Introduction to the Forney Easy Weld 140 MP
The Forney Easy Weld 140 MP stands out as an affordable yet versatile multi-process welding machine tailored for hobbyists, DIY enthusiasts, and light fabrication projects. Its primary focus is on delivering solid build quality and reliable performance, rather than packing in an overwhelming array of features. This welder excels at producing consistent, high-quality beads, making it an excellent choice for beginners and those seeking a dependable unit for basic welding tasks.
Package Contents and Included Accessories
- Forney Easy Weld 140 MP unit
- 10-foot MIG welding gun
- 8-foot electrode holder for stick welding
- 8-foot grounding clamp
- Adapter for 15A to 20A circuits
- One additional contact tip (.030 inch)
While the package provides the core components needed to get started, it omits some accessories that could enhance your welding experience. Notably, it does not include a shielding gas regulator or gas hose, nor a dedicated TIG torch. Additionally, no welding wire or electrodes are supplied, which means you’ll need to purchase these separately to begin welding right away. Although this approach helps keep the initial cost lower, it might require extra shopping and setup for beginners.
Technical Specifications at a Glance
| MIG, Flux Core, DC TIG, Stick |
| 120 V |
| Minimum 4,000W output on a standard 120V outlet |
| 30A (minimum 20A) |
| Direct Current (DC) |
| IGBT Inverter |
| 10-140A |
| 12 to 23V |
| 30% at 90A (MIG), 30% at 110A (TIG), 30% at 80A (Stick) |
| Mild steel, stainless steel |
| 8-foot ground clamp, 10-foot MIG gun cable |
| MIG: up to 1/4 inch, TIG: up to 3/16 inch, Stick: up to 1/8 inch |
| .023 and .030-inch wire feed rolls, compatible with 2 lb and 10 lb spools |
| Stick electrodes up to 1/8 inch diameter |
| 12 inches (H) x 8.125 inches (W) x 16.75 inches (L) |
| Approximately 20.3 pounds |
| 1 Year |
| 4 out of 5 stars |
Pros and Cons
Advantages
- Budget-friendly price point
- Robust construction for durability
- Produces stable, quality welds
- Offers multiple welding processes (MIG, flux core, TIG, stick)
- Simple, intuitive controls suitable for beginners
- Compact and lightweight, easy to transport
- Full metal casing with corner reinforcements for added protection
- Includes a clear, quick-reference setup chart inside the unit
- Adjustable wire feed and voltage with infinite control
Limitations
- Does not support aluminum welding due to lack of spool gun support
- Limited duty cycle, restricting continuous operation at high settings
- Basic TIG function without advanced features like pre/post flow controls
- Included accessories such as the MIG gun and ground clamp are of average quality
- Shorter ground cable length may limit flexibility and safety considerations
Key Features That Make the Forney 140 MP a Top Choice
Designed for Novices and Hobbyists
This machine prioritizes ease of use, with straightforward controls and an uncluttered interface. The infinite adjustment knobs allow users to dial in settings smoothly, while the detailed manual provides guidance on optimal configurations. Its simple process selection switch makes it easy to toggle between welding methods, making it accessible for beginners or occasional welders.
Exceptional Build Quality
Forney has emphasized durability, incorporating a full metal wire feed system and a rugged casing with reinforced corners. The wire spool spindle is engineered for stability, accommodating 10 lb spools without slipping or bird nesting issues. This sturdy construction ensures longevity and consistent performance, even after extended use.
Versatile Welding Capabilities
The 140 MP supports MIG, flux core, DC TIG, and stick welding, offering a broad range of applications. While it’s not suitable for aluminum, it handles mild steel, stainless steel, and various other metals effectively. The lift TIG start feature facilitates easy initiation of TIG welds, and the stick welding function can handle common electrodes such as 6010, 6011, 6013, 7018, and 308L for stainless steel projects.
Portability for On-the-Go Projects
Compact and lightweight, this welder can be easily transported and operated via a standard generator. Its built-in handle and small footprint make it ideal for remote job sites or mobile work, provided the power supply meets the minimum wattage requirements.
Alternative Consideration: Eastwood Elite MP140i
Although the Forney 140 MP offers excellent value, the Eastwood Elite MP140i presents a compelling alternative. It surpasses in features such as spool gun support for aluminum welding, digital displays for precise control, and an extended 3-year warranty. The MP140i arrives fully equipped with accessories like TIG torch, gas regulator, and consumables, making it a more comprehensive package at a comparable price point.
Key advantages include its support for every process right out of the box, longer leads for greater flexibility, and the latest inverter technology for enhanced efficiency. The Eastwood model is a smart investment for those seeking more advanced features, durability, and a longer warranty period.
Comparison Table
| Forney Easy Weld 140 MP | Eastwood Elite MP140i | |
|---|---|---|
| Amperage Range | 10-140A | MIG: 30-140A, TIG/Stick: 30-70A |
| Duty Cycle | 30% at 90A; 30% at 110A (TIG); 30% at 80A (Stick) | 30% at 90A |
| Spool Gun Support | ❌ (No) | ✅ (Yes) |
| Spot Weld Timer | ❌ (No) | ✅ (Yes) |
| Process Compatibility Out of the Box | ❌ (No) | ✅ (Yes) |
| Warranty | 1 Year | 3 Years |
| Price Range | $$$ (Check latest on Amazon) | $$$ (Check latest on Eastwood) |
Final Thoughts
Forney’s reputation for producing reliable, budget-friendly welding machines makes the Easy Weld 140 MP a popular choice among hobbyists and beginners. Its solid construction, multi-process capabilities, and user-friendly design are significant selling points. However, for those seeking enhanced features like aluminum welding, longer duty cycles, and extended warranties, the Eastwood Elite MP140i offers superior value and performance. Considering your specific needs and future project plans will help you make the best decision. Remember, investing in a machine with a longer warranty and more features can be beneficial as your skills advance.
Additional Resources
If you’re exploring other options or want to compare different models, check out our detailed reviews of other multi-process welders to find the perfect fit for your projects.