[MAC702]

I think the extra money is better spent going to a 230V machine, especially for suspension work.

Most tapped machines are very adequate for voltage selection. The latest 230V Hobart Handler 180 is an exception, unfortunately.

If you insist on a 120V machine, the HH140 is about as good as it gets and the best value by far.

 

[MAC702]

Thanks for the responses. My first inclination was to go with a 230V unit, but a few “pros” have told me it would be overkill for automotive work (excessive burn-through). Would a 230V be okay for doing automotive sheet metal?

The input voltage is not the criteria which determines that problem.

The HH180 is just as good a sheetmetal unit as the HH140, and many consider them to be among the best performers for sheetmetal out there. Caveat: I have no experience with the Thermal Arc units.

Even the venerable MM210 is supposed to be killer on sheetmetal, especially with .023 wire.