KP1985-1 - Lincoln Electric KP1985-1 Outgoing Guide Tube for 3/32-3/16 Inch Wire

Optimize Wire Feeding with the Lincoln KP1985-1

In heavy industrial welding, the consistency of your wire feed system can make or break weld quality. The Lincoln Electric KP1985-1 Outgoing Guide Tube is the unsung hero of your wire drive assembly, specifically engineered to handle the demands of large diameter wires between 3/32 inch and 3/16 inch. When running thick wires for structural steel, heavy equipment repair, or shipbuilding, the mechanical stress on feed components is significant. This guide tube provides the necessary support to ensure the wire exits the drive rolls cleanly and enters the liner without kinking or wandering.

Wire feeding issues are often misdiagnosed as liner or gun problems, when in reality, a worn outgoing guide tube is the culprit. Over time, the abrasive nature of welding wire cuts keyhole slots into the guide, causing increased friction and erratic feeding speeds. This can lead to burn-back, unstable arcs, and frustration for the welder. The KP1985-1 is manufactured from hardened materials to resist this wear, maintaining a precise internal diameter that guides the wire perfectly centered into the conduit. This is especially critical when using cored wires, which can be crushed or deformed if not guided correctly.

Designed for the outgoing side of the feeder, this component bridges the gap between the drive rolls and the gun connection. Its wide compatibility range (2.4 mm to 4.8 mm) makes it a versatile spare part for shops running multiple wire sizes. Whether you are pushing solid mild steel wire or running heavy flux-cored electrodes, this guide tube ensures that the power of your feeder translates directly to the weld puddle. Don't let a small component compromise your productivity; ensure your Lincoln feeder is equipped with the correct, high-quality guide tubes.

Replacing your guide tubes is a quick maintenance task that pays dividends in uptime. If you notice metal shavings accumulating near your drive rolls or experience "chatter" in the wire feed, check your KP1985-1 for wear. Keeping a spare in your maintenance kit ensures you are always ready to tackle heavy-duty welding projects with confidence and precision.