[TheForge] Harbor freight gas welding kit.

[Peter Fels And Phoebe Palmer]

Geoff;
I've done enough gas welding that i can weld when i'm too drunk 
to walk very well...that's my certification for being opinionated 
about this.
Buying an HF torch is an invitation to buy at least 2 torches in 
the not so distant future.
Get a  used, brand name  set in decent shape for the same money 
and you'll be better off.
The technology hasn't changed much since around 1925 or so.
One with "O" ring seals is nice and 2 stage regulators is 
desirable ( especially oxygen). You can mix or match regulator 
brands.
Check your local welding supplier and see what brand they support 
( it makes it easier when you need replacement tips, etc).
Smith, Victor, National,etc. are common...Victor is sort of 
ubiquitous and parts are easily available from them and after 
market sources.
You'd like a cutting attachment with several tips and a rosebud 
as well as a range of welding tips.
What you trash while learning, are the tips, which are easily 
replaced for most newer brand name torches.
Buying used...watch for regulators that have line pressure that 
slowly creeps up when sitting idle. Look for tips that have been 
reamed out so the orifice isn't round or no longer has a 
diminishing inside taper.
A torch is the most versatile metal working tool i know, short of 
a hammer and anvil.
The learning curve is a little steep right at first, but we are 
stubborn cusses....pf

Jerry Smith wrote:
> Geoff,
> 
> It's a good light to medium duty torch. If you ahve
> welded before you can find it useful, if you are
> learning it's an O.K. torch.
> 
> The cost of the bottles is where the real expemse is.
> 
> Jerry
> 
> --- Geoff <gjn111 at gmail.com> wrote:
> 
>> I am thinking of buying the Harbor Freight Gas
>> welding kit.
>> Has anyone got and and be willing to comment on it.
>>
> http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=36983
>> Thank you
>> Geoff
>> _______________________________________________
>> Manage membership or unsubscribe at:
>> http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/theforge
>> theforge mail list group photo site is
>> http://www.photoaccess.com
>> Login:  blacksmithblacksmith at hotmail.com
>> password:  anvil
>> ___________
>>
>>
>>
> 
> _______________________________________________
> Manage membership or unsubscribe at:
> http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/theforge
> theforge mail list group photo site is
> http://www.photoaccess.com
> Login:  blacksmithblacksmith at hotmail.com
> password:  anvil
> ___________
> 
> 
>