Hi, I am new to this forum, and new to welding

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Hello, I am new to welding, but I come to this site as I have recently come into some equipment as part of a larger purchase.  I was buying some woodworking machinery, and as part of the deal, an oxyacetylene setup was thrown in. What I have is an oxygen tank, 250 cu. ft., an acetylene tank, don't know what size, but it is a somewhat greater than half the size of the oxygen tank. Included are regulators, a 15 ft hose, a 50 ft hose, a torch handle, two cutting torches and several tips, welding and cutting. The name on all of this stuff is a company named victor. There was also two helmets, and various glasses and face shields. The tanks are chained on to a cart with wheels. So, seeing that there is a couple of machines I would like to build, I need to learn how to use this stuff. In addition, I must say that I am a little concerned about having this stuff on my  back portch. Can these tanks be stored out side? The previous owner says that the tanks are about 3/4 full. The other thing I want to point out is that the tanks look pretty old. He gave me the paperwork that shows he purchased them in 1984, but they look old. The oxygen tank looks like it may have been painted green at some point, and the acetylene tank is black, with a sticker that states it's content as acetylene. I live in Sunnyvale, CA.  Any advice? Does anyone know were I can learn how to use this equipment.  I would say thankyou in advance for any advice someone would care to offer.Regardsbobl
Reply:Victor Equipment is one of the brand-name manufacturers of O/A equipment long recognized for its quality.  It sounds like you have good stuff, if it's all in decent shape.  It's OK to store the tanks outside, but secure them so they can't fall.On the top of the O2 tank, somewhere just below the vale, the last hydrosatic test date will be stamped in the steel.  O2 tanks need to be re-tested at 5 (I'm pretty sure) year intervals, so if you are out of date, you'll have to pay for a hydro test when you refill.  Acetylene tanks are low pressure; I don't believe they require hydro testing (not sure).As far as learning to use the equipment, I reccommend you buy a text that describes oxy/acetylene welding and cutting and read it first.I live about 3 hours north of you.  You're welcome to visit any time for a lesson.  e-mail me: [email protected] , or call me: (530) 741-3175 if you are interested.Hank