Powerpro 256s not cutting

My plasma torch was obviously used before it was sent to me. The consumable has been burned. When I tried to hook up the plasma cutter and operate it, I noticed: 1. the torch lead has an extra red wire that I can't find any info on, and it doesn't have an obvious place to hook up. 2. the torch will not fire unless I touch it to the metal directly. Pressing the trigger does nothing, but releasing it gives a short blast of air. It's basically a scratch start plasma cutter? The stand off will not allow contact, so it had to be removed to work at all. What gives? I'm showing the pic so you can see the mysterious red wire.

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Originally Posted by Bluediemond

My plasma torch was obviously used before it was sent to me. The consumable has been burned. When I tried to hook up the plasma cutter and operate it, I noticed: 1. the torch lead has an extra red wire that I can't find any info on, and it doesn't have an obvious place to hook up. 2. the torch will not fire unless I touch it to the metal directly. Pressing the trigger does nothing, but releasing it gives a short blast of air. It's basically a scratch start plasma cutter? The stand off will not allow contact, so it had to be removed to work at all. What gives? I'm showing the pic so you can see the mysterious red wire.

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Remain calm :)
It attaches to the pilot arc post on the front of the machine... loosen the black plastic cap. The machines are tested before shipping.

Reading the manual first too would likely help calm your fears and give greater understanding. http://www.everlastgenerators.com/si...ies%202013.pdf
There is a black plastic coated thumb screw which says pilot that is sticking out the front of your unit which is the pilot arc.
Also all torches are tested before leaving the factory. The torch isn't used if that is what you were thinking.

If you have a true 256S then that torch should be an S75, not an A81. Check the handle to confirm as it says what it is on the side.

I'm a bit concerned about dropping that much cash on something I can't afford. Sorry if I seem a little anxious.

You're right, the terminal is right there for the red wire. I hooked up the machine in very low light last night and totally overlooked it. Thanks for the response.

As far as the torch being tested, the tip looked to be extremely well tested. Not simply turned on for a moment and then packed up. Works perfectly now however, thanks again.

Some consumables look a little rougher than others. My P80, that I prefer over my A81, the tips look really bad just with one fire, but it cuts like a dream until they are done.

Also, make sure you have very dry air, it will make the consumables last a lot longer and the cuts will be nice.

Glad all is good and you got it figured out.

They don't just test fire them, they cut plate with them...some a little more than others, but each one cuts a couple feet or two by hand.

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Originally Posted by performance

Reading the manual first too would likely help calm your fears and give greater understanding. http://www.everlastgenerators.com/si...ies%202013.pdf

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Wished the manual that came with mine looked like the one you linked. It WOULD have made it a little easier. It did come with the S75 torch tho.

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