The Lincoln Outback 185 engine-driven welder delivers exceptional portability and performance for contractors, maintenance crews, and DIY enthusiasts who need reliable DC stick welding and AC generator power in a compact, easy-to-transport package. Engineered specifically for mobile applications, this versatile machine features innovative Low-Lift grab bars on both ends that provide superior leverage when loading and unloading from truck beds, making it the most user-friendly portable welder in its class. The rugged 1-1/4 inch diameter tubular frame surrounds the entire unit, providing comprehensive protection against jobsite damage while maintaining the compact footprint needed for easy transportation between work locations.
Designed with operator convenience as a top priority, the Outback 185 places all engine controls on the front panel for quick access and easy starting, especially when mounted on truck beds or in tight spaces. This thoughtful design includes an intuitive electric start switch and engine choke control positioned for maximum visibility and accessibility. The generous 6.8 gallon (25.7 liter) fuel tank significantly extends operating time between refueling stops, allowing for longer productive work periods without interruption. The large fuel fill opening simplifies the refueling process, reducing spills and minimizing downtime during extended operations.
The Outback 185 delivers impressive welding performance with up to 185 amps of DC output, providing the capability to run electrodes up to 5/32 inch (4 mm) diameter for a wide range of repair and fabrication applications. This powerful yet portable machine excels in maintenance welding, repair operations, ranch and farm applications, and general fabrication tasks where mobility and reliability are essential. The smooth DC welding arc ensures consistent electrode performance with minimal spatter, allowing for high-quality welds even in challenging field conditions where precision and dependability are critical requirements.
Beyond its primary welding functions, the Outback 185 serves as a versatile AC power generator with 5,700 watts peak and 5,200 watts continuous output, transforming any worksite into a complete power station. This substantial auxiliary power can operate grinders, work lights, pumps, and various power tools, or serve as emergency power when needed. The system's versatility extends to wire welding capabilities, as users can plug in a Lincoln Electric POWER MIG 140C or POWER MIG 180C to expand their welding process options. Additionally, the Outback 185 can power a Lincoln Electric Tomahawk 375 Air plasma cutter, creating a comprehensive metal fabrication solution in a single portable package.
Powered by a reliable Kohler CH440 gasoline engine, the Outback 185 combines industrial-grade performance with exceptional fuel efficiency in a compact 295-pound package. The single-cylinder air-cooled engine delivers 14 horsepower of consistent power while maintaining the lightweight profile needed for true portability. With its comprehensive three-year warranty coverage on parts and labor (engine warranted separately), the Outback 185 represents Lincoln Electric's commitment to quality, durability, and customer satisfaction in a portable welding and power generation solution designed specifically for professionals who demand mobility without compromising performance.
Features
- The Outback 185 engine driven welder has portable DC stick welding with AC generator power.
- Low-Lift Grab Bars (Patent Pending)
- All Engine Controls on Front Control Panel
- 1-1/4 in. (32 mm) Diameter Rugged Tube Frame
- 6.8 Gallon (25.7 Liter) Fuel Tank
Specifications
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 25.6 in x 21.8 in x 31.5 in (651 mm x 553 mm x 800 mm) |
| Net Weight | 295 lbs (134 kg) |
| Machines Processes | Stick (SMAW) |
| Output Range by Mode | CC-Stick: 50 – 185 Amps |
| Single Phase Auxiliary Output | 5,200 Watts Continuous, 120/240V |
| Auxiliary Output Frequency | 60 Hz |
| Receptacle Types | NEMA 5-20R NEMA 6-50R |
| Engine Brand & Model | Kohler CH440 |
| Engine Description | 1 Cylinder Air Cooled Gasoline Engine |
| Engine Horsepower | 14 HP |
| High Idle Operating Speed @ Rated Output | 3600 |
| Fuel Tank Size (US gal.) | 6.8 |
| Fuel Tank Size (L) | 25.7 |
| Oil Capacity (qts.) | 1.2 |
| Oil Capacity (L) | 1.1 |
| Typical Application | General Fabrication Maintenance & Repair Repair Welding |
| Warranty | 3 Years Parts and Labor - Engine warranted separately by engine manufacturer |
Lincoln lists the welding processes for the Outback 185 as: Stick (DC), MIG, flux-cored, aluminium MIG with an optional spool gun, and plasma cutting through a Lincoln Tomahawk cutter. Lincoln does not list TIG on this machine. Source: Lincoln Outback 185 spec sheet.
Yes. Lincoln publishes the auxiliary AC generator output for the Outback 185 as: 5,700 Watts Peak / 5,200 Watts Continuous, 60 Hz, 120V/240V AC Single Phase, 100% Duty Cycle. The 240 V outlet on this machine is a two-pole 240 V-only NEMA 6-50R receptacle — not a 120/240 V full-KVA NEMA 14-50R. Lincoln publishes these receptacles for this machine:
- 120V Duplex Receptacles — 120V, 20 Amps Each, 40 Amps Total, NEMA 5-20R
- 240V Receptacle — 240V, 21.6 Amps, NEMA 6-50R
Source: Lincoln Outback 185 spec sheet.
The Outback 185 on this listing is powered by a Kohler CH440 gasoline engine, 14 HP. Kohler engines in this line are gasoline or LP-Gas — there is no Kohler diesel in the Lincoln engine-drive range. Lincoln’s current engine-warranty document brands Kohler as Rehlko (formerly Kohler). Source: Lincoln Outback 185 spec sheet.
Duty cycle varies sharply by output setting, and this machine is not a continuous-duty welder at its higher settings. Lincoln rates the Outback 185 at 150 A DC / 25 V / 20%, 130 A DC / 25 V / 60% and 100 A DC / 25 V / 100% over a 50–185 A range; the only 100% duty cycle figure on the spec sheet other than the 100 A weld point belongs to the AC generator. Rated at 104º F (40º C).
| Welding process / output mode | Rating basis | Amperes | Volts | Duty cycle | As printed by Lincoln |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DC Constant Current | NOT LABELLED (CC Rated Output column) | 100A DC | 25V | 100% | 100A DC/25V/100% |
| DC Constant Current | NOT LABELLED (CC Rated Output column) | 130A DC | 25V | 60% | 130A DC/25V/60% |
| DC Constant Current | NOT LABELLED (CC Rated Output column) | 150A DC | 25V | 20% | 150A DC/25V/20% |
| Mode / parameter | Range |
|---|---|
| Current Range | 50-185 A |
| Output Range (Product Specifications) | 50-185A DC |
| Open circuit voltage | Max. OCV@ 3750 RPM 80V RMS |
| Rated ambient temperature | "Welding and AC generator outputs rated at 104º F (40º C)." |
| Specification | As printed by Lincoln |
|---|---|
| Peak / surge output | 5,700 Watts Peak |
| Continuous output | 5,200 Watts Continuous |
| Single-phase | 5,700 Watts Peak / 5,200 Watts Continuous, 60 Hz, 120V/240V AC Single Phase, 100% Duty Cycle |
| Three-phase | NONE PRESENT (single-phase machine) |
| Frequency / phase | 60 Hz, 120V/240V AC Single Phase |
| Generator duty cycle | 100% Duty Cycle (AC generator) |
| Receptacle | Voltage | Amperage | NEMA type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 120V Duplex Receptacles | 120V | 20 Amps Each, 40 Amps Total | NEMA 5-20R |
| 240V Receptacle | 240V | 21.6 Amps | NEMA 6-50R |
Source: Lincoln Electric publication E6.70 (Issue Date 01/16) — view the Lincoln spec sheet PDF. Figures are Lincoln's own; “NOT STATED” means Lincoln does not publish that value for this machine.
Yes — this is a factory demo or low-hour unit directly from Lincoln Electric. Units may show light cosmetic marks from display use but are mechanically sound. The warranty on this unit is the same as on a new machine. Lincoln’s Industrial Limited Warranty (form IMWS1, Apr-2026) lists a 3-year warranty period for “All Lincoln welding machines, wirefeeders & plasma cutting machines”, and Lincoln states: “Lincoln will assume both the parts and labor expense of correcting defects during the warranty period.” As on a new machine, the engine is not covered by Lincoln’s warranty — Lincoln states: “All engines and engine accessories are warranted by the engine or engine accessory manufacturer and are not covered by this warranty.” This machine’s Kohler CH440 engine is warranted by Rehlko (formerly Kohler): “Three Years”, and that term “BEGINS ON DATE OF PURCHASE BY END USER.” Lincoln footnotes the Rehlko (formerly Kohler) three-year term “First owner only.” Lincoln directs buyers to the engine maker — WWW.ENGINES.REHLKO.COM / 1-800-544-2444 Rehlko Service Department. See Lincoln Engine Drive Motors Warranty Contacts. Source: Lincoln Electric Industrial Limited Warranty (form IMWS1, Apr-2026).
Lincoln’s own included-items list for K2706-2 is: (1) Outback 185 Engine Driven Welder (Lincoln K2706-2). This factory demo unit is supplied the same way. Not included: welding leads (electrode and work cable), electrode holder, work clamp, and accessory kits. No printed operator’s manual, WeldingMart demo-prep certification document or Lincoln warranty registration paperwork ships with the machine. Consumables (electrodes, gas cylinders) are not included. Leads, holders, clamps, cable connectors, undercarriages, spark arrestors, remote controls and wire feeders are sold separately — contact WeldingMart and we will quote the exact set you need.