Abstract: A mounting and braking apparatus for use in providing a controlled feeding of welding wire to a welding torch or gun, wherein the welding wire is arranged in a pre-coiled, continuous roll. The mounting and braking apparatus comprises an upstanding mounting bracket adapted to be secured to an electrical welding machine having a reel assembly rotatably supported to the mounting bracket by the braking apparatus, which includes a threaded spindle attached to the mounting bracket having an insulating bushing disposed therebetween and held in place by a locking nut. The braking assembly is operably mounted to the extended portion of the spindle and comprises an enlarged hub member having a pair of oppositely disposed ball bearings positioned therein and operably received over the spindle.