Torches one more time.

I'm just a junkyard welder, need to cut up to 1/2" five or six times a year. I have a Prestolite W250 torch, and it has been adequate, up until today. I used a friend's torch (from Snap On, didn't get the name) and it's like a whole new world. I never realized what a POS mine was.

My complaint with mine is that the valves are WAY too coarse, adjustment wise. I just barely crack the valves (with gas @ 5-7 psi and oxy @ 20) to get the proper flame, and the slightest disturbance will change things enough to blow the flame out. Also, it takes a LOT of preheating to cut 1/2" with it.

So, my questions are these:

1. Is there something wrong with my torch that can be fixed, or is it just a cheap unit, and;

2. What should I expect to pay for a better torch for an occasional home user?

If you had the gauges already you would only need a mixing chamber and cutting head providing the hose connectors are the same. I would suggest the Victor 100 mixing chamber and cutting head.

T_Bone

I do have the packing nuts, I'll try snugging them down and see how it goes.

Thanks again...

T_Bone