on another note, i have a regulator with a pressure gauge for the output. It has 3 scales: pressure, argon and CO2 flow. Pic is here: http://jw.cautela.nl/gallery/main.php?g2_itemId=3350
When should i read the flow? With the gas flowing (like when i am welding) or with the gas outlet closed off?
Im assuming you mean single stage reg, with 2 gauges bottle pressure and flow..
In answer to your question, with the gas flowing, also I find the dial type regs a bit aprox, and not the best for TIG work(fine for the MIG), a pea shooter flow reg is much better.
may sound like a stupid question but where do i read the flow rate from a ball flow meter? at the bottom, midle or top?