LSP972

My Feedback: (13)

I'm preparing to do a couple of vintage bipe kits- Sig SkyBolt and GP Super AeroMaster- which will entail a lot of soldering wire-wrapped joints. I've got a big propane torch that works for this (I did a set of float struts with it), but it is a bit unwieldy and I'm uneasy lighting off that bad boy in the house.

What's the story on this $25 Hobbico Pro Torch II? Is it a decent item, or another cheap Asian knock-off? Anybody used it to do wrapped joints?

If this thing is NOT acceptable for that, can you recommend a small torch that is?

LSP972

My Feedback: (13)

Nobody has used this gadget?

Guess maybe it would have gotten better exposure if the post had been left where I put it originally...

flipstart

Steve-I do not own one but a friend of mine does- it is the Radio Shack but looks similiar. I have used his and it works ok. I have just used a propane torch for so long, can't change, but like you -using one in the house doesn't sound safe. I have fthought about buying one but just have not yet-one thing about Hobbico-you can send that bad boy back easy enough if it does not suit you. Pretty neat to refill with butane like the old lighters. Flipstart

rb4123

When I was in the Marine Corps, I had one of these in my pocket whenever I went out onto the flightline. It's a great soldering iron, and you can take the tip off to make a little blow torch. Plus it;s cheaper than the one you mentioned. But if you do use it, the stupid striker in the cap never lights it. I just use a lighter to get it going. [link]http://www.radioshack.com/product.asp?catalog%5Fname=CTLG&category%5Fname=CTLG%5F011%5F009%5F007%5F003&product%5Fid=64%2D2188[/link]

LSP972

My Feedback: (13)

Thanks, rb, but I need the flame to handle the large areas of wrapped wire. I have a good 100-watt gun for smaller areas; push rod clevis', etc.

<<...you can send that bad boy back easily enough if it doesn't suit you...>>

Of course. You're right; the consumer reigns, these days. The thought of returning it because I wasn't satisfied never entered my mind. Gotta modify that mind-set.

Thanks for the reality check. I'll order one this week...

rb4123

That torch is awesome as long as you plan on moving from one section to another. You have to remember that solde melts at about 700 degrees, and those torches put out anywhere from 1500-2500 degree flames, so they will do the job. Maybe not nearly as fast as a full size torch, but they will still get it done.

Ernie Misner

Micro torches are great little tools. I have the Bernzomatic version from Home Depot. The Hobbico torch looks almost identical but is cheaper. They use butane refills that come in large sizes at smoke shops. The butane burns very hot, but they can be adjusted way down to a pinpoint flame is desired. You have to use heat management whether using an iron or torch.

I bought mine for brazing thin aluminum when building mousse can mufflers. Harbor Freight tools has some aluminum brazing rod that is affordable and works great.

Ernie

flipstart

Hey Ernie-glad you mentioned brazing aluminum-I have heard about the rods at Harbor Freight but have not been able to pin down what rods they have. Did a search on their site and no luck-do you have a stock no. and how do they work. I have only used the argon gas method some time back. Flipstart