What model Harris torch will fit my Craftsman?

admin

It looks like I may need to replace the handle on my Craftsman torch (it has a leaky oxy valve).  I have a model 624.54741 from 1970; you can see pictures of it on this Ebay expired (sigh) auction.  I believe the torch was build for Sears by Harris.  I don't often see Craftsman parts for sale but there appear to be plenty of Harris parts for various models.  Does anybody know what model handle might fit my torch?I've taken it to Sears for repair but they no longer have the parts to fix it.Thanks!
Reply:I'd wait for the OADoctor to come along.I'd almost bet that the needle seat can be cleaned up or maybe it may be just a failed packing under the packing nut for the valve stem.Somebody got a deal on the Ebay sale....Matt
Reply:I'm no expert, but would say the design of that torch doesn't resemble any Harris torch I'm familiar with. I agree with Matt; OA Doctor is your best bet, and you might hurry his noticing this thread by sending him a PM.
Reply:Deffinately a Harris, the welding blowpipe used the interchangeable copper tips of the 1390 series. Depending on the diameter of the threaded portion of the handle where the mixer attaches, Im thinking its going to take either the type 16 or 85 mixer. So if you can measure that OD accurately that should tell us.
Reply:Thanks for the help guys.  I'll send OADoctor a pm soon.  I saw his web site but it didn't look like he had a replacement handle.  He did have some replacement valves but I'm not sure they'll fit my torch.I don't have calipers so this may be off but the outside diameter of the threads on the handle looks to be 7/8s of an inch.  I tried removing the valve but didn't see anything wrong.  However, it would have to be pretty #&@^ obvious for me to notice it.
Reply:Originally Posted by makoman1860Deffinately a Harris, the welding blowpipe used the interchangeable copper tips of the 1390 series. Depending on the diameter of the threaded portion of the handle where the mixer attaches, Im thinking its going to take either the type 16 or 85 mixer. So if you can measure that OD accurately that should tell us.
Reply:Good news and bad news.    First the bad- the torch is  not a Harris.  All of the Craftsman torches (and most of the regulators) made by Harris are still repairable.  I think it was made by NCG, not positive.Part's have been obsolete for years for this torch. Now the good- I can still get the cutting lever valve and cutting tips. Also, I have purchsed inventory of several repair shops of the years and have about $20,000 worth of old obsolete inventory. (Going to write it all of next year to keep Uncle Sam from digging so deep into my pocket when taxes go up)  In all the old parts,I think I have the valves you need.  I won't be sure until Monday, when I am back at the shop.  I got your PM, so I will respond to it on Monday and let you know what I find out.JimOAdoctorwww.regulatortorchrepair.com
Reply:Hit on this while searching for a rebuild of my Sears torch, model 624.54741.  Bought it new about 35-40 years ago, Sears does not have parts.  Went to Harris, they said Rego in North Carolina built it.  Rego said it was built by Bastain-Blessing Company of Chicago who is out of business.  Probably time for a new torch, just curious if others had ideas.