KP1696-030S - Lincoln Electric KP1696-030S Drive Roll Kit - .023-.030 Solid Wire

Precision Wire Feeding for Solid Wire Applications

The Lincoln Electric KP1696-030S Drive Roll Kit is an essential maintenance component for professionals utilizing Lincoln 2-roll wire feed systems. Engineered specifically for solid mild steel and stainless steel wires ranging from .023 inches (0.6 mm) to .030 inches (0.8 mm), this kit ensures consistent wire delivery critical for high-quality MIG welding. The drive rolls feature a precision-machined V-groove profile. Unlike knurled rolls used for flux-cored wire, the V-groove design provides the necessary friction to push solid wire through the liner and gun cable without deforming the wire's cross-section or shaving off copper coating, which can lead to liner clogging.

This kit is designed for compatibility with specific Lincoln Electric equipment, including the LF-72 wire feeder and the Power MIG 215XT and 255XT welding machines. A key component of this kit is the included split wire guide. This guide is instrumental in bridging the gap between the drive rolls and the gun receiver bushing, significantly reducing the likelihood of "bird nesting"—a common issue where flexible wire tangles immediately after the drive rolls. By maintaining a straight and supported wire path, the KP1696-030S ensures smooth operation even during extended welding sessions.

Proper maintenance of the wire drive system is often overlooked but is vital for arc stability. Worn drive rolls can cause erratic feeding, burn-back, and arc stuttering. Replacing your old rolls with this genuine OEM kit restores the mechanical integrity of your feeder. The kit includes two drive rolls and the necessary inner wire guide, providing a complete solution for swapping out wire sizes or refreshing worn components. Trust in Lincoln Electric's engineering to keep your fabrication lines moving efficiently.