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
