KP1696-2 - Lincoln .040 Solid Wire V-Groove Drive Roll Kit for LN-25/Power Feed

Precision V-Groove Performance for Solid Wire

Achieve superior arc stability and consistent wire delivery with the Lincoln Electric KP1696-2 Drive Roll Kit. This kit is specifically engineered for welders running .040-inch (1.0 mm) solid wire, such as ER70S-6 or stainless steel grades. The drive rolls feature a V-Groove geometry, which is the industry standard for solid wires. Unlike knurled rolls that dig into the wire, or U-groove rolls designed for soft aluminum, the V-Groove provides two points of contact that grip the hard solid wire firmly without deforming its cross-section. This ensures the wire remains round, promoting better electrical contact at the tip and reducing wear on the liner.

One of the standout features of this kit is the inclusion of a split wire guide. Bird nesting—where the wire tangles immediately after the drive rolls—is a common frustration that halts production and wastes wire. The split wire guide in the KP1696-2 kit is designed to support the wire as it leaves the rolls and enters the gun receiver, significantly reducing the unsupported length of wire where buckling can occur. This design is particularly beneficial when pushing wire through longer gun cables or when welding in out-of-position scenarios where the cable may be bent.

The KP1696-2 is built for Lincoln Electric's robust two-roll wire drive systems. It is a direct fit for the LN-25X, LN-25 PRO, Power Feed, and Active8X feeders. Installation is straightforward, allowing for quick setup changes on the job site. The kit includes two drive rolls and the inner wire guide, providing everything needed to convert your feeder for .040 solid wire applications. By using matched components, you ensure the alignment between the rolls and the guide is perfect, further enhancing feeding performance.

Whether you are fabricating structural steel or performing heavy equipment repair, the integrity of your wire feed system directly impacts weld quality. Slipping rolls can cause burn-back, while deformed wire can cause micro-arcing inside the contact tip. The Lincoln KP1696-2 eliminates these variables, giving professional welders the confidence that their machine will feed consistently, bead after bead.