This was an interesting thread,
I have a Speedway torch and have bought consumables from several on-line suppliers. They use standard consumables, never knew that some TEC torches used proprietary consumables. I have a CK torch as well as a back up but, I really like the TEC torches. Everyone has preferences, what makes the #428 your fav Trboat? I get the durability, all the Weldtec torches seem to be very well made. Is there something with the design of the special parts that stand out?
Steve
Steve- sorry for the delay.
It took me a while to notice your question then get out to shop and try to see what is floating my boat on this torch.
I guess at heart this Tec 428 is just a really nicely made heavy tig torch.
We all know tools- it’s pretty obvious when we get our hands on good quality kit.
Something about the 428- it’s not fancy at all- just simply and well built.
It might be any 350 amp torch will give the same impression compared to the lighter Weldtec gear I have.
One thing that is different that I like is the lack of o-ring I the caps- they seal on a brass taper and saves me looking at the typical shredded o-rings.
I also like the larger collets- it is not like the others give me any problem its just nicer to have larger parts to mess with.
I also like a non threaded nozzle setup- simple to knock off a hot one which has gotten contaminated and keep on rolling.
Maybe it's just that I am starting to do much more aluminum welding and this is just a far better setup for cranking it out for AL.
The two torches for the Hobart- I guess if I have a bunch of smaller stainless to do I will switch out to the 20f flex head torch.
Or I might not- I can choke up on the tec for lower amperage stuff and save changing out the gear all the time.