propane regulator?

[metalmagpie]

I have a Magnum roofing torch, a fine tool. I bought it off ebay a long time ago. It has a long hose and a small propane regulator. I actually bought them originally just for the hose & regulator, intending to use them on a small propane forge. Yesterday I finished a small forge for a friend and decided to test it in my shop. We used the hose & regulator. The regulator was probably made in Italy. It has a cast pot-metal body with a threaded hole that says "GAUGE" which, however has no opening into the regulator body. In use, the regulator does not leak out the gauge hole.

I have seen inexpensive regulators before with blind threaded holes intended for gauges. What is the procedure for opening such holes? I'm sure I could simply drill a hole in the bottom - there is a dimple in there which would nicely center a drill bit - but that would almost certainly push metal chips into the body of the regulator, where I don't want them.

Thanks, metalmagpie

[JL Sargent]

I'm thinking it would certainly have to come apart. And by taking it apart you take a chance on damaging the seal(s). On the gas forges I have built I use a HP regulator at the tank feeding a nice needle valve near the forge. With that I have a very fine control over heat by sight and sound. No gauges on those.

[Walter A]

Hook it up to low pressure compressed air then drill. Make sure you wear safety gear.

Walter A.