To put it simply, if you want a good wielding machine from a reputable and trustworthy brand with excellent value for the money, then the Everlast PowerTIG 185 should be your choice.
Short Summary
Overall Rating
The Everlast PowerTIG 185 is a low-cost AC/DC TIG pulse welder, which has a low, 5- to 20-amp start in either mode.
Specs & Advice
It has two pre-programmed settings, giving you the choice of either one pulse per second or 50. The unit also has a function for stick welding.
The welder has a design which incorporates a digital compact inverter. This is complex silicon based technology that is small and compact, therefore, reduces the weight of the machine. It also creates a smooth arc to work with.
When you compare this welder to similar products from other manufacturers, it has a far superior duty cycle and range of adjustment. It is possible to do a ¼ inch weld on a single pass alloy and 5/8 inch on a single pass steel.
Dual voltage capability means it is easy to use this machine in a variety of locations - all you need is a power outlet and you’re ready to go!
To use the PowerTIG 185 as a portable unit, you’ll need to have a generator which is specified by the manufacturer as “clean power.” The generator also needs to be able to provide a minimum 5000W of continuous output. For best results, the output should, ideally, be even higher than this.
With many updates from the 2016 model apparent in this unit, it also features IGBT Infineon modules. While this technology is too complicated to go into depth here, suffice to say that these are very beneficial for high powered devices, such as welders. Despite it being about 4 years later this model is still great and a worthy purchase given the price point.
The Everlast PowerTIG 185 has a manual preflow of up to 10 seconds, as well as a fully automatic preflow. The automatic preflow is great for making the setup and operation of the unit quick and easy.
The 2T function can be used with either the torch switch or the optional foot pedal. This mode allows you a variety of options when undertaking out of position welding tasks. The function also provides a digital readout, which gives a high level of control of your welding amps when in the 2T mode.
You’ll find setting up your Everlast PowerTIG 185 fairly quick and simple to do, thanks to the DINSE 25/50 style of connectors. These will also give you the ability to adapt aftermarket torches and other compatible components for use with the unit.
The functional and easy to use controls make this unit straightforward to operate. They also allow you to see all of your settings at once.
What Is the Everlast PowerTIG 185 Best For?
The Everlast PowerTIG 185 is a good option for an amateur welder.
It is not the most powerful unit that money can buy, and therefore it isn’t really suitable for professional welding work that requires a higher level of power.
However, this product does have a number of useful features and it is capable of completing many basic welding tasks to a high standard. These include hobby or DIY projects, portable repair work, ranch jobs, gunsmith work, light fabrication or production.
The Everlast PowerTIG 185 is suitable for use with pretty much all types of metal, but it is particularly good for steel, nickel, titanium and stainless steel. It is a cost-effective option for those not ready to make an expensive investment in a more powerful item.
Everlast 185 Video Review
Everlast PowerTIG 185 Pros
Easy to Use
The Everlast PowerTIG 185 is a well functioning unit which is easy to use. It doesn’t contain any unnecessary switches or dials, unlike similar models on the market. The automatic preflow feature means it’s easy to start up and operate the welder.
Affordable
While there are more powerful TIG welders available on the market, this unit is a great low-cost option.
Awesome Features
This welder has lots of useful features and provides you with a decent level of performance for its low price. For a top-range welder, you would be looking at paying at least double the price of this product. Some of the top features are:
- Compact inverter
- Stick functionanlity
- Automatic preflow
- Argon regulator
Light & Portable
The Everlast PowerTIG 185 dimensions measure 24 inches by 9 inches by 17 inches. This compact size, and the weight of just 40 pounds, makes it a relatively lightweight and portable unit that is easy to move, store and transport.
Accessories
Pros Summary
- Easy to use
- Great bang for your buck
- Awesome features
- Additional accessories
Everlast PowerTIG 185 Cons
Undertaking thin AC work is a little difficult with this machine, as it is not possible to get a very low current in AC mode. The welder also has some problems creating an arc in this mode, and can also have trouble working with aluminum in AC.
The Everlast PowerTIG 185 package does not include a foot pedal. While this item is not 100 percent necessary, it’s certainly a useful piece of equipment when using this welder. If you would like to use a foot pedal with this product, you need to order and pay for it separately.
To summarize, the Everlast 185 isn't perfect, but it is darn good. Here is a quick look at the things that could be improved:
- Can't get low current in AC mode
- Hard to get an arc in AC mode
- Would be better with a foot pedal included
Warranty Information
The PowerTIG 185 welder is valid under the welder warranty policy from Everlast.
All of their models are guaranteed for a full five years against any breakages, malfunctioning or failure if they are due to a manufacturing fault.
All smaller items, including torches, extension cables and foot pedals, are covered by a six-month warranty. If your unit is damaged during shipping, or a component fails within 30 days of shipment, it is possible to return the product to Everlast and receive a full refund.
Conclusion
This is not a professional level welder, and is not marketed as such. It doesn’t really have an adequate level of power for large and complex jobs.
However, all in all, the Everlast PowerTIG 185 welder is a great low-cost welder that includes a good selection of features. It functions well, to provide you with a high level of performance on many tasks.
You will need to source and purchase some components separately, such as a foot pedal and extra torches. While these “extras” are advantageous, they are not necessary to get started with the welder.
The Everlast PowerTIG 185 is reasonably lightweight, compact and portable, so it’s suitable for even the smallest workshop. At the price, It is a fantastic investment for the amateur or hobbyist welder. If you want something professional grade that is great, but also from Everlast, then check out the 250Ex.
