[TheForge] switching torches

Thu Dec 5 03:00:00 2002

At 01:11 AM 12/4/02, you wrote:

Terry;
I use Smiths too..a great cutting torch..you can buy aftermarket tips for 
it which work just fine..one of the companies Lincon bought  makes a wide 
assortment..if you are going to order tips, just buy the copper tip, not 
the mixer that is screwed onto it.
Harris ( a company that Lincon...) is the master at propane. If you use it 
a lot buy a torch just for propane..( not hot enough to weld steel).
Victor is ubiquitous..(everywhere) and a good welding torch  with a nice 
flame shape.
Be aware that if you buy a new torch you will win the additional 
weight  and length of mandated flashback valves.
Have you tried Emailing Smith? They used to be real friendly..especially if 
you can talk to the techs ( not the sales folks).
Why are you going through so many tips that they are a cost factor?
Spatter  dip helps and being real careful when you clean out the little 
holes. If you work the tip cleaner a little sideways  when using it, it 
makes the jets trumpet shaped and ruins the flame shape.  If you are 
cutting  rough stuff or in corners or holes, it helps to dunk the tip in 
water  when it hots up.

>hello;
>
>for many years i have used a smith equipment oxy-fuel torch for both
>cutting, brazing, and welding. the problem i am facing is being able to
>purchase new cutting and welding tips locally. i can no longer afford to
>pay the premium prices i have been paying when ordering online and then
>waiting for the tip to arrive. i ordered a propane welding tip two weeks
>ago and it still has not come in. i like the balance and feel of the
>smith torch for both cutting and welding. i am going to switch to either
>harris or victor. i would like to hear from others their experience with
>either brand. a deciding factor would be which supports the use of
>propane better. another deciding factor would be which supports small
>cutting, brazing, welding, and heating ( down to 1/16" ). i would also
>like to hear if i should consider other brands. i know harris and
>victor i am able to purchase tips at farm&fleet, the local welding
>supply store, and the welding supply stores in rockford and aurora,
>illinois.
>
>--
>Terry L. Ridder ><>
>
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