View Single Post
  #14  
Old 06-30-2018, 07:55 AM
Rick Mullin Rick Mullin is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Mar 2012
Location: Malvern,PA
Posts: 157
Default

I would agree that it is a gas problem. My first thought was bad gas but you said you have not made any changes ( new gas bottle, different gas mix, new tungsten). I have never heard of gas going bad in a bottle with extended time but one never knows. Some of those bottles date back to WWII. Try switching to a pure Argon bottle. I would be looking for damage to the gas system, primarily the torch. Typically a leak is not going to draw atmospheric gas in but reduce the amount of forced gas. Although you say you can hear gas coming out, it is probably insufficient. Take the cover off your torch hoses and inspect it for holes or crimping. As the plastic lines age, they can harden. I had a TIG in my garage at home for years. It hung on a hook. With time and seasonal temperature changes a crimp developed in the line and it caused a problem similar to what you are describing.

I would suggest switching to pure Argon as the gas of choice for all of your general needs.
__________________
Rick
Reply With Quote