hand torch problem

[lancepr]

On My hypertherm 85, I use a hand torch to clean up some cuts from time to time. Today it was cutting really bad and went to take the tip apart, the spring on the electrode was broken and the little chrome dome on top of the electrode is fused to my torch head.
I have tried pulling it off with needle nose and some small pics, but it is not moving.
Anyone ever had this happen? How did you get it apart? I hate to buy a whole new torch.

[acourtjester]

the manual shows in the parts list a kit for the 75 degree torch main body replacement 228714 before May 2012 228958 after May 2012.
Looks like a call to Tech support to check on that.

[weldguy]

Oh man, that's a bummer. Sounds like the electrode may have been used beyond it's intended lifespan. Hafnium insert could have burned up and overheated the remainder of the electrode. I think your best bet is to take the plastic hand held torch body apart and carefully remove the remainder of the electrode and try to smooth out the electrode mating face in the torch with a fine file and put the torch back together.

[lancepr]

I ordered the replacement, thanks for the part numbers!
just no good way to get up in to the head of this thing

[adbuch]

I would try to drill and tap, and then thread bolt into hole and pull out.
David

[weldguy]

Ah ya, I should have looked before I posted, that's deeper in there than I remembered. What a drag. I agree that replacing that part of the torch is the best solution. At least you have it apart now, hopefully it didn't cost you too much.