Propane torches (i.e. Benz-o-matic) and flex hose question

[1982fxr]

I've had terrible luck with the standard propane torches in the last few years. Seems even the new ones don't want to stay lit in standard upright position. . IIRC i posted on here about it and it had something to do with the epa screwing up what the company could manufacture.

I need one with more flexibility as far as angles. Are the hoses any better?

http://www.homedepot.com/p/Bernzomatic-WH0159-Universal-Torch-Extension-Hose-334246/202539579

 

[CJM8515]

I dont use the regular torch heads anymore for that reason. Dont wanna stay lit when upside down. I use the self igniting one ts9000 I recall. No issues. But then again the torch head is something like 8 years old so they might have changed them by now.

 

[gdocktor3]

That flexible hose would most definitely help. I am a plumber by trade and 9 out of 10 times I use an acetylene B tank with flexible hose. Not only does it never go out, but its a lot hotter. In the past week I bought 2 tanks from 2 different pawn shops. One about 3/4 full for $15 and one about 1/4 full with brand new hose and torch tip for $40. I'd suggest keeping your eye open for a B tank and just use that, if possible..

 

[The Cobbler]

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ yup,acetylene b or mc tank with torch & don't look back.

 

[Finky198]

I have the ts8000 with that hose. Usually running acetylene. it's my go to torch setup when heating small part or removing stuck fasteners. It's great and can get into a ton of tight spaces but at the same time can quickly be converted back to the std... configuration.

One of my fav tools granted I have access to bigger torches when the need arises...

 

[Knucklescrape]

I purchased one of those from HD a few months ago to help me sweat some copper pipes and a ball valve for my shut off to my sprinkler system. This hose really made the job easy after I had previously failed several times with my standard torch/propane botttle setup that constantly went out if I pointed it slightly down plus the bottle reduced my manueverability. This hose allows you to hold the torch at any angle plus keeps the bottle about 3 feet away.

 

[dutchgray]

Never used anything but a flex hose propane torch. Gas is cheaper in proper bottles as well.