gasket999
getting there...
- Messages
- 354
- Location
- Manchester, UK
Hi folks.
After around 5-years of storage, I’ve finally broke out my Clarke 160TM welder and put it in my new workshop.
I fired it up yesterday with a new bottle of Hobbyweld 5 and... it still works! It was used every weekend for a year and then parked-up into storage.
it was a bit sticky in use and I think it could benefit from a good service and maybe a few upgrades.
was wondering if anyone had a list of parts to replace as a matter of course and a list of suggested upgrades while I’m at it.
A few observations:
- I’ve just used the Clarke-supplied gas regulator for the first time, having previously just used the flow-type fitted to my dad’s big gas bottles. It’s a nice little regulator but only shows the pressure in the bottle. It’s a weird control too - if I ‘open’ it all the way with the knob (counterclockwise) then the gas flow actually stops: almost like a ball-valve.
- The spools of wire I have (Lincoln in 0.6 and 0.8) have a slight bit of rust. Can the spool be saved? Eg: stripping off the top layer or even wire brushing.
- The earth clamp is a little loose, so may be time for an upgrade if anyone has any recommendations.
- I'm guessing the liner is due a replacement - is Teflon or steel the preferred route? Any sources would be welcome.
- I did leave the wire under tension, so conscious I may need to replace the spring in the tensioner.
- If there are any other parts worth replacing while I’m ordering then let me know (eg swan neck, contact tip holder, etc)
Any tips on bringing it back up to spec would be very welcome.