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Miller Diversion 165 vs 180

Dillydally

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Joined
Apr 30, 2025
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Swung by my local welding supply shop and spotted a brand new, older model Miller Diversion 165 sitting in the corner like it's been waiting for me, Sales guy said they're trying to move it, $1250 out the door and It only comes with a thumb control torch, no foot pedal, no regulator but I've got a regulator kicking around at home, so nah that's not a dealbreaker. I've mostly been eyeing the diversion 180, but this popped up and now I'm wondering if it's worth jumping on cos from what I've read, the stock pedals on either machine aren't that great anyway. If my full size Miller pedal would work with the 165, that'd be a big plus. has anyone run one of these older 165s? and is $1250 a fair shake for a new unit missing a couple things? Also, any firsthand word on pedal compatibility would be appreciated.
 
Swung by my local welding supply shop and spotted a brand new, older model Miller Diversion 165 sitting in the corner like it's been waiting for me, Sales guy said they're trying to move it, $1250 out the door and It only comes with a thumb control torch, no foot pedal, no regulator but I've got a regulator kicking around at home, so nah that's not a dealbreaker. I've mostly been eyeing the diversion 180, but this popped up and now I'm wondering if it's worth jumping on cos from what I've read, the stock pedals on either machine aren't that great anyway. If my full size Miller pedal would work with the 165, that'd be a big plus. has anyone run one of these older 165s? and is $1250 a fair shake for a new unit missing a couple things? Also, any firsthand word on pedal compatibility would be appreciated.
I ran into this debate when helping a pal pick out his welder. He was set on the Diversion 180 for the extra amperage and square wave AC but then a shop had a brand new 165 sitting in the corner for cheap. We dug into whether his full size Miller pedal would work and turns out it does.

At $1250 the 165 is a fair deal for a new unit but since it's missing a couple things, wouldn't hurt to ask for a discount or extras. The 180 might be worth the extra cash if you're planning to weld thicker aluminum but if you're mainly working on thinner material, the 165 will get the job done IMO.
 
$1250 for the Miller Diversion 165 is a great deal even without the pedal. If your full-size Miller pedal fits, that's a bonus, I think it's a great machine for the price
 
To start with I’m not a great tig welder. I bought a diversion 165 used in like new condition for $1300.00. It doesn’t come with a pedal when new as far as I know. I bought an after market pedal for it of the internet. It works fine.
 
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