Sticky cutting attachment

[Chris Bar]

Have a CA1260 cutting attachment for my Victor J100 torch handle. The spring return lever which operates the O2 valve has a tendency to close slowly now, perhaps due to many years of intermittent use, or maybe just age.

Before (and if I decide to really do it) I open and attempt to clean, any suggestions to recover the faster closure time. Have been regularly using for a week or so, and the problem has not rectified itself. Not a real problem but more of a nuisance. For obvious reasons I cannot just lubricate as would be done for regular mechanical items, but I am also reluctant to open since it does work now (before I fix it :D). Perhaps if Victor is still a reliable company they could clean or is the typical LWS in the repair business as well.

Thanks for your help.
Chris

[Bob]

Most LWS have a service for torches.

[OAdoctor]

All most all LWS send torches and regulators to a gas apparatus repair shop. The spring may have become weak but it more likely a problem with valve seat. One other thing it could be the lever and pin is binding. Does the valve leak O2? You can take the pin out and see if the lever still closes slowly.
Victor does have a repair kit for the CA1260 cutting valve. The part number is #0390-0016 and sells for $9.95. You should be able to get your Cutting Attachment totally rebuilt at your LWS for $50.00.

Hope this helps.

[Chris Bar]

Think I will take it in and have them do it, if I try and don't succeed; should still be same price to fix (hope). Could save quite a few dollars. If used in a business would not think of doing myself, but there is no income from home hobby stuff.

Don't think any parts are bent since it has been handled with kid gloves since new.
I expect the LWS will have the kits or can order, or might even try calling Victor. My experience has been that similar companies do not sell directly to the public.

Thanks for the help.