Wanted: Input on 3G 130AMP Mustang Alternator

[Gillbot]

Ok guys, I'm gonna try to make a TIG welder for the father-in-law and myself to "play" with. If you are curious, all the details are here:

http://www.turbomustangs.com/forums/showthread.php?threadid=8872

http://www.turbomustangs.com/forums/showthread.php?threadid=9099

I wanna learn to weld but I don't have $500 or more to put on a TIG so I thought this would be a decent option. I can get a gas motor to turn it for free but I need an alternator CHEAP! I've been meaning to do this for some time as a stick welder since my old 4x4 days but I didn't realize it could TIG as well.

Any input for a cheap alternator would be GREATLY appreciated. Also, what other alternators may work well in this situation? They need to have a field that can be controlled, no 1 wires.

 

[flot]

A cheap alternator? Just go to the closest junkyard - I'm sure you can pick one up for under $35-40... just get the biggest one you can find.

 

[Gillbot]

Unfortunately I can't find anything here so far that has a decent cost.

 

[nprotz]

are you macgyver?

 

[Gillbot]

Originally posted by: nprotz
are you macgyver?

Sadly, no. If I were it would be made from a pen, swiss army knife and duct tape.

 

[notfred]

Uh, it's a good alternator when used on a Mustang. I have no idea how well it works as a welder.

 

[Gillbot]

Originally posted by: notfred
Uh, it's a good alternator when used on a Mustang. I have no idea how well it works as a welder.

Welding with an alternator isn't a new concept. Offroaders have been doing it for years. Sadly the only wiring diagrams I have are for the 3G mustang one so I'm looking for input on possible sources where I can find one cheap, or another make/model that may work that is cost effective.

 

[Gillbot]

Anyone else?