Lincoln Electric Pro MIG 140-Amp Welder...good or bad for a total noob??

[k1rodeoboater]

Would this be a good welder to get to do sheet metal repair and general "I'm bored and feeling creative" welding (no frame or structural stuff)?

http://www.lowes.com/pd_256722-1703-...1#BVRRWidgetID

I'm a complete NOOB to welding; I've never held a welding gun in my life. Regardless I want to learn how to weld and I'm using my truck as a giant learning experience. I know she won't be show quality, I don't have the time or money for that, but I bought her as a challenge/project/excuse to learn new things (it seemed like a good idea at the time ). If this welder is complete crap I'll use the gift cards on other tools instead.

I can get that welder for $373.50 before tax brand new from Lowes. And no I'm not working any crazy drug deals. My dad hooked me up with $100 in gift cards to Lowes (thanks to Discover's cash back program) as well as a $10 off $50 or more purchase coupon (to bad he kept the $25 off $250 coupon). I've also got another $65.99 in visa gift cards (gotta love mail in rebates), plus the 10% discount for being active duty military, so really I could walk away with that welder for $307.51 + tax



One thing I do have to mention...this welder is going to be stored in my truck so theft is a possibility. I'd like to say I'd bring it in every night but I know myself and that ain't gonna happen. I may store it at a friends place where I'll be doing a lot of the work on my truck.