Smaller TIG torch? Need advice.

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I have a WP-17 torch for my Syncrowave 200.  It is pretty large to get into small spaces.   The diameter of the nozzle is not an issue, is is the length of the nozzle and the head plus the cap that becomes a problem.   I typically weld around 100 amps DC or less.   Rather than get involved in a water cooled torch, I was thinking of a WP-9 or similar from another company, rated for 125 amps DC.  I know a lot of you love a water cooled torch, but my shop is not heated, and I don't have a cooler, so it sounds impractical to me.I called my LWS, and they said $175 for torch with connector and small parts, ready to weld.  Sounded like a lot of money.  I called Weldmart.com, and they said that their Lincoln PTA-9 for $60 did not include the Dinse connector with gas through the connector, or the collet, nozzle, and other small parts.  So kind of apples and oranges on pricing.  It sounds like I might save some money by buying on line, but then I would have to go back to my LWS to get the small parts, and not sure what that would cost me.So is $175 for a torch, ready to weld, way too much?   Does it matter if I buy a Weldcraft or a Lincoln or other brand?  What do I need to look for to make sure that I get a good torch?  What kind of hose?  Not sure how much I would use the smaller torch, although I suppose if I really liked it, it might become my regular torch.   I would keep the larger torch for higher currents, especially on AC.  In any event, I don't TIG weld every day, or even every week, but when I get on a project, I might use it a few hours a day until the project was complete.  I have never bought a TIG torch, they always came with my TIG welder.RichardSculptures in copper and other metalshttp://www.fergusonsculpture.comSyncrowave 200 Millermatic 211Readywelder spoolgunHypertherm 600 plasma cutterThermal Arc GMS300 Victor OA torchHomemade Blacksmith propane forge
Reply:There is no contest between a water cooled torch and an air cooled unit. Just get the water cooled unit, and feed it from a hose bib with very low pressure/ feed. Let the drain line run outside, or into a sink, etc. My 250A torch head is literally as short as 1/2 the length of your thumb with the stubby butt cap. It fits in incredibly small spots.And then, after so much work...... you have it in your hand, and you look over to your side...... and the runner has run off. Leaving you holding the prize, wondering when the runner will return.
Reply:Your 9 series torch will work for what you want.A water cooled torch is nice also.You could just buy the torch head and service kit and use your existing 17 series hose assy. as they are the same.I have all 3 but the h20 is the go too for me.That is my 2¢Vinnie
Reply:I dont know why you would ever need to have a water cooled torch at 125 amps.UA Local 598
Reply:Just change out the long cap for the button style and use short tungstens. If you still have difficulty accessing the weld joints, then you should consider changing your set up. I agree that at the amperage you are welding at, a water cooled torch is an unnecessary expense. Nice, but not needed.
Reply:Thanks to all for their comments.   I did go to the button caps with my WP-17, but the torch head is still 3 inches tall, too tall when the space is only 2 inches wide or so.    The WP-9 head is around 2 inches tall, so will fit better.  I can lean the torch over if it is just a bit too tall.  I should note that the space is not consistent, and I can bend the part some to increase the space, so there is some leeway.I notice that there are "micro" TIG torches that are smaller, but they would need water cooling, and they apparently cost double the standard torches.  I suspect that consumables are more expensive and less readily available.The WP-9 air cooled torch is the same size and uses the same consumables as the popular WP-20 water cooled torch.  My guess is that many of you with water cooled torches use the WP-20, as it is rated for 250 amps continuous, and is relatively small.  If you had a WP-20 setup you would be covered across the board, even if your TIG could put out 300 amps.I did get an email from one supplier who quoted me $104 for the CK9 torch with the DINSE gas through the hose connector.  That sounded good.   For another $15 or so I could buy enough consumables to get started.  I am assuming that CK is a good brand of torch.RichardSculptures in copper and other metalshttp://www.fergusonsculpture.comSyncrowave 200 Millermatic 211Readywelder spoolgunHypertherm 600 plasma cutterThermal Arc GMS300 Victor OA torchHomemade Blacksmith propane forge
Reply:You could get a stubby collet body setup for your WP17 torch, which will use the short WP9/20 style cups.  They are available in both gas lens and regular (non-gas lens) style.  See attached pics for comparison between "full size" regular and gas lens front ends, vs stubby regular and gas lens front end setups. Attached Images
Reply:I switched from a 17 to a 9 torch and I am glad I did, I also use the braided hose instead of the rubber one (like in the picture above from jakeru.Regards.Working on cars and bikes is my hobby, learning to weld the pieces together is my quest.
Reply:Originally Posted by WHughesI dont know why you would ever need to have a water cooled torch at 125 amps.
Reply:Originally Posted by Donald BranscomYou will find out real quick after 2 or 3 2 inch long welds.