Cem Dual Mig 120 Manual [top] Jun 2026

Check roller tension. Clean the roller grooves. Check internal fuses on the control PCB. Inspect trigger contacts inside the torch handle.

How to Set Up a MIG Welder - MIG Welding Basics for Beginners

The CEM Dual MIG 120 is a compact, portable MIG welder often used for automotive repair, light fabrication, and general maintenance. The "Dual" in the name typically refers to its ability to run on different voltage settings or, in some models, the ability to switch between MIG and Flux-Cored welding. cem dual mig 120 manual

The CEM Dual MIG 120, which appears to have been produced in the late 1980s, is a small, lightweight MIG welder that is popular among hobbyists and home users. It has earned a reputation as a budget-friendly entry point into MIG welding, especially when found on the second-hand market. Its "Dual" capability means it can operate as a traditional gas-shielded MIG welder for clean, professional welds on mild steel, or as a gasless (flux-cored) welder for outdoor work, which is a very versatile feature.

The core feature of the "Dual" MIG 120 is its ability to swap polarities. Incorrect polarity causes excessive spatter and poor penetration. Check roller tension

Finding the original manual is a challenge, but these sources may help:

When you open the box, the manual instructs you to verify the contents: Inspect trigger contacts inside the torch handle

Listen for a consistent "sizzling bacon" sound. 🔧 Maintenance and Troubleshooting Common Issues

Lack of shielding gas shielding; wind blowing gas away; incorrect polarity.

The CEM Dual MIG 120 is a classic, versatile compact welding machine prized by DIY enthusiasts, automotive hobbyists, and light fabrication shops. Known for its reliability and straightforward analog controls, this machine bridges the gap between gasless flux-cored welding and traditional gas-shielded MIG welding.

Because older machines like the CEM Dual MIG 120 do not have modern auto-set features, manual adjustments are required based on metal thickness: Material Thickness Voltage Switch Setting Wire Speed Range (1-10) Wire Type Required Gas Required 0.6mm Solid Argon/CO2 Mix 1.5mm – 2.0mm (Auto Body) 0.6mm / 0.8mm Solid Argon/CO2 Mix 2.5mm – 3.0mm (Light Frame) 0.8mm Flux-Cored / Solid None (FC) or Gas 4.0mm+ (Structural) 0.9mm Flux-Cored