October_2021 - 48

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:
Portasol
High Power
Adjustable 50-820W
Flame Power Torch
Reviewed by Randy Kaiser, technician/service and parts
manager at Rost Motor in Manson, Iowa.
THE REVIEW:
Q: How did the tool function as far
as saving you time?
A: This is a very handy tool to have. It's
small enough to fit into a toolbox drawer,
but it has the power and heat output of a
much larger torch. It also has an igniter
built in so you don't have to have anything
additional to light it.
Q: What kind of setup was involved
before using the product?
A: The only setup necessary was to
take it out of the package and fill it with
butane. Legally they cannot be shipped
with butane in them.
Q: How easy was it to use?
A: Very easy. You simply pull out the
safety lock button, push the gas valve in
part way to start the gas flow, and then
push the gas valve in the rest of the way to
ignite the flame. There is a knob on the
top of the torch to adjust the intensity of
the flame.
Q: Was there a manual included?
A: There was a manual included. I
looked at it briefly. It was easy to understand,
and did a good job of explaining the
operation of the torch.
Q: What features did you like?
A: It is a very handy size, especially for
the amount of heat that it puts out. It has
a decent size base so that it will stand up
very well. The gas valve locks on so that
you can use it one-handed or even just sitting
on the base. The flame control knob
is right on top, easy to get to and change.
Q: Is there any way you could think
to improve the tool?
A: It's pretty much a two-handed operation
to turn it off. You have to hold onto the
torch and pull the gas control valve out. It
would be nice if there was a way to shut it off
without having to use two hands.
Q: What types of jobs/repairs did
you use this tool for?
A: I used it for heating stuck and
rusted bolts and nuts and soldering
copper plumbing pipes.
I tried it for soldering wires and
heat shrink but it had a little too much heat
for the area I was working in.
Q: Have you used a previous version
of this tool?
A: I have used a micro torch and the
standard torch that screws onto a disposable
butane tank. This torch has more
heating power than the micro torch but is
a much handier size than the disposable
tank torch.
48 PTEN OCTOBER 2021 www.VehicleServicePros.com
The Portasol High Power Butane Torch, No.
HP820, offers a 2,797 BTU/h flame power (820 W
equivalent), and a welded stainless steel head. The
HP820 features an adjustable flame length of up to
4-1/2 " and a 45-minute run-time at mid setting. It
also features an all-in-one on/off Piezo ignition,
safety button and stand. It weighs 7 oz. and has a
flame temperature of up to 2,462 degrees F.
110
RANDY KAISER started working
at Rost Motor, Inc. shortly after
graduating high school, and he
is still working there 48 years
later. Through the years, he has
been a lube tech, line tech, paint
and body tech, parts department head, service
manager, and is currently in charge of the parts
and service departments. Kaiser is ASE Master
Certified and a Ford Master Certified Technician,
as well as a Ford Certified Service Manager and
Service Advisor.
http://www.VehicleServicePros.com
October_2021

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