Help - Quick Connects???

[KLittle]

I have a quick connect/disconnect for my propane hose to attach to the propane tank but I am wondering if there is something similar that can be used for the torch itself to connect and disconnect from the hoses.

I have 2 torches in particular that I would like to be able to swap out without having to go through the task of pulling off the darn hoses and re-attaching them each time. I only have room for one torch to be set up at a time and am wondering if there is a quick connect/disconnect for this purpose.

Any ideas? Am I just dreaming or is this possible?

Kari

[GnomeGlass]

Yep! I use quick-connects at the end of my hoses so I can swap out between 2 torches with ease....
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21536

21535

Each torch has a little bit of hose permanently installed with male connectors on the ends. Pop off one torch and hook up the other...presto!

[KLittle]

Wow! Thanks for the reply and especially for the pictures! I am very excited now!

I guess I will have to invest in some new hoses with the brass fittings on both ends (since mine are cut off on the torch end) and then get the connectors for each set of hoses. I'll check with my local welding supply place.

Thanks again!

Kari

[GnomeGlass]

You're very welcome!

Actually you can keep using your existing hoses even if there's no "B" fittings on the ends as pictured above. You can purchase common brass barbs to install on each end of the quick connects and then just slip your hoses over the barbs and clamp them down. Your local welding supply shop should have the fittings you'd need. Just make sure you check for leaks when you're done installing and you should be good to go. Here's an exploaded view of how it works with both a male verson and female version quick connect:

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[KLittle]

Fantastic! That's even better! I'll print out the pic and take it with me.

Thank you so much.

Kari

[GnomeGlass]

Don't forget...brass fittings for propane won't turn the same as oxygen fittings. So, you'll need to make sure you get the right fittings for each. I made that mistake before...doh! Some fuel fittings have a perforated line around them giving you a visual clue that they're for fuel.

Good luck!

~Garth

[Nejoum]

I want to get a Quick Connect for my Propane tank.
If I just ask for a quick connect they should be able to get me the right one???
Or are there different kinds?
Diana

[GnomeGlass]

Check your favorite glass supplier and see if they carry quick connects. If they do they should be able to sell you exactly what you need.

I personally use Western Enterprises brand of Quick-Connects with built in Reverse Flow Check Valves. I got them through a glass supplier. One time I bought a set of quick connects from a welding supply shop but they weren't compatible with the lower pressures used in lampworking. Quick-Connects usually come in a set: one for oxygen and one for propane. Not sure if you can just buy one for propane only. If you go with Western Enterprises there are several versions depending on their installation: 1.) Torch to Hose 2.) Regulator to Hose 3.) Hose to Hose. You'd want 'Regulator to Hose' (model QDB30) so that it will screw onto your regulator and allow you to screw your hose onto the other end. If your hose doesn't have a "B" fitting on the end to screw on then you'll need to install one of the brass barbs (shown above) onto the hose end of the quick connect so that you can clamp your hose down over it.

:-)

[KLittle]

Great information in this thread! I rated it 5 stars!

Thanks again, Garth ....

Kari

[GnomeGlass]

My pleasure! :-D

~Garth

[Nejoum]

I use a HH Torch....No flow regulator.
It hooks male torch to female hose coupling.
And the Male hose coupling to tank.
I am getting tired of unhooking at the tank.
A quick connect would be much easer.
Diana

[Dale M.]

I use a HH Torch....No flow regulator.
It hooks male torch to female hose coupling.
And the Male hose coupling to tank.
I am getting tired of unhooking at the tank.
A quick connect would be much easer.
Diana


Keep in mind that tank/hose pressure with hot head can be up to 125 psi... Be sure QC is rated for at least that pressure and be aware the will be some "force" on hose/connection as you disconnect so have good grip on hose as you disconnect. Its not really dangerous, it is just a surprise the first time... Also burning off fuel first can reduce the pressure before you disconnect...

Dale

[Nejoum]

Thanks Dale.....
I always burn off after I turn off at the tank....Its just a pain to unscrew all the time.
I am sure a QC will be easer!
And yes....scared me half to death the first time I didn't burn off!!
Lost a few years with that one!
I will be sure to get one rated for high pressure.
Thanks!
Diana

[Tanya]

Great thread! I've been considering quick connects for my regulators. My torch, a mini cc, actually has brass fittings (it was an option to get it that way) so I don't have to deal with hose clamps anymore, but quick connects would be great for the other end.

[boroburner]

Western QC come in singles oxy or fuel but you may as well buy a set, itll cost almost the same amount. 72$Cad a pr up north here, I think its like 50$ for singles. Through Praxair.
B

[KLittle]

Bump :smile:

[Beadazoid]

THANK you! :) And it just occurred to me I don't have to buy short lengths of hoses, I can just cut off a foot or so of the ones I have right? And add the hardware? (yes, blonde) :lol:

[KLittle]

You got it! How cool is that?! \\:D/