Thanks Oleg, for the 2013 PowerPro 256s

[Big Paulie]

Just got the new PP256s delivered. Had an earlier machine (210EXT) that came in from Amazon DOA, and Oleg stepped in to not only replace, but upgrade it to a 2013 model PP256s (actually same List price). I really liked the 210EXT, as it is more compact, appears better build, and very precise for low amp welding, and had better power factor correction for use with portable generators. BUT: I needed a new Plasma (Pilot Arc), and the extra power of the 256s will come in handy on the thicker stuff. Really labored over the decision but now that I got the PP256s, am satisfied that I did not make a big mistake. Note: I needed a Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter for Expanded and dirty metal that I work with. As I understand it, this model is not warranted for use in CNC Tables, but I am not there (yet).


First of All:

Shipping via UPS:

Box came in with no apparent damage, so I guess the UPS Boys in Brown laid off the volleyball. I think the lighter packages really do get tossed, this sucker is 85lbs, so if someone wanted to toss it around, I would not want to face them down.

Packaging:

All came in one box, with all the accessories in an internal box to keep them from rattling around. Welder was well padded with the typical PVC Foam molding and plastic wrapper. Also, a nice touch: the molded L50 power plug blades were jammed into the foam so it too would not rattle around and bang against the welder.

Options Included:

Tramifet S75 Plasma Torch, WP20 Euro Styled Water Cooled Tig Torch, minimal consumables (5 sets of Plasma nozzles and electrodes, no extra ceramic cups though, Tig consumables less the actual tungsten. Ground Lead, Euro Styled (twist) Stick Electrode Holder, Reg/Flow Meter, Water/oil Seperater/Regulator for the air supply. Extra Gas and Water Hose material, clamps.

I also opted for a WP26 Air Cooled Tig Torch with Amptrol. Not that impressed with the Amptrol, as it requires a lot of force to adjust and is fairly small to grab with Gloves. Guess I will try it and see if I can get used to in in actual use. Got this, as I do not yet have a cooler, and wanted to use the machine at lower power until I either built one, or got the W300 Cooler from Everlast.

This unit is Huge, and I will need to build a new welding cart. The HF Cheapie that I have would need a top shelf extended by several inches, and the front and rear end caps of the PP256 ARE the feet, so the top shelf needs to be 25" x 10" minimum. One option is to Glue some rubber feet to the bottom of the case, so it rests on the shelf, but I want to build a cart that it will fit right, and that will hold 2 tanks (Ar and Trimix).

Also, I noted that it is quieter than the 250EX as the duty cycle on this machine is only 35% vs 60% for the 250EX (Hmm, I have a 2000CFM Dust Collector for my woodworking, it has a 4" diameter hose, add a flange to fit the back of the 256s, and raise the duty cycle to 150% !!! (just kidding Oleg).

I powered it up, after the shake test, (rattles), and it passed the smoke test (no smoke). So far so good. I'll be testing all the functions this evening, have to focus on my day job to pay for this.

[Mr120]

Looks to me that you will make good use of the plasma cutter and extra power. Good matchup. I look forward to seeing the projects you create.

[Rambozo]

Was that the standard torch or was that an extra? Did it come with a foot pedal?

[Big Paulie]

Was that the standard torch or was that an extra? Did it come with a foot pedal?

The photo is of the extra torch that I ordered (Gas Cooled with Amptrol). There is also the water cooled torch that is supplied with the unit, I did not bother to photograph, but will if you would like. also, Yes it does come with a foot pedal (large size). I wanted the air cooled with amptrol as an option to the foot pedal and water cooler need.

[Rambozo]

The photo is of the extra torch that I ordered (Gas Cooled with Amptrol). There is also the water cooled torch that is supplied with the unit, I did not bother to photograph, but will if you would like. also, Yes it does come with a foot pedal (large size). I wanted the air cooled with amptrol as an option to the foot pedal and water cooler need.

Thanks for the clarification. Do they still ship an 18 water-cooled torch instead of the 20? I've always wondered why since it will handle 250 amps and is a lot more compact. The 26 is a nice option for extra heavy duty air cooled. I have a Lincoln V26 that still gets used from time to time and is super rugged. I'm not sure of the exact rating and duty cycle, but I know I've put over 200 amps through it on occasion. It's a club, but it gets the job done.

[Big Paulie]

Rambozo, the standard torch that comes with it is a WP-18 water cooled. I have large hands, so it actually feels ok.

Update: the amptrol control that I reported was difficult to turn, appears to be a mechanical bind. The cutout on the cover is binding against the knurled surface of the potentiometer, and is a simple thing to file or sand to increase the opening to clear the knob. It just snaps out, and is a plug in arrangement.