I was reading one cruisers' web site, where the "single-hander" skipper provided the reader detailed information as to how his vessel was equipped, including a rather large line up of tool boxes, color coded as to the contents. It was most detailed and I found it most interesting and helpful.
He had a floating machine shop, including a turning lathe, milling machine, two welders, and an ox-acetylene gas welding and cutting outfit. His equipment and capabilities had to raise his water line and lower his draft. I know all his tools and equipment and am most experienced in using them. This skipper is most self-sufficent in the engineering department, and I admire that.
I have a 220 VAC input - AC/DC output stick welder. I am thinking about buying a smaller 110 VAC input - MIG welder, (MIG - Metal Inert Gas / Wire Feed) for several projects I want to do. The entry level machines are inexpensive, about $100 USD and up. The cheap ones are limited in duty cycle, and related metal thickness capability. I refer to them as "toy buzz boxes" in comparison to very large industrial (1,000 Amp) machines I use to operate. The toys are small, lightweight, inexpensive, but have useful capabilities.
Thinking about buying a 110 VAC MIG "toy" I was thinking which one; how capable? Should the one I buy one to fit future potential needs on a yacht? How many cruisers even know how to weld? Is there ever a need? A big need? On a fiberglass boat? Emergency Repairs? Who wants the molten sparks on board, burning the fiberglass, teak, mahogany, and other fine finishes?
What about heavier than air combustible gases and vapors; especially below deck?
NEWS FLASH - DATELINE...: Idiot with $200 welder blows up $200,000 yacht. Stop. Last seen flying over the mast! Stop.
Do you have one? Do you wish you had? Ever had the need to have one? Do you know of cruisers that do?
I suppose if I had one, I could find work and income in many places on the globe, maybe being well compensated. I was not planning on earning my way as I go, once I cast off, but the thought of helping out remote locals, or fellow cruisers in a bind (dire need) is something I would be hard pressed to pass up.
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