WP 18 torch is a monster..replace it with a smaller one and well worth it.

[Steve]

I've been doing quite a bit of welding with my Powertig 250EX and it works really well....except the torch is way too big and the cables are way too stiff to allow for more precise control of the torch.

So I went out and bought a Weldec WT-20F-25 225 AMP water cooled tig torch. I read some of the other posts about changing out the torch and thank you for all the information on what is needed.

I highly recommend getting a smaller torch. The WP18 that is supplied by Everlast is a monster compared to the Weldtec torch. I understand that Everlast has smaller torches now available for switching out to a more comfortable torch. The Weldtec torch is a flex head and is really nice. My welds got better when I switched to this torch. The WP18 factory torch is just too stiff and heavy for comfortable welding for any length of time.

Check out some of the other posts on Powertig 250 torch replacement and you will get some really good information on what you need to do.

[Paul Moir]

I have a WP-20 style Everlast torch (same form factor) and use it 95% of the time compared to the WP-18 for the same reasons as you, particularly the lighter cabling. If I did more aluminium I might use the bigger torch more often (and/or cool the WP-20)
It makes sense to have the WP-18 with the welder since you can use all of the machine's capability with it. But a small, easy to use torch is more useful generally.

[Steve]

I have a WP-20 style Everlast torch (same form factor) and use it 95% of the time compared to the WP-18 for the same reasons as you, particularly the lighter cabling. If I did more aluminium I might use the bigger torch more often (and/or cool the WP-20)
It makes sense to have the WP-18 with the welder since you can use all of the machine's capability with it. But a small, easy to use torch is more useful generally.

I agree Paul.

Everlast did the right thing in using the WP-18 as the standard torch as it is a bulldozer and can be used for everything. But it is big and the cables make for a tough go of it sometimes.
So getting the smaller WP-20 torch was a no brainer for me. The Flex head is awesome and I can now get into smaller areas that I had trouble with before. And no sore wrists or arms now either.

I'll be getting the watercooler pretty soon as I am now running a hose and dump system. I like the idea of using the Everlast cooler as it ties directly to the welder powerwise. So I don't have to worry if it is on or not. Not only that, but the price sure is right! I like the idea of just turning on the machine and weld instead of setting up the hose every time I want to weld.

[revkev6]

I'm interested in the everlast wp20 for my 225lx. I don't have a cooler at the moment, although I do plan to get one in the future. what kind of amperage can you run the wp20 without a cooler?? I'm thinking of getting one before it gets cold as the wp18 is horrible to deal with in the cold. the cables are so big and inflexible in the cold weather....

can anyone make a direct comparison of the two torches?? maybe some pictures of them side by side??

[performance]

Do NOT use the 20 without water...or the 18 for that matter. IF you must keep it under 100 amps for 18 and 80 amps for 20.

[revkev6]

any chance I could get a side-by-side picture of them?? is the sheathing that covers the cables the same material that becomes rock hard in the cold as the one on my wp18??

[bigjoeinkg]

Mark,
May want to get the sales people on the same line. Here is an e-mail I received on this topic.

BEGIN QUOTE

Joe
You can test the unit just don't weld over 250a wig out the cooler for a long time



Sincerely,


Oleg Gladshteyn.

END QUOTE