Which TIG Torch for Parweld XTS 163?

[ChasesDragons]

Hi all,
I want to have a meddle with TIG welding (car bodywork mainly, mild steel, perhaps a bit of aluminium later). I have a Parweld XTS 163, which has 35-50 (DINSE?) connectors.

I got a price for the recommended Parweld TIG Torch (WP17, valved) and its price seems close enough to make a play for a CK Brand torches that seem to be mentioned here a lot. Question is, as a beginner;

Is a CK Torch going to make learning and using Lift TIG easier and better than a Parweld? I think the answer has something to do with the CK carrying gas within its electrode cable (?) so might be more manouverable...
Any idea what exact model will would fit my XTS163?

Thanks all,

 

[addjunkie]

Buy a cheapie…..once you get the hang of tig you will want a better machine with HF start

 

[hotponyshoes]

I don't think a ck torch will make learning any easier than a slightly cheaper parweld torch or a substantially cheaper Unbranded torch.

The ck is more flexible and lighter so easier/nicer to use but I don't see it being much benefit when you are sitting at a bench practicing runs on bits of flat sheet.

Anything with a 35-50 size dinse plug and a gas valve will fit your welder.

Personally, I would get a cheaper torch (used?) to have a play and see if I like rather than spend £100+ now when that money could go towards a welder upgrade when you want to weld aluminium..

 

[masleeve]

I have a valved torch that has never been used , you are welcome to that for the price of the postage . Not sure what size of dinse is on it but will check

 

[ChasesDragons]

You are very kind, but I couldnt impose. I am lucky to be able to invest in something, as Ive been planning and budget for a while.

I would love someone more deserving to get your torch.

Glad to see this forum has not changed

 

[Shedendman]

Stick to mig for car body work

 

[Turbo]

Stick to mig for car body work

Agree 100%

If you're set on trying tig I would suggest going for a flex head torch.
I would also suggest going for a WP9 instead of a WP17.
It is a lot smaller, lighter and easier to use than a Wp17.
It is rated up to 125a so it will cover any bodywork welding.

 

[chrismac]

Agree 100%

If you're set on trying tig I would suggest going for a flex head torch.
I would also suggest going for a WP9 instead of a WP17.
It is a lot smaller, lighter and easier to use than a Wp17.
It is rated up to 125a so it will cover any bodywork welding.

But maybe just be aware the although the flexi neck has some movement, its not to be bent with in an inch of its life or it will die quite quick. have seen a few times guys break the flexi just by giving it more than its capable of ..... I would give them a fixed torch until they have mastered the initial stages of tig welding.

 

[masleeve]

You are very kind, but I couldnt impose. I am lucky to be able to invest in something, as Ive been planning and budget for a while.

I would love someone more deserving to get your torch.

Glad to see this forum has not changed

Not a problem , I will pop it in the for sale section , good luck

 

[ChasesDragons]

Ok, I think I have sufficient info:
I have a Portamig Mig welder. TIG is a similar interest - I just want to learn how to do it, the body work thing is simply a vehicle to learning than an objective.

Thanks for suggesting a 9 rather than a 17 size torch - I will go 9 nut look for one with a valve. I will look for a non flexible one because it may be better to start simple.

Any recommendations for a cheap valved, fixed head WP9 Torch with a fixed head?

Also, are all gas bottles the same fitting sizes for pressure gauges?

 

[hotponyshoes]

A flex head will only wear out if you flex it!
Ie. If you need to flex it for a job at least you have it and if you need it you can treat it as a consumable part.
They can be replaced individually (provided you purchase one that you can get parts for)

 

[hotponyshoes]

Basically 2 types of gas bottle fittings,
The disposable type (avoid)
Then anything bigger should have a standard thread.
Some of the rent free ones have the regulator and gauge built in and a quick-release connector which makes thins simple

 

[chrismac]

A flex head will only wear out if you flex it!
Ie. If you need to flex it for a job at least you have it and if you need it you can treat it as a consumable part.
They can be replaced individually (provided you purchase one that you can get parts for)

Try telling that to the youngsters who, need to fidget with everything, this topic could be compared to a remote (debate) in regards a flexi is a nice to have, some with move it just because they can, fine if it breaks and you have some in stock, a remote is a nice to have and some fiddle up and down an amp or 2 just because they can, I am sure you get what I mean, I am not disputing the place of a flexi neck, used them for years and respect them, some go through them like tea bags!

I dont think its needed for practising with the potential for it breaking if someone is learning how much it can be abused, its going to end in tears,