Dan Seaver

Are your torch hoses grade R or grade T? You need grade T for propane since propane corrodes grade R hoses.

The only way to get dies for a Fairbanks E is to have them custom made and its not cheap since they are so big. The quotes I've gotten were $800-$2000 for a pair. If you want I can get die measurements on the my hammers dies. I don't remember the dovetail measurements but the metal block needed for each is 6"x8"x4" (or maybe 4.5", not sure.) Heck I can even make a CAD drawing for you with all the measurements.

Kinetic energy can be used to test the power of a hammer but is useless to test the energy transferred to the work piece. Its just like shooting a heavy bullet compared to a light bullet; although the light bullet will have a faster FPS it will do less damage because the mass is less therefor it is easier to be deflected. Same idea with a hammer, 25lb will basically bounce off a piece of metal that a 200lb hammer would transfer a large amount of energy to. I'll test my Fairbanks E (150lb) on Monday when I install the new motor. Should be interesting to see how it stacks up.