Harris 79 cutting torch

[ckucia]

I just bought one on ebay. Cost me $40 which is a fair price I think considering the obscurity. If it's not usable then I'm not out a lot. Hoping with a little investment and time it will be a usable tool.

I searched the web and I can't find a reference to a Model 79 by Harris. Based on the pics, the 79 is pretty prominent on the side of the cutting torch as is Harris. Also says the top is forged.

I was hoping to find a rebuild kit for it and maybe get welding torches for the handle.

Anyone know where I might find some reference on this? If you google Harris Model 79, the ebay listing will show up with the pics but that's about the extent of useful hits.

 

[ckucia]

If these post, here are some pics

 

[nutjob]

Try here. I did not see this model but contact them and see if they can help.

https://regulatortorchrepair.com/

Kevin

 

[ckucia]

Thanks. I'll reach out to them once I've received it.

Looking at the diagrams, I suspect the Model 79 is just a variation on the Model 73, but I could be wrong.

 

[ckucia]

Got the torch today. Its in better condition than the pics would indicate.

Handle is a 23-A. Going to reach out to a few places to get a cutting tip and any rebuild kits available.

Also picked up a 63-2 handle with a welding tip and some old Harris regulators I haven't even had a chance to look at.

This is a long term project so I dont have any gas yet.

 

[ckucia]

Reached out to Harris. Very fast response but, as I expected, these items are too old for any parts or documentation to be available.

Still waiting to hear from a couple of companies that supply Harris rebuild kits and parts.

FWIW the Acetylene regulator is a 441P and the Oxygen regulator is a N443.

Looks like stuff's commonly available for the 63-2 handle.

 

[ttpete]

That's a welding torch with a cutting attachment. You're missing the tip holder for welding. Try looking for a #79 cutting attachment.

 

[ckucia]

Two of the three places I reached out to came up empty. "Obsolete" is a term that came up both times. I really hate that word. I know there are likely better sealing materials these days, but I doubt the modern torches and regulators are as well built as these old timers.

The 79 and it's 23-A handle look quite a bit like the 73, for which parts are available. I may take a stab at one of those kits and see what is compatible. Chances are at least some bits are, hopefully including the tip and retaining nut. I haven't disconnected the cutting torch to see if it fits on the 63-2 handle yet, although I suspect it won't.

There appears to be a guy on the web who rebuilds torches. I will probably reach out to him once I hear from the last place to which I inquired.