which of these oxy-acetylene setups

[amashinga]

I'd offer about seventy bucks for the L-tec which is in the long and distinguished line of Oxweld/Purox/Linde/L-tec/Prest-O-Weld equipment.

It's top-quality gear and I have their torches from the 1930s and '40s which work very well, but it's used and an unknown quantity.

The acetylene regulator isn't an L-tec (looks like an Airco, also still rebuildable and a good brand) and the seller won't move them fast since almost no one not into OA equipment knows anything about those brands.

I'd inspect in person since the photos aren't good.

I recommend you get this quality Smith Toughcut instead. Right at your price range and ready to go. You can add an LP tip and run either fuel. They survive welding student abuse and are a good basic set. The regulators are used on more expensive Smith sets too and can supply larger torches if needed. Throw the included goggles in the trash and get a tinted face shield instead.

Smith Equipment MB55A-510 Toughcut Cutting, Welding Outfit

I destroy cheap offshore torches when I get them in Ebay lots. I refuse to inflict them on anyone else.

I am going with your suggestion, you cannot get those easily in Canuckland, but I found some online retailers for the smith set that will ship up here.

Thanks

 

[monckywrench]

I'm sure you will be pleased with the Smith. Don't forget a couple of spare cutting tips, which you can also get off Ebay.

See the tip charts for your torch after you receive it, or check the Smith site.

You would do well to check the Air Liquide folks recommended by deereman75, as good welding suppliers aren't always easy to find. You'll need tanks and consumables for which local suppliers are important. If you want something to buy to break the ice, check out face shields for cutting and try one on before purchase.

Find out which used tanks they will exchange in case you can score a set cheap. Every welding supply company has different customs.