Methods of and system for welding using a generator stick eletrode based engine speed control

A welding system (10) includes an engine (16) driven welder generator (18) that produces welding power. A welding torch (28) receives the welding power and applies it to a stick electrode (30) to initiate and maintain a welding arc. A parameter of the welding power, such as voltage, is monitored, such as to determine whether spikes occur during a short time after arc initiation. Based upon the monitored parameter, the engine (16) speed is controlled. The engine (16) speed may be increased or maintained at an elevated level if the monitored parameter indicates that particular types of stick electrode (30) are being used, such as XX10 or cellulose electrodes (30).