Looking for a new Tig torch for trailblazer

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As the title says, I'm looking for a new Tig torch for my trailblazer 325. I don't plan to run a foot pedal, and was thinking about setting it up like a pipe rig. I have plenty of small wp9 and wp 20s in the shop, so I'm thinking either a 17 or 26. I'll need something with a gas valve and maybe a switch(optional as I have a ditch box with contact switch). What do you all use? What do you like? What do you recommend? Thanks in advance.Teach Ag Mech - Mike At Home:Lincoln Electric AC225Miller Challenger 172Gas AxeWork:eclectic bunch of 90's vintage blue boxes
Reply:I just have a 26 series torch with a gas valve. I usually just bite the adapter block with the stinger and drag the bottle close to where I am working and lay it down. It seems to work just fine. I very seldom tig in the field though.
Reply:I'd take a 9/20 sized torch over a 17/18/26 sized baseball bat any day. The CK 9 sized torches have duty cycle ratings similar to most standard 17 size torches like weldcrafts. IIRC the CK 9 sized air cooled torch ( Model number CK130) is rated at 130 amps 100% duty cycle vs something like 60% @ 150 amps for the 17 sized weldcrafts. This assumes you don't need the higher duty cycle of the 26 size torch.The CK130 comes in a rigid body, flexhead or flexloc swivel head if you want.https://www.arc-zone.com/index.php?m..._907_1375_1023https://www.arc-zone.com/index.php?m..._907_1383_1024https://www.arc-zone.com/index.php?m...2148_1455_1212Keep in mind the components of the 17/18/26 torches are different than those on your 9/20 sized units. You'll also need cups, collets, collet bodies, gas lenses  and so on to match the new style if you go with a 17/26 sized torch..No government ever voluntarily reduces itself in size. Government programs, once launched, never disappear. Actually, a government bureau is the nearest thing to eternal life we'll ever see on this earth! Ronald Reagan
Reply:Get a slimline torch from ck. Nearly as small as a 17, but with the capacity of a 26 (iirc). This way you won't run into hardly any duty cycle problems unless you're really pushing it. Shorten the front end with a stubby kits (gas lens or regular stubby collets) and you're good to go. 1st on WeldingWeb to have a scrolling sig! HTP Invertig 400HTP Invertig 221HTP ProPulse 300HTP ProPulse 200 x2HTP ProPulse 220MTSHTP Inverarc 200TLP HTP Microcut 875SC
Reply:I use a 17 series weldcraft with valve, everyday in the field it shop.  Only time I use a 26 is if i need the extra amps.
Reply:I actually found an old 17 in storage  it's a flex neck, but it beats buying a new oneTeach Ag Mech - Mike At Home:Lincoln Electric AC225Miller Challenger 172Gas AxeWork:eclectic bunch of 90's vintage blue boxes
Reply:I have a 17FV for sale for $60 shipped if you are interested.GravelThe difference between theory and practice is that in theory there is no difference.
Reply:Originally Posted by GravelI have a 17FV for sale for $60 shipped if you are interested.