clarke 130 en gas conversion

[patreusch]

i want to convert my 130 to gas but can't find the kit for the 130 would that work?
http://www.northerntool.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_6970_200126974_200126974

and for aluminum does it have to be 100 % argon?

 

[shenion]

All you will need for the 130EN will be a regulator. You will probably have to adapt the hose to fit. I used some 1/8" vacuum line to adapt to the 4mm plastic hose and used a bit of CA glue to keep it from pulling out.

Sears has the Clarke regulator.

Yes, for aluminum, it needs to be pure argon.

If you plan on doing aluminum, use 5356 wire or 0.035 4043 wire. The clarke will not feed the 0.030 4043 wire as it is too soft and needs a real high feed rate.

 

[patreusch]

so no solenoid? i thought it needed a solenoid and other stuff

 

[shenion]

The Clarke's have a gas vale as part of the trigger. No solenoid is needed.

BTW, I had a 130EN, they are nice machines.

Oh and welcome to the forums

 

[patreusch]

any special regulator or are all regulators the same? and what price should i pay (in dollars) for a regulator

 

[shenion]

The best regulators have a flow meter with a ball in a tube that rises up to show the flow.

A off-brand reg will be $50. Expect to spend $100 or more for a Smith or Harris. Stay away from Chinese junk.

The Clarke one from Sears is good, that is what I had and it is $50.