Lincoln Classic 300d (Perkins 104-22) Code Numbers: 10545, 10546, 10657, 10658, 10911, and 10927.
If you own a Lincoln Classic 300D with the code numbers 10545, 10546, 10657, 10658, 10911, and 10927, you have a four-cylinder Perkins engine. This is an excellent engine and should give you years of trouble-free service if you're willing to do is the proper maintenance. Here's the problem: if you go to your local yokel Lincoln dealer, they do not support the engine-Lincoln DOES NOT SUPPORT THE ENGINE!
Lincoln Electric has essentially recycled the original SA250-3.152 welder stator/armature control system, using new EPA-compliant engines. The problem they are fighting is finding an engine that will turn 1800 RPMs, pass EPA, and provide enough torque to produce 300 amps at a 60% duty cycle.
Why 300 amps? The largest welding rod in everyday use is 1/4 or 5/32 inches. The vast majority of welding is done with 1/8 "and 5/32" (125 to 170 amps). The reason is wire welding. The vast majority of arc gouging is done with a 1/4" rod (you need a constant, clean 400 amps to achieve clean metal removal). Nocan do with the Classic 300D.
