[AT] Torch kit

[Richard Walker]

> So by the time I get all this equipment I'll be looking at about $1000 
> bill; to rich for my blood. I'll start keeping my eyes open for a used 
> set.


Be very aware that if you buy a used set from a private party or at 
auction, the refill/exchange status of the tanks might be a major issue, 
as others have mentioned.  For example an unsuspecting buyer could take 
a used tank to be exchanged/refilled and the welding supply house 
refuse.  Or, worse, legally confiscate that tank because its number 
referenced it as leased and not customer owned.

It's always been a gray area about tanks. Non-uniform rules seem to 
apply depending in what area of the country you live, between company to 
company, store to store, and even who you deal with at the counter.  
Unfortunately the big companies like PraxAire and AirGas are rapidly 
buying up independent dealers, manipulating tank policies to maximize 
their profits, and things are not getting any better.

If you're considering buying from a private party, see if the seller 
would allow you to take photos of the tank necks where the serial 
number, lease number (if any) and hydrotest date are stamped.  Or at 
least write down that info.  Inquire at your local welding supply 
house(s) to make sure the bottles can be exchanged or refilled.

If a used torch set is being sold at an auction, sometimes the 
auctioneer will state that only the items of welding equipment are being 
sold, and the tanks will be given to the buyer at no charge.  This 
absolves the auction company of any legal liability in case title to the 
tanks turns out to be a problem.

I had a 120 CF nitrogen cylinder lying around for many years that 
originally came off a foam fire fighting apparatus I'd bought cheap at 
auction mainly to salvage its two hose reels and hoses. I had long 
wanted to get the tank refilled with Argon mix for MIG welding, but knew 
I'd have problems so never bothered - not customer/owned; obsolete 
valve; years out of hydro-test date.  When a friend was about to buy a 
plasma cutter from the local AirGas dealer, I asked to tag along with 
the tank.  After some initial head shaking by the counter guy, I figured 
I was sunk.  But when my friend started paying for his plasma cutter the 
guy tipped me a wink, brought back an exchange cylinder of Argon mix, 
said he was going to stick my tank on the pallet of empties going back 
to the main plant, and I only had to pay $35 exchange price for the gas 
contents.


-  Richard