How would you identify an older vs newer HH?

[EaglesLegacy]

Any identifying parts to know if I have an older style or the newer one? I bought it used. The torch says ***593-2001***

[AddShoe]

I believe most of the new HHs cannot be taken apart. The torch I use, that I consider a HH, has a plastic "base" even. I could be way off, but I have heard this to be a difference between the ages.

[Dale M.]

HOTHEAD is a brand name.....

Any other torch (with plastic base) is a fuel/air torch with its own brand name....

10149

This is only torch that is a Hot Head by "brand name"....

HH in picture is old model and has no markings of any kind.

If you go to this site and look at torch break down and if it has a orifice as pictured at this site it is a "old" model HH...

http://www.cauldroncreations.com/hotheadinfo.html

Dale

[EaglesLegacy]

Mine's an old HH! That makes me happy. :happy: Thank you sooo much for that clear as mud tut on taking it apart.

[EaglesLegacy]

Another couple of questions about your tut...It says to soak the orfice overnight in paint thinner, acetone, nail polish remover or other non-oily solvent. So do you rinse those flammables off with water or do they just burn off?

Also, how do you check the HH for leaks?

[Dale M.]

Dry with cloths or paper towel, "blow dry" and reassemble.....

To check for leaks while torch is operational, spray little soapy water at base of torch head, where stem screws into base and around base of knob and look for bubbles....

Dale

[EaglesLegacy]

Great, thanks Dale!

[Ancasta]

I have the new style HH torch with the shorter neck. Does this mean I simply cannot clean it at all as it doesnt come apart?

[lunamoonshadow]

I believe most of the new HHs cannot be taken apart. The torch I use, that I consider a HH, has a plastic "base" even. I could be way off, but I have heard this to be a difference between the ages.

I'm guessing you may have a fireworks brand torch. Most find them totally unsatisfactory after a few uses.

[EaglesLegacy]

Oh my goodness! Dale, I am so sorry. I just re-read my post Thank you sooo much for that clear as mud tut on taking it apart. and I don't know what was on my mind. I think I meant to say clear as a bell, and used the wrong cliche.#-o I meant a compliment, but instead insulted you. :wtf: Mud is not clear, but this tut was crystal clear. I should learn to re-read my posts before submitting. Your tut is awesome!

[Dale M.]

Not a problem....

Dale

[Tillie]

I have a question about the HH and fuel supplies. Can a HH be used with Natural Gas? Will the NG supply a hot enough flame? I've been on bulk propane, but recently the propane supply has been "dirty" and I'm ruining beads right and left. I have a MAPP cannister on right now, and it's fine, but it will run out soon. I have a NG line already run into my studio and it would not be any problem to run the extra line over to my torch setup. Also, if it will work, do I need a special hose connection? I'm sure hoping it will work because this would make it sooo convenient! Thanks for any help.

Tillie

[EaglesLegacy]

Tillie, the answer is no, as explained here...http://lampworketc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=38183&highlight=hothead+natural+gas

[ginagreenlee]

I'm pretty new to torching. I have recently switched from 1 lb MAPP canisters to a 7.5 lb propylene tank. I'm pretty happy with it.

[Tillie]

Thanks Cindy. Well, back to the drawing board. After the bad tank of Propane, and seeing that I can't use NG (my husband told me the same thing, but I thought..what does he know), I'm thinking about contacting the local welding supply place and seeing if they carry the Propylene bulk tanks. I think that's what I'll probably do tomorrow. I've got a MAPP canister on right now, but it'll run out in a day or so, and then I'll be up the creek. Thanks again.

[NLC Beads]

I use bulk propane with my Hot Head. Try not turning the flame up as high, and work higher in the flame until you get used to it... Good luck!