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- Apr 17, 2012
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I've got a Smith O/A setup with the smaller torch and gauges. (Don't remember the exact model numbers, but the torch uses the -200 series tips.) I bought it new maybe 15 years ago, and have used it occasionally. I have never been able to get it to hold a flame adjustment. It just slowly (maybe over a 2-3 minute period) goes from oxidizing to carburizing and back. It's most noticeable of course with the smaller 202 or 203 tips.
I had a set of the larger Smith regulators before, and they did the same thing. I took them back to the welding supply store for checkout, and they found nothing wrong. Now, I'm guessing I'll pretty much just get a blank stare from the people at the welding supply store, since it isn't MIG or TIG.
Is there some trick I don't know, are Smith regulators just useless for welding with small tips, or is there a shop somewhere that still understands aircraft O/A welding needs? I'm not quite ready to shell out for a TIG setup just yet.
Also, I bought a set of those really skinny hoses from Kent White at Oshkosh a few years back. They do make holding the torch easy, but it almost seems like the gas flow changes depending on the position of the torch, like the hoses are kind of pinching off the flow when they bend. Does anyone have experience with them?
Thanks!
Warren
I had a set of the larger Smith regulators before, and they did the same thing. I took them back to the welding supply store for checkout, and they found nothing wrong. Now, I'm guessing I'll pretty much just get a blank stare from the people at the welding supply store, since it isn't MIG or TIG.
Is there some trick I don't know, are Smith regulators just useless for welding with small tips, or is there a shop somewhere that still understands aircraft O/A welding needs? I'm not quite ready to shell out for a TIG setup just yet.
Also, I bought a set of those really skinny hoses from Kent White at Oshkosh a few years back. They do make holding the torch easy, but it almost seems like the gas flow changes depending on the position of the torch, like the hoses are kind of pinching off the flow when they bend. Does anyone have experience with them?
Thanks!
Warren
