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A. The Draper 98451 fits 1.6mm tungsten electrodes. Collets and collet bodies are size-specific — you must use the 1.6mm collet body with 1.6mm tungsten. Using a mismatched size prevents correct tungsten clamping and causes arc instability.
A. The collet is the split-ring component that grips the tungsten electrode. The collet body (also called torch body or gas lens body) holds the collet and forms the gas passage. Both must match the tungsten diameter. When replacing, ensure collet, collet body, and tungsten all match in size.
A. The Draper 98451 uses the standard torch fitting, compatible with SR9/SR17 or SR26 series TIG torches. Check the part number prefix against your torch specification to confirm compatibility.
A. Replace the collet when: the tungsten slips or cannot be tightened securely, the collet is visibly cracked or corroded, or the arc becomes unstable despite a correctly prepared tungsten tip. A worn collet fails to make a reliable electrical connection to the tungsten.
A. It is good practice to replace both at the same time when one shows wear — the two components mate together and uneven wear between them reduces clamping quality. The cost of a collet set is low relative to the benefit of reliable tungsten clamping.
A. Tungsten diameter affects the collet and collet body size, which in turn affects the gas passage inside the torch body. For improved gas coverage on critical welds, a gas lens collet body provides more even laminar flow — available for most torch series.
A. A collet that is too large for the tungsten allows it to slip during welding, causing arc wander and tungsten contamination. A collet that is too small will not accept the tungsten at all. Always match collet size exactly to tungsten diameter.
A. Remove the back cap and pull out the old tungsten and collet. Unscrew the collet body from the torch head. Fit the new Draper 98451, then fit the new collet, insert the tungsten to the correct extension (typically 2–4mm for most work), and tighten the back cap to grip the tungsten securely.
A. MIG tips and nozzles are torch-specific. Check your machine's torch type — common types include MB14, MB15, MB25, and MB36. The contact tip thread size must match your torch body. The tip bore size must match your wire diameter. Using the wrong tip or nozzle will cause poor wire feed and inconsistent welds.
A. Yes — UK stocked for fast despatch. Check availability at PartsForMachines.com. Orders placed before the daily cut-off are dispatched same or next working day. Check the product page for current delivery estimates.
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