Euro Torch Conversion for Clarke 135TE **Help Needed Please**

[HANCYM]

I would like some sound advice from all you seasoned chaps please.
I would like to convert this to take a Euro Torch and have a couple of questions.

I assume it is possible on this MiG?
If so do I need to change the fed mech?

I realise I will need to install a gas solenoid so if anyone has done it and can tell me the most convenient place to pick up the 240v feed that would be good.

I'm a little confused as to what need to be removed/re-routed/modified on the existing bits on the machine. When I fit the Euro socket will it all come together seamlessly? Everything seems to be smudged together in the existing feed mech. so I'm assuming I can take all that apart and the feed out of that mechanism to the euro socket is possible?

Thanks in advance for your help!!

 

[weldequip]

Why do you want to convert it to a Euro-Torch?
weldequip

 

[HANCYM]

Existing one is a pain in the backside: Not that good quality, too short, the trigger is not that "nice" in terms of operation, if I forget to turn the gas off it bleeds through the trigger. Though I might as well do to a beeter quality setup.

 

[Iain Westland]

length of torch? ease of availability? something to pass the time

 

[HANCYM]

...plus I'm converting to a 6Kg CO2 cylinder with real live gauges so thought I'd go the whole hog!

 

[Iain Westland]

yea, they do hemorrhage gas, going through light way to quick at the moment

Iain

 

[weldequip]

People wanting to convert to Euro-Torches have usually; a/,not serviced their fixed-line torches properly & are having wire feed problems and/or b/.have been convinced by the marketing people at SIP/Sealey that a euro-torch is infinitely better than a fixed version, and worth paying a lot more for on a machine!
Fixed torches work fine when serviced properly. Euro-Torches are quicker & easier to service but can give equally annoying wire feed prolems when not kept in condition
Appreciate the torch length issue but converting a hobby MIG to a Euro-Torch is really not worth the hassle & cost in my opinion....go for the Euro-Torch option in the first place if you must...or keep your fixed torch well serviced .
weldequip

 

[HANCYM]

Sorry! What do you mean, "go for the euro torch option in the first place" I already have the fixed torch and it's too short! With all due respect, I'm looking for help and answers to my questions not rhetoric

 

[weldequip]

rhetoric

Not at all, good advice.
A Euro-Torch conversion for your machine will be the thick end of £100 & won't give any real benefits.
weldequip

 

[Shox Dr]

You can buy them off fleabay of less than 60quid. A lot less than the 400+ for a new machine with one


I have a 130 myself and cable lenght is a pain, (just pull it closer to the job) but I've managed for the last 20yrs with it. Doesn't get much use, and thats maybe why. It's OK for a quick point and shoot. I perfer TIG.

 

[shenion]

I added a removable torch to my 130EN and really liked it. I got fed up with the 2m torch.

I used a 4m and it worked great. Even worked fine with my 5m torch. I madea Tweco adapter as that is what the torches i have are.

I think DIYwelding sells the adapters.

 

[bigtaloola]

Hi just a question for Weldequip "I have a Clarke 130 myself and cable length is a pain" can it be lengthened in any way?
thanks Dave

 

[weldequip]

Not without fitting a Euro-Torch!
I've had direct wired torches made to order in longer lengths in the past, but they work out expensive.
weldequip

 

[bigtaloola]

Thanks just a thought I will just move the lot next to the bit i want to weld
cheers anyway Dave