Handheld Torch, cutter?? Propane?

Alex van de Wetering · #1 04-03-10, 15:38

I have been trying to find out more about the handheld torches sometimes seen in car restorations (heating up nuts/bolts, bending sheet metal). They are roughly the size of a grease gun, with a similar curved neck and they seem to use a small cannister of gas (acetylene? propane?).
The advantage is that you don't need two huge gas cilinders as used in a normal acetylene torch....and therefor seem ideal to heat up bolts in a rusty CMP.

Sadly I can't seem to find them here in Holland,

Does anyone know of any manufacurers of supplier names, which culd help me in my search?

Alex

cletrac (RIP) · #2 04-03-10, 16:15

It's hard to imagine not being able to find a propane torch. Every hardware store has a few different types over here. What do plumbers use for soldering pipes if not a propane torch? The ones I have are Burnzomatic, Weller, and Mastercraft.

Howard · #3 04-03-10, 21:38

found here

Bob Carriere · #4 04-03-10, 21:40

...I believe for rusted nuts you would need more "brute" heat and the yellow cannister of Butane..... which will fit on a standard propane nozzle... is more appropriate.

Not sure of availability in Europe.

Boob

Alex van de Wetering · #5 15-03-10, 00:46

Quote:

It's hard to imagine not being able to find a propane torch.

I know

But somehow that it's a bit of a challenge to find them in Holland....or I am just getting old. Plumbers here do use a similar system, but most of them have a cilinder on a stand and a length of hose to the end of which the nozzle is attached. I was more interested in the systems with the cilinder attached to the nozzle without a hose, so I don't have the trouble of replacing the hose every two years.
Now that you guys have helped me with some manufacturers and links I have managed to find a few dealers here in Holland. Maybe it's the cilinder that's the problem here.....maybe a size of cilinder that is not too widespread(?)Given the fact that most torches here are twice as expensive as in Canada or Australia, I tend to think they are imported in small numbers.

Quote:

...I believe for rusted nuts you would need more "brute" heat and the yellow cannister of Butane..... which will fit on a standard propane nozzle... is more appropriate.

Bob, thanks for the tip. I have found cilinders filled with Propane, butane or a mix (in different ratios). Just like you say, I am not yet sure which ones are available here in our small country. I understand the decision whether to use Butane or Propane also corresponds with the temperature of your garage or working area.

thanks guys! Alex