove the four Screws that hold the  
Cable Clamp in place. Set aside the  
Cable Clamp, Screws, and the Liner  
Sleeve underneath the cable clamp.  
5. Lay torch cable out straight to allow  
the cable to twist within the sleeve.  
6. Press in on the Push-lock Coupler  
and remove the Liner from the gun  
end.  
7. Install a new Liner and Fitting from  
the gun end with the end without a  
Fitting first.  
SKU 97503  
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welding arc not stable.  
trOubleSHOOtInG  
Possible Causes and Solutions:  
DanGer  
Important! Be  
Wire not feeding properly:  
See first Troubleshooting section  
above.  
CERTAIN to shut off the Welder,  
disconnect it from power, and  
discharge the torch to ground before  
adjusting, cleaning, or repairing the  
unit.  
Incorrect contact tip size:  
Replace with the proper tip for the  
wire size used.  
Incorrect wire feed speed:  
Adjust wire feed speed to achieve a  
more stable arc.  
wire feed motor runs but wire does not  
feed properly.  
Possible Causes and Solutions:  
Loose torch cable or ground cable:  
Check to ensure that all  
connections are tight.  
• Insufficient wire feed pressure:  
Increase wire feed pressure.  
Incorrect wire feed roll size:  
Replace with the proper size.  
Damaged torch or loose connection  
within torch:  
Damaged torch, cable, or liner  
assembly:  
Have a qualified technician inspect  
and repair/replace as necessary.  
Have a qualified technician  
inspect these parts and replace as  
necessary.  
welder does not function when  
switched on  
Possible Causes and Solutions:  
wire creates a bird’s nest During  
operation.  
Tripped thermal protection device:  
Shut the welder’s switch to off  
and allow it to cool for at least 20  
minutes.  
Reduce duration or frequency of  
welding periods to help reduce wear  
on the welder.  
Possible Causes and Solutions:  
Excess wire feed pressure:  
Adjust wire feed pressure.  
Incorrect contact tip size:  
Replace with the proper tip for the  
wire size used.  
Refer to Duty Cycle section.  
Faulty or improperly connected  
Switch Body:  
Have a technician check and  
secure/replace Switch Body.  
Gun end not inserted into drive  
housing properly:  
Loosen gun securing bolt and push  
gun end into housing just enough  
so that it does not touch wire feed  
mechanism.  
Internal fuse blown:  
Have a qualified technician check/  
replace.  
Damaged liner:  
Have a qualified technician inspect  
and repair/replace as necessary.  
weak arc strength  
Possible Cause and Solution:  
SKU 97503  
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Incorrect line voltage:  
pleaSe reaD tHe FOllOwInG  
careFullY  
Check the line voltage and, if  
insufficient, have a licensed  
electrician remedy the situation.  
THE MANUFACTURER AND/OR DISTRIBUTOR  
HASPROVIDEDTHEPARTSLISTANDASSEMBLy  
DIAGRAM IN THIS MANUAL AS A REFERENCE  
TOOLONLy. NEITHER THE MANUFACTURER OR  
DISTRIBUTOR MAKES ANy REPRESENTATION  
OR WARRANTy OF ANy KIND TO THE BUyER  
THAT HE OR SHE IS qUALIFIED TO MAKE ANy  
REPAIRS TO THE PRODUCT, OR THAT HE OR  
SHE IS qUALIFIED TO REPLACE ANy PARTS OF  
THE PRODUCT. IN FACT, THE MANUFACTURER  
AND/OR DISTRIBUTOR ExPRESSLy STATES  
THATALLREPAIRSANDPARTSREPLACEMENTS  
SHOULD BE UNDERTAKEN By CERTIFIED AND  
LICENSED TECHNICIANS, AND NOT By THE  
BUyER. THE BUyER ASSUMES ALL RISK AND  
LIABILITyARISINGOUTOFHISORHERREPAIRS  
TOTHEORIGINALPRODUCTORREPLACEMENT  
PARTS THERETO, OR ARISING OUT OF HIS OR  
HER INSTALLATION OF REPLACEMENT PARTS  
THERETO.  
wire Feeds, but arc does not ignite  
Possible Causes and Solutions:  
Improper ground connection:  
Make certain that the work piece is  
contacted properly by the Ground  
Clamp and that the work piece is  
properly cleaned near the ground  
clamp and the welding location.  
Improperly sized or excessively  
worn Contact Tip:  
Verify that Contact Tip is the proper  
size for the welding wire used.  
Check that the hole in the tip is  
not deformed, enlarged, or dirty. If  
needed, replace Contact Tip with  
proper size and type.  
wire Feeds, but Shielding gas does not  
Flow  
Possible Causes and Solutions:  
Empty Gas Cylinder:  
Check gas cylinder.  
Nozzle Plugged:  
Clean nozzle. If damaged, replace.  
Regulator or cylinder valve closed:  
Make sure both valves are adjusted  
properly.  
Gas line blocked:  
Check external hose, and hose  
within Torch cable.  
Gas solenoid broken or not  
connected properly:  
Have a qualified technician check/  
replace.  
SKU 97503  
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partS lISt anD aSSeMblY DIaGraM  
Description  
Part  
1
Part  
22  
Description  
Filter Reactor  
Side Panel B  
2
Hinge  
23  
Main Transformer  
Transformer Carriage  
Bottom Plate  
Plastic Foot  
3
Handle Socket  
Straight Handle  
Fan  
24  
4
25  
5
26  
6
Back Panel  
27  
Axle Bracket  
Wheel, Plastic  
Axle  
7
Rectifier Rack  
Clap Panel  
28  
8
29  
Wire Spool Axle  
Wire Feed Mechanism  
Wire Feed Wheel  
Side Panel A  
Power Cord  
9
30 Temperature Controller  
10  
11  
12  
13  
14  
15  
16  
17  
18  
19  
20  
21  
31  
32  
33  
34  
35  
36  
37  
38  
39  
40  
41  
42  
Control Circuit Board Bracket  
Control Circuit Board  
Potentiometer  
Knob  
Ground Cable With Clamp  
Welding Torch / Cable  
Cover  
Nut, Copper, M6  
Washer, Spring, 6  
Washer, Copper, Plain,6  
Washer, Insulating, 1  
Screw, Copper, M6X35  
Washer, Insulating, 2  
Brace  
Wire Speed Knob  
Switch  
Overload Light  
Cable Nib  
Rings, 8  
Front Panel  
10  
7
6
8
9
11  
12  
5
33  
32  
31  
34  
13  
14  
4
40  
35  
41  
36  
39  
38  
37  
3
2
1
21  
20  
19  
18  
17  
16  
15  
22  
23  
30  
24  
25  
29  
28  
27  
26  
42  
SKU 97503  
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lIMIteD 1 Year / 90 DaY warrantY  
Harbor Freight Tools Co. makes every effort to assure that its products meet high  
quality and durability standards, and warrants to the original purchaser that for a period of  
ninety days from date of purchase that the torch, liner, wire feed mechanism (if applicable),  
welding clamps, electrode holders, cables and accessories packed with the welder are  
free of defects in materials and workmanship. this limited 90 Day/1 Year warranty  
shall not apply to consumable parts such as tips, welding wire, and gas nozzles.  
Harbor Freight Tools also warrants to the original purchaser, for a period of one year from  
date of purchase, that the transformer and rectifier are free from defects in materials and  
workmanship (90 days if used by a professional contractor or if used as rental equipment).  
This warranty does not apply to damage due directly or indirectly to misuse, abuse,  
negligence or accidents, repairs or alterations outside our facilities, normal wear and tear,  
or to lack of maintenance. We shall in no event be liable for death, injuries to persons or  
property, or for incidental, contingent, special or consequential damages arising from the  
use of our product. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or  
consequential damages, so the above limitation of exclusion may not apply to you. THIS  
WARRANTy IS ExPRESSLy IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, ExPRESS OR  
IMPLIED, INCLUDING THE WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITy AND FITNESS.  
To take advantage of this warranty, the product or part must be returned to us with  
transportation charges prepaid. Proof of purchase date and an explanation of the complaint  
must accompany the merchandise. If our inspection verifies the defect, we will either  
repair or replace the product at our election or we may elect to refund the purchase price  
if we cannot readily and quickly provide you with a replacement. We will return repaired  
products at our expense, but if we determine there is no defect, or that the defect resulted  
from causes not within the scope of our warranty, then you must bear the cost of returning  
the product.  
This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may also have other rights which  
vary from state to state.  
3491 Mission Oaks Blvd. • PO Box 6009 • Camarillo, CA 93011 • (800) 444-3353  
record product’s Serial number Here:  
note: If product has no serial number, record month and year of purchase instead.  
note: Some parts are listed and shown for illustration purposes only, and are not  
available individually as replacement parts.  
SKU 97503  
For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353.  
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