If your MiG drags and the wire is routed incorrectly, then it could very well be a metal sleeve. After doing five more shielded wire welding projects totaling 20 hours, I noticed that my torch was feeding wire, but then intermittently stopped with no wire feeding. I shook and wiggled the gun and the wire popped out again. Disappointed, I decided to order another liner. How do you know I'm back in business? Apparently this problem can occur if you use shield/flux wire. I don't have this problem when using unshielded cables. Please note this liner is longer than expected so be prepared to trim it to fit. Have fun welding!