When I got the Redbird back in April, decided I was going to build this car from bottom up, and do it all myself. Bought a HF 180 amp mig welder for $280.00 Did a patch panel on RT fender and fabricated repair on LT fender, and did entire exhaust system. Also have used it for several other shop projects since, has done everything I asked. It is rigged for gas, but have not yet need to do so. When I decided to replace both rear quarters, took the plunge and bought a "budget" plasma cutter from Giant Tech. Paid $425 delivered, 3 year warranty...yep more Chinese crap, but I do not have the means to purchase "name brand" stuff, so here I am. Time will tell if it was good investment or not. I know a lot of guys bang on HF crap, probably for good reason, but I have had the same floor jack, engine hoist I bought 13 years ago that still work as they should. I have a Craftsman tool box, with many HF air tools, chisels, lights, sockets, ect...again, no complaints. I also bought the HF HVLP paint guns, repaired & painted a door for a buddy and the under hood on Redbird, came out way better that expected for 1st attempts, plan to paint whole car when all body work is done. The OP stated he doesn't " have a bunch of cash to throw around."...I understand this. I bought my 1st 'bird 13 years ago, and have good luck with HF crap, I know many others that have not. My advice(you asked), research what you need, dig deep into Google and search for reviews for that item you need, balance out what you can afford and what you can live with....let the bashing begin....Kel
