[Gordo2]

Just like we say in the DOD acquisition business: cheap, fast or good - pick any two.

Replaced the hoses today. No joy, the acetylene side still doesn't hold pressure.

The low pressure side should hold pressure for some amount of time after I shut off the acetylene tank valve (with the torch handle valve off). Right now, it drops to zero as soon as the tank valve is turned off. The torch handle ace valve seems to work properly: I can't light the acetylene without opening the valve.

At this point I'm pretty sure the regulator seals/diaphragm are toast. I opened up the the reg; it appears the previous owner was a flashback survivor. Inside of the reg is covered with soot/carbon deposits.

Will order a set of flashback arrestors along with the reg rebuild parts (assuming I can find the parts).

Thanks again for the tips and support,

Gordo