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Old 10-15-2019, 12:56 PM   #1
ford35lh
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Default Need to replace oxy-acetylene torch set

My Airco oxy-acetylene torch hose and gages were purchased in 1968.
The acetylene gage has been rebuilt once and needs it again.
The torch is not cutting as good as it used to. I purchased new orings
for the valves but it didn't improve a whole lot.
Its had flashback valves since new.
Think maybe I need to get a new setup.

Any recommendations as to a good brand ???
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Old 10-15-2019, 01:21 PM   #2
19Fordy
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Default Re: Need to replace oxy-acetylene torch set

Depending on your needs I found the HENROB torch set up to be excellent.
Operates at very low pressure to save gas. Also light weight.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dBYhViwGwgU
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Old 10-15-2019, 01:49 PM   #3
big job
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Default Re: Need to replace oxy-acetylene torch set

Invest, buy a plasma cutter, since we bought one there is cob webs on the oxygen
a/c only used now for rusted bolts. Get a high volt good one cuts like a razor I can do
1/2 like butter 230 volt cheap shop air no more runs for oxygen either. sam
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Old 10-15-2019, 02:35 PM   #4
markdtn
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Default Re: Need to replace oxy-acetylene torch set

I just had an Airco regulator rebuilt by the people who do our bottles at work. Only cost like $60. I had the torch built about 12 years ago, and I think it was about $50. I don't use either enough to justify new. I would get what you have rebuilt-it's as good or better than what you can buy.
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Old 10-15-2019, 03:24 PM   #5
fordcragar
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Default Re: Need to replace oxy-acetylene torch set

If you liked your Airco torch, get it rebuilt.

My first torch was a MECO Jet; which is lightweight and not clunky. I tried to buy a cutting torch for it in the mid 1960’s and was offered a good trade in for a new Victor 100. I liked the Victor and still use it today, for some things. Over the years working in different body shops I had the use of some torches that I liked better.

I remember when the Dillon (Henrob) came out in the 1970’s, all of the articles about them seemed like they were a great deal, but a torch that I couldn’t afford then. Over the years I’ve heard of more of them sitting on shelves than being used. Fast forward to ten years ago, I had an opportunity to watch a couple of Henrob demos and bought one. It is awkward and clunky but has some nice features. I heard that some people just can’t weld with them, but maybe they can’t gas weld with anything else either.

A couple of years ago, I saw a MECO Jet torch body at a swap meet for $1; which I bought. It took me a while to find a cutting head and all of the needed welding tips, but this was and is my favorite welding torch.

So I still use my old Victor, the Henrob and the MECO Jet. To swap back and forth I have quick change fittings on everything.

If you still decide to get a different torch set up, try it before you buy.
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Old 10-15-2019, 05:30 PM   #6
JSeery
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Default Re: Need to replace oxy-acetylene torch set

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Ask this question on the HAMB and you should get some spirited replys.
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Old 10-16-2019, 05:55 AM   #7
Terry,OH
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Default Re: Need to replace oxy-acetylene torch set

I have the jewelers torch from Mico and the slightly larger torch also Mico. Like them both. I too vote for a rebuild of your existing equipment. Maybe new tips will help performance.
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Old 10-16-2019, 09:20 AM   #8
deuce_roadster
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Default Re: Need to replace oxy-acetylene torch set

Since I got my plasma cutter yeas ago, I can't remember the last time I used my cutting torch to cut. I might have used it years ago when my rosebud was loaned out and I needed to heat something.
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Old 10-26-2019, 09:17 AM   #9
barnfind
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Default Re: Need to replace oxy-acetylene torch set

I don't use gas often but when I do I prefer Henrob.
Just like Dos Equis.
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Old 10-26-2019, 09:45 AM   #10
philipswanson
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Default Re: Need to replace oxy-acetylene torch set

I only use Victor parts.
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Old 10-26-2019, 10:20 AM   #11
rotorwrench
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Default Re: Need to replace oxy-acetylene torch set

Airco was bought out by Concoa so there may still be stuff available depending on what model you have. Is this a small torch set up or is it a standard size set up?

I use a Smith standard size set up for most of my cutting needs that exceed the thickness of the plasma cutter. I weld with a small aircraft type torch set up on thin metals. Aircraft type torches are still available from Harris, Victor, and Smith. They are all likely made in Asia but they should work just the same. It just depends on what you want to use it for.

The pistol grip types would put me away from the metal too far and I wouldn't be able to steady my hand as well. My hands were steady when I was younger but not as much the older I get. I prefer a traditional shaped torch handle & tip set up myself.

Last edited by rotorwrench; 10-26-2019 at 10:36 AM.
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Old 10-27-2019, 08:19 AM   #12
37 Cab
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Default Re: Need to replace oxy-acetylene torch set

X2 on the Smith.
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Old 10-27-2019, 08:39 AM   #13
rotorwrench
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Default Re: Need to replace oxy-acetylene torch set

The only thing I don't like about the Smith set up is that I have to keep O-rings in my inventory for them. Other than that, it's a good set up. The O-rings can be a pain but they certainly seal up well as long as they are in good condition. Some torch handles use a tapered seat to seal but they have to be maintained in good clean condition or they can lose their sealing capability with time.

I also use 2-stage regulators. They are expensive but they maintain the gas pressure better when using a small aircraft type torch.
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Old 10-27-2019, 10:00 AM   #14
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Default Re: Need to replace oxy-acetylene torch set

I agree on the O rings but like you said, they seal up very well. I always lick em before installing..
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