Welding helmet help.

[Northstar9126]

I have a Hobart auto-darkening welding helmet that I bought several years ago that but have seldom used until recently (enrolled in a welding class at the local vo-tech). The helmet doesn't always darken to the same shade that it is set to. By this I mean that I can strike an arc one minute and the shade will be set properly then I can strike an arc a minute late and the shade will be too dark. The adjustment knob is not moved between arcs. The shade sometime changes to a darker shade as I am running a bead. I have noticed that if I turn my head to the side I am able to see the weld fine along the outer edge of the lens. Any suggestions on how I might address this problem would be appreciated.

 

[escavader]

MABEY the battery is weak,is it cold where you store it? Try setting it in the sun for a while mabey
ALAN

 

[automech]

try posting on Hobartwelders.com with your question, they are very helpful