I actually have another welder that we're using now, but this was a workhorse so I thought I would try to repair it.

I've attached the main schematic for troubleshooting, any thoughts on the welder circuitry?

The cabling on the output of the welder is in poor shape, but it checks good for continuity. I have tried putting a voltmeter on the output lugs and I'm not getting any voltage there at all. Where should I go next with my arc welder troubleshooting 101?

This is a great explanation for servo following errors. Thanks for the detailed info.

It is a Westinghouse Torpedo welder. I have 480V three phase power going in and when I strike the arc nothing happens. It sounds like it is alive like it always has, but i have lost arc completely.

 I know this is an old post but I have some advice to give anyway. If you want name brand cheap mechanics tools, you should buy them used. You can go to local flea markets and there are always vintage mechanics tools, sockets, and wrenches at these events.

I have bought cheap Craftsman mechanics tools and also cheap Snap-On mechanics tools simply because they were used. You can also look at sites like ebay for cheap mechanics tools and you don't have to settle for generic chinese tools.

I agree with the shadowing advice to a certain point. Learning your skills from an experienced technician is good advice but there is no replacing a good education on any subject.

I took a vocational course on electrical troubleshooting and industrial electronics and I learned more there in three months than I expected to learn. Our teacher was fantastic and the way the troubleshooting course was laid out made it very good.

Look up "electronics schools", "technical colleges", and "night courses on industrial maintenance" in your area you might be surprised at what is offered.

The Best Wire Markers

1. Wrap round wire markers because they are fast and easy. Disadvantage is that they fall off when they get wet or oily.

2. Heat shrink wire markers because they last longer. Disadvantage is that they are harder to apply, especially when you are working remotely and you need a heat shrink gun.

3. Plastic snap on wire markers are my least favorite. Disadvantages are the fact that they are cumbersome and can fall off when not applied the right way. I actually avoid using these anymore.

Digital multimeters are definitely better than analog meters. You can get your reading faster and more efficiently with a digital meter.

What is the best digital multimeter? Anyone have a list of their preferred meters?

I also prefer solder wick vs a solder sucker. I think soldering wick simply works better than the solder suckers.

This vintage industrial stuff is awesome. I work in a plant where vintage industrial electronics are still a part of every day activities. Some of the best electronics is the old electronics.

I have seen quite a few overcurrent alarms in my experience, there are more times when it is load related and can be cleared up by finding the problem on the load side. For example stuck brake, bad bearing, excessive mechanical resistance due to improper air pressure, etc.

I am troubleshooting an old arc welder that won't arc! I'm not even sure where to begin the troubleshooting process. There is power going in, I have verified it.