Get started with the Forney 242 Dual MIG Welder! This is a breakdown of the Quick Start Guide that is included with your new machine.

---

FIRST STEPS

1. Read User Manual

2. Assemble front handle, trim pieces and wheels. (Tools needed: screwdriver and snap ring pliers)

3. Attach gas bottles and regulator hose(s) assembly. (Tool needed: adjustable wrench)

4. Install wire spool. Insert wire through both wire liners and clamp it into wire drive. Make sure drive roll, liner and tip are correct for wire diameter.

5. Install MIG gun, turn it on, and squeeze trigger until wire comes out.

6. Tighten wire feed tension knob clockwise until wire will bend from feed tension at 2”-3”. Verify polarity is set correctly for MIG or flux-core welding wire.

7. Adjust wire feed speed and voltage per chart on the inside of welder.

8. Dual MIG setup

• #1 – Standard MIG
  
• #2 – Spool Gun

Verify gas, switch position and output (Note: Wire feed speed is adjusted on the spool gun).

Weld Examples

Good Weld

• Smooth bead
• Minimal spatter
• Good fusion

CURRENT/WFS TOO HIGH

• Too wide
• Bead too flat

Current Too Low

• Lack of fusion

Weld Speed Too Fast

• Stringy and lack of fusion

Weld Speed Too Slow

• Melt through

Stick Out Too Long

• Excessive spatter

Welding Tips

Optimal Stick Out

• Stick out 1/2” +/- 1/8”
• Short stick out = more current and more penetration

Voltage

• Affects the arc shape
• Less voltage = tighter arc and potentially more spatter

Wire Feed Speed (WFS)

• Higher wire feed speed = more amperage
• Can also affect arc shape and penetration

Travel Speed

• Affects bead width and height
• Can also affect penetration

Thin Material

• Less voltage
• Lower wire feed speed
• Faster travel speed

Thick Material

• More voltage
• Higher wire feed speed
• Slower travel speed