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Just want to repeat - dry rods (and not ones that have been in the back of the shed for a few years), and plug in as close to the main socket as possible to get max o/c voltage. Failure to do this leads to sticky starts and lots of frustration.

Most likely it's due to low open circuit voltage, this is what causes the arc to strike. Are you using a long lead as this will affect the voltage. Most people have upgraded to inverter welders which are much lighter to carry and use electronics rather than a transformer. You should be able to...

can part fill drums with polystyrene beads or similar, that should reduce the weight.

A stick welder is really only a transformer and all are much of a muchness. For DIY you can choose a unit that has a cooling fan, useful if you do big jobs, or one without a fan that will cut out if you weld too long. An essential beginners tool is the auto darkening welsing helmet, makes it so...