Track Burners

[Stick-man]

Looking for experienced opinions on track burners. I am currently looking to bevel steel for test practice, but also for future long, straight cuts. Looking to use oxy/propane, but would also like to be able to clamp a plasma torch on it.

I see the cheap-o's on evilbay, and usually I like to buy name brand, professional equipment. However, this I can't foresee being used very often. Does anyone have any experience with the cheap-o's?

Does anyone know of a good used unit for sale?

[Welder Dave]

I would worry about parts support from a no name machine. Maybe a rental place like Red-D-Arc would have used track cutters possibly with a warranty? If you didn't need plasma capable could go with a Koike IK-12 Beetle but if you wanted plasma capable would need to go with an IK-12 Next. Koike bought the rights to the Airco Radiagraphs that were the best machines on the market for 65 years but discontinued them several years ago to sell their own machines. Edmonton Exchanger used to have about 40 of the Airco 10B's but when they were no longer available went with Koike machines. You want one that can also do circles. The Victor track cutters are too big and bulky. The Fastenal price looks good if it's current. The IK-12 Next is about another $1000 or so. Depending on bevel angle may need an adapter so the tip can be swiveled more.

https://www.koike.com/documents/Prod...GA_ENG_WEB.pdf

https://www.fastenal.com/products/details/0828271

https://www.koike.com/documents/Prod...GA_ENG_WEB.pdf

https://www.koike.com/documents/Pric...s%205_1_20.pdf

[Ky farmer]

Where are you located? I have on with 12 or 15 feet of track, not sure of brand worked the last time i used it, which has been several years. Never needed it since i built my plasma table.
This thing is cast iron body and heavy, has a circle cutting attachment for large circles.
Let me know if this is of interest.

[welding1]

Never used a cheap track burner, but if it makes you money buy the best! it only hurts once.