I just got an arc welder that is 220v 50a. I thought I could plug it into the 220v receptacle in my garage, not realizing how many different types of 220v plugs and amperages there are. The receptacle in my garage turns out to be a 220v 30a dryer plug. My question is can I just change the receptacle or do I have to re-wire the whole thing? If I do have to re-wire, my garage has a fuse box not a circuit breaker, what do I have to do?
Any good advise apreciated.
Thanks

According to my old handbook, you must have #6 wire for 50 amps. Depending on how old the fuse box is, it may not even have #6 run to it. Welders usually come with a long cord. If the box has #6 or better wire to it, it might be best to forget the dryer plug and wire up a 50 amp disconnect and receptacle near the box. Hope the welder leaves the garage enough power for the lights. A fan to carry off the fumes might be nice too.