Weld Support Parts Blog

Tag: collet body

  • Weldmark 13N26 TIG Collet Body Review: .040″ Replacement Parts for #9, #20, and #25 TIG Torches

    If your TIG torch setup uses a #9, #20, or #25 style torch, the Weldmark 13N26 collet body is a small but important consumable to keep on hand. This 5-pack is made for .040″ tungsten setups and helps hold the collet and tungsten in the proper position during TIG welding.

    Weldmark TIG Collet Body #9, 20, 25 Torch Pk = 5 (13N26 - .040')
    Weldmark TIG Collet Body #9, 20, 25 Torch Pk = 5 (13N26 – .040″)
    • Weldmark by CK Worldwide
    • Used with #9, 20, and 25 Tig Torches
    Buy on Amazon

    Last update on 2026-05-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

    Key Takeaways

    • Fits #9, #20, and #25 TIG torch styles.
    • Made for .040″ tungsten setups.
    • Sold as a 5-pack.
    • Useful for shop inventory, repair kits, and TIG consumable drawers.
    • Verify torch compatibility before ordering.

    What This Product Is

    The Weldmark 13N26 is a TIG torch collet body. It threads into the front end of a compatible TIG torch and works with the collet, tungsten, cup, and back cap to hold the electrode securely.

    This part is listed for:

    ItemDetail
    ProductWeldmark TIG Collet Body
    Part Number13N26
    Tungsten Size.040″
    Torch Fitment#9, #20, #25
    Pack Size5
    ASINB071LQVCMK

    Best For

    This part is best for welders who already run #9, #20, or #25 TIG torches and need replacement front-end consumables.

    Common use cases:

    • TIG torch maintenance
    • Replacing worn collet bodies
    • Stocking consumables for a fab shop
    • Keeping spare TIG parts in a service kit
    • Supporting .040″ tungsten applications

    Pros and Cons

    Pros

    • Comes in a 5-pack
    • Common TIG consumable size
    • Fits popular #9, #20, and #25 torch styles
    • Small part that is easy to stock in bulk

    Cons

    • Only for .040″ tungsten
    • Not universal across all TIG torches
    • Specs should be verified against your torch setup before buying

    Compatibility Notes

    This listing indicates compatibility with #9, #20, and #25 TIG torches. Before ordering, confirm:

    • Your torch series
    • Tungsten diameter
    • Existing collet body part number
    • Cup and collet compatibility

    If you are switching tungsten sizes, you may also need matching collets and cups.

    Where to Buy

    Amazon option:

    Weldmark TIG Collet Body #9, 20, 25 Torch Pk = 5 (13N26 - .040')
    Weldmark TIG Collet Body #9, 20, 25 Torch Pk = 5 (13N26 – .040″)
    • Weldmark by CK Worldwide
    • Used with #9, 20, and 25 Tig Torches
    Buy on Amazon

    Last update on 2026-05-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

    Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Weld Support Parts may earn from qualifying purchases.

    Safety Notes

    TIG torch consumables are small parts, but they still affect weld quality and torch reliability. Always inspect your torch front end before welding.

    Basic checks:

    • Confirm all torch parts are tight before use.
    • Do not weld with damaged cups, collets, or collet bodies.
    • Wear proper welding PPE.
    • Use ANSI Z87.1-rated eye protection when grinding, cutting, or working near welding operations.
    • Follow your machine, torch, and tungsten manufacturer’s setup guidance.

    FAQ

    What torch does the Weldmark 13N26 fit?

    This listing identifies it for #9, #20, and #25 TIG torch styles.

    What tungsten size is this for?

    This version is for .040″ tungsten.

    Is this a single part or a pack?

    This listing is for a 5-pack.

    Will this fit every TIG torch?

    No. TIG torch parts are not universal. Verify your torch series and part number before ordering.

    What other parts may I need with it?

    Depending on your setup, you may also need matching collets, cups, back caps, and tungsten.

    Sources Checked

    • Uploaded Arc Weld / Amazon inventory export
    • Product title and ASIN from inventory file
    • Unknown specs not confirmed beyond uploaded product data

  • TIG Gas Lens Compatibility Guide: 45V26 Gas Lens for WP-17, WP-18, and WP-26 Torches

    Why this matters

    If your TIG arc is wandering, the tungsten is overheating, or shielding gas coverage is inconsistent, the gas lens setup may be the problem. A correct gas lens collet body helps smooth gas flow and improves shielding around the tungsten.

    If you are setting up a WP-17, WP-18, or WP-26 style torch, the 45V26 family is a common front-end consumable to verify first. This guide is about fitment, not guesswork. Check the torch body, tungsten size, and cup setup before ordering.

    When to replace or upgrade the front end

    • Arc starts feel unstable
    • Gas coverage looks uneven
    • Tungsten contamination happens often
    • The collet body is worn, pitted, or damaged
    • You need a setup matched to a standard TIG torch body

    Compatibility table

    Part typePart numberCompatible modelsVerifiedNotesUse cases
    Gas lens collet body45V26WP-17, WP-18, WP-26Verified on Amazon listing3/32″ size listed; confirm tungsten diameter before orderingGeneral TIG front-end setup
    Gas lens body45V2617/18/26-style TIG torchesVerified on Amazon listingCheck cup and collet compatibility before installMild steel, stainless, aluminum TIG work

    Copy table

    AAWP box: 

    STARTECHWELD 45V26 TIG Gas Lens 3/32” Gas Lens collet body Fit TIG WP17, WP18, WP26 (5 Pack) 45V26
    STARTECHWELD 45V26 TIG Gas Lens 3/32” Gas Lens collet body Fit TIG WP17, WP18, WP26 (5 Pack) 45V26
    • TIG Gas Lens 45V26 Tig Torch Gas Lens 3/32”
    • Work With: TIG 17, 18, 26 Series Torches
    • 3/32″ Tungsten Electrodes Standard 10N Series Collet
    • 54N Series Gas Lens Ceramic Cups Setup
    • Pack of 5
    Buy on Amazon

    Last update on 2026-05-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

    What to verify before you buy

    • Torch model: WP-17, WP-18, or WP-26
    • Tungsten diameter: match the 3/32″ size if that is your setup
    • Cup size: confirm your cup and back cap arrangement
    • Collet body thread and front-end style: match the torch family, not just the size

    Recommended use case

    Choose this setup if you want a standard TIG consumable path for a common 17/18/26-series torch and you need a verified 45V26 replacement path.

    Safety note

    Disconnect power before changing TIG consumables. Verify torch and consumable fitment against the manufacturer documentation before use. For procedure-controlled welding, follow the applicable welding code and work instructions.

  • TIG Torch Slipping Tungsten? Your Collet Body Is Worn (Here’s the Fix)

    Intro

    You’re TIG welding and the tungsten keeps slipping out of the collet. You tighten the back cap, it holds for a few seconds, then slides again. The arc starts inconsistent, the puddle wanders, and your bead looks rough. The problem isn’t the tungsten—it’s a worn collet body that can’t grip anymore.

    Key Takeaways

    • Tungsten slipping is almost always caused by a worn or damaged collet body, not the tungsten itself
    • A collet body wears from repeated insertion and removal of tungsten
    • Replacement collet bodies are cheap ($5–$15) and take 30 seconds to swap
    • Gas coverage improves dramatically with a fresh collet body
    • Keep spares on hand for every torch size you use

    The Problem

    A worn collet body shows up as:

    • Tungsten slides out even when the back cap is tight
    • Inconsistent arc initiation
    • Poor gas coverage (visible oxidation on the weld)
    • Difficulty maintaining arc length
    • Collet body threads are stripped or loose

    The collet is a small tapered sleeve that grips the tungsten. Every time you insert or remove tungsten, the collet compresses and expands. Over hundreds of cycles, the taper wears out. The grip weakens. Eventually, no amount of back cap tightening will hold the tungsten in place.

    Why It Matters

    A slipping tungsten means an unstable arc. Your puddle control suffers. Weld quality drops. On precision work (aerospace, stainless, thin-wall), a wandering arc is a reject. On production runs, it’s rework and lost time. Plus, a loose tungsten can break mid-weld and contaminate your shielding gas.

    The Fix

    1. Disconnect the torch and let it cool. Safety first.
    1. Unscrew the back cap and remove the old collet body.
    1. Inspect the threads. If they’re stripped, you may need a new torch head (rare).
    1. Install the new collet body. Slide it in and hand-tighten the back cap.
    1. Insert tungsten and tighten firmly. The tungsten should not move when you pull on it.
    1. Test the arc. You should see immediate improvement in arc stability and gas coverage.

    Why This Product Solves It

    The TIG Gas Lens Collet Body #17, 18, 26 Torch 2PK (45V27-1/8″) is a direct replacement for standard TIG torches and includes a gas lens design that improves shielding gas flow. The tapered bore is precision-machined to grip tungsten consistently, and the gas lens allows larger tungsten stick-out for better visibility and control. Two-pack means you have a spare.

    Product Link:  Product not found.

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    What to Check Before You Buy

    • Torch series: This fits #17, #18, and #26 torches (most common sizes)
    • Tungsten size: This collet is sized for 1/8″ (3.2mm) tungsten
    • Gas lens compatibility: Confirm your torch head accepts a gas lens (most do)
    • Thread type: Standard collet body threads (verify if you have an older torch)

    Real-World Use

    A TIG fabricator working on stainless tubing noticed poor gas coverage and arc wander. Swapped the collet body. Tungsten stayed put, arc was stable, and the bead came out clean. One collet body lasted 18 months before needing replacement.

    Common Mistakes

    • Tightening the back cap excessively (damages the new collet body)
    • Using the wrong collet size for your tungsten diameter (loose fit)
    • Not replacing the collet body when it’s visibly worn (keeps struggling with slipping)
    • Forgetting to clean the collet body threads before installation (cross-threading)
    • Buying a single collet body instead of keeping spares (downtime when it fails)

    Safety Notes

    Always let the torch cool before handling. Collet bodies get hot during welding. Wear gloves when removing hot components. If tungsten slips during welding, stop immediately—a loose electrode can break and contaminate your argon supply.

    Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and your shop’s safety procedures. If you’re unsure about fitment or ratings, verify before you buy or install.

    Related Reading

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