KP1697-045C - Lincoln Electric KP1697-045C .045 Knurled Drive Roll Kit for Cored Wire

Genuine Lincoln KP1697-045C .045" Knurled Drive Roll Kit

Upgrade your wire feeding performance with the Lincoln Electric KP1697-045C Drive Roll Kit, specifically designed for welders running .040" to .045" flux-cored or metal-cored wires. If you are experiencing slipping wire or inconsistent feeding when running cored products, switching to the correct drive roll geometry is the most effective solution. This kit replaces standard smooth rolls with knurled rolls that feature small teeth in the groove, designed to grab the wire shell securely without flattening it.

Feeding cored wire presents unique challenges compared to solid wire. Because the wire is tubular and filled with flux or metal powder, it is more susceptible to crushing under the pressure of the tension arm. The knurled design of the KP1697-045C allows you to back off the tension while still achieving positive forward force. This results in smoother feeding, fewer burn-backs, and a more stable arc. Whether you are working on a construction site with an LN-25 suitcase feeder or in the shop with a Power MIG, this kit ensures your equipment operates at peak efficiency.

The kit comes complete with everything needed to update your 2-roll drive system: two matching knurled drive rolls and a specific split wire guide. The split wire guide is a crucial addition that aligns the wire perfectly from the rolls to the gun bushing. By fully supporting the wire path, it virtually eliminates the frustration of bird nesting, saving you time and wasted wire. Installation is quick and tool-free on most compatible Lincoln machines, allowing you to switch between wire types and sizes with minimal downtime.

Benefits of Knurled Rolls:

• Positive Grip: Teeth bite into the wire for slip-free feeding.
• Reduced Pressure: Requires less tension, preventing wire deformation.
• Consistent Speed: Ensures stable amperage and arc characteristics.
• Complete Solution: Includes the necessary guide tube for optimal alignment.