57Y04 - Weldcraft 57Y04 Short Back Cap for 17/18/26 Series Torches (2-Pack)

Compact TIG Welding Solution for Confined Spaces

The Weldcraft 57Y04 Short Back Cap is an essential accessory for TIG welders operating in restricted environments. Designed specifically for the industry-standard 17, 18, and 26 series TIG torches, this component replaces the standard long back cap, significantly reducing the overall length of the torch assembly. This modification is crucial when welding inside pipes, roll cages, manifolds, or complex machinery where clearance is minimal. By swapping to a short back cap, operators gain the maneuverability needed to maintain proper torch angle and arc distance in hard-to-reach areas.

Manufactured to Weldcraft's rigorous standards, these back caps are constructed from high-impact, heat-resistant polymers that withstand the thermal stresses of continuous welding. The threaded connection is precision-molded to ensure a smooth fit into the torch body, preventing the cross-threading issues common with inferior generic parts. Each cap comes pre-installed with a durable O-ring that creates a positive, gas-tight seal. This seal is vital for preventing atmospheric contamination of the shielding gas, which can lead to porosity and weld defects. The reliability of the seal ensures that your argon flow remains pure from the cylinder to the weld pool.

One operational consideration when using the 57Y04 Short Back Cap is the length of the tungsten electrode. Unlike long caps that accommodate full-length 7-inch electrodes, the short profile requires the use of shorter tungsten segments or "stubs." This makes the short cap an excellent way to utilize the remaining length of tungsten electrodes that have become too short for standard caps, thereby reducing waste and maximizing consumable value. Sold in a convenient package of two, this product ensures you always have a spare on hand for critical jobs.

Whether you are a professional pipe welder, a motorsports fabricator, or a maintenance technician, the Weldcraft Short Back Cap is a low-cost problem solver that enhances the versatility of your existing TIG equipment. It fits a wide range of torch models including the WP-17, WP-17V, WP-18, WP-18V, WP-26, and WP-26V, as well as compatible models from other major brands.