Best torch set up?

[Iliketostrip]

I'm looking at this one

http://pages.ebay.com/link/?nav=item.view&alt=web&id=201079086733

itd be for home use only.


Is it worth it?

 

[zkling]

Depends on your uses. Cutting anything larger than ~1/8", the oxy goes fast, very fast. Then you are limited by the acetylene withdraw rate. For the occasional nut/bolt or small braze job they are handy, but you pay for the convenience by the fill cost. Additionally some weld shops can be persnickety about filling the small bottles.

 

[Cope]

Spend a little more and get a larger set. You won't have any cuting capacity and not much welding/brazing. That set is designed for A/C use.

 

[Brians VWss]

As others have said, get a larger set. That is the H/F set up. For the money you could buy off craigslist. Just be sure to check with your local welder supply on getting used bottles filled or x changed.

 

[bobcatdan]

Those port a torches are alright units as long as you are realistist about what you can do with the tank capacity. They can cut and they can heat, but for only so long. For home use I see them as an OK option since they don't take up much room and can be easily thrown in the truck.

 

[Chevy-SS]

Spend a little more and get a larger set. You won't have any cuting capacity and not much welding/brazing. That set is designed for A/C use.

Yeah, I agree with this. I have the next larger setup, with two tanks and a cart with wheels. It's perfect for the DIY'er. That one in your link looks small, unless you're going to use it infrequently.......

 

[Loscaldazar]

If you're going to get that one, get it from harbor freight with a 25% off coupon (making the price $210+ tax)
http://www.harborfreight.com/portable-torch-kit-with-oxygen-and-acetylene-tanks-65818.html

But, the small tanks really will limit you. Anything more than taking off a few nuts/bolts you will run out quickly.

Also, they will usually charge you more per unit of gas for a smaller tank than they will a bigger tank.

 

[gol4]

Having been through this recently. I bought used Oxy-acetylene off Cl and came out OK but If I had to do it over again I would start off with an Oxy-propane setup:

I would buy a new torch and regulators off E-Bay.
Get a Type T hose off Amazon.
Craigslist for an oxygen bottle or just rent one.
Craigslist or the backyard grill for a propane tank.
HF or Northern for a cart.

Unless you plan on welding the oxy propane will meet your needs for most things that require a torch.

As other point out those tanks are way too small and you will find your self upgrading in a short time.