First time user on a larger project with warm fuzzies :)
April 29, 2019
After much communication and procrastination, I ordered the Cutmaster 58 and FedEx delivered as advertised. After studying the manual, I set up and turned loose on a long-planned diet of metal removal on my 45 Studebaker US6.
I noted right away a Pilot, then MAIN arc is the sequence, and I am here to say this technology is just amazing. Gawd! I was cutting 1/2 steel that was WELL welded on DECADES ago. While I'm still learning, I found a 40A setting worked WELL. Worthy of note: the tool will reflect any wiggle/unsteadiness in the cut product; as long as you're steady-handed, cuts are perfect. I still have gouge cutting to do, but I am well on my way here..
Observations: I do need to add IF you touch the surface you're cutting a minuscule deposit will stick to the copper tip and directly interfere with straight-clean thru cuts. So MAINTAIN a GAP from the surface being cut. I picked up more electrodes and tips today so I can continue. Also on initial start, the unit mimics a battery charger... then spools up to replicate the sound of an older welder as it decimates anything in its path. Accolades: The air/purge does is a good idea. The torch is COMFY to hold, the Manual is priceless; well-written and very useful. I'd recommend to acquire some sort of wheeled stand to move this dude around a shop.
So, WELL DONE ESAB and a special Thank You to Amber @ CyberWeld!
ProsLightweight. Durable frame protecting the unit. Generous, GOOD quality cables! Not cheap plastic! This is a CRAFTSMAN's tool... not a cheap attempt; one of those GOOOOOD ones. Thermal Arc DOES answer their phones! Large Plus!
ConsThere is a learning curve. Read and understand the manual. Call Thermal Arc!
