I have been running a harbor freight about 170 amp mig welder 220v connected to a homelite 6000 watt generator for easily 6 years with zero issues. Well, one issue, I finally wore out my stinger handle but whatever nothing big.
I weld the hell out of 3-16 and have welded all day many times. Just throwing out an option for you.
I agree craigslist is the way to go with good used gear. But you could set yourself up a generator and welder set for more power and versatility!