I bought a new torch awhile back!

[grumpyvette]

http://www.weldingmart.com/Qstore/p001643.htm

well my old torch setup was a victor unit and like a fool I loaned it out,
I got it back in pieces with several missing, and the torch is TOTALLY $%^^&* up, so as its 34 years old and I just said screw it!,
I went down to the local miller dealer, asked about the best value in a torch combo for up to 3/8" steel and purchased the harris combo, I mostly use a torch for brazeing and finer metal work, as the TIG and MIGs in the shop do most of the heavier stuff. but youll be amazed at the number of jobs a decent oxy-acetolene torch set up gets used for, I know Id sure be lost without one in the shop! In fact I usually suggest a decent oxy-acetolene torch set up is one of the first welding equipment purchases

 

[grumpyvette]

theres few tools as versatile as a oxy/acetylene torch if you need a decent first welder, now I know most guys want to get a MIG welder or an ARC welder, because TANKS of oxygen or acetylene can be a P.I.T.A., expensive and in some places illegal to store in a residence, but a decent torch can do some amazing things once you develop the skills and knowledge to use its full potential,
BTW buy a MEDIUM capacity torch, with QUALITY gauges from a WELL KNOWN manufacturer like SMITH, or VICTOR, theres NOTHING on a car thicker than 1/2" thick steel to cut or weld so more capacity is wasted and the larger torches are harder to get into tight places

welding rods usually 36" long so 37" pipe with one end glued is not a bad idea

http://www.welders-direct.com/merchant2 ... =MB54A-510

http://www.cpocampbellhausfeld.com/weld ... xtagwt4000

http://www.welders-direct.com/merchant2 ... =0384-2500

http://www.welders-direct.com/merchant2 ... de=MD-510T