MAPP gas torches
MAPP gas is like plain propane’s aggressive older brother. MAPP bottles hold a blend of fuels for a hotter flame than plain propane.
Note: If somebody tells you “They don’t make MAPP gas anymore”, here’s the deal. The original MAPP gas blend (methylacetylene, propadiene and propane) is no longer bottled in the United States. New bottles contain substitutes, and they are not as powerful as the original MAPP formulation.
MAPP tanks and torch heads are available at most hardware stores, usually right next to the propane selection, but a little MAPP torch produces decent heat for its size. MAPP fuel costs more than propane, but the power is a bit more useful for auto repair jobs. For example, MAPP is better than propane for heating stuck fasteners. In fact, MAPP is hot enough that it can be used for soldering, brazing, and light welding on thin metal, although not often in the auto repair industry. Lightweight and compact, sheer portability is one of MAPP’s biggest advantages. As for disadvantages, you can’t cut with MAPP. It is limited to heating small areas.
You should also know that standard propane torches are not meant to be used with MAPP fuel. Per Bernzomatic, using MAPP in a torch designed for propane can cause premature wear (and void your warranty). Some MAPP torches can use propane, though. Just make sure yours is “dual fuel” approved before threading a MAPP torch onto a propane tank.