I am adept at plumbing with copper pipe. We're re-doing a bath and for the
flexibility I'd like to use pex for a portion of the hot/cold water runs
this time. I can borrow (no fee) a pex crimping tool from the local
plumbing supplier but I think I want to buy a crimping tool for the
convenience on this and future jobs. I see a tool in my store called
Surlock. Is anyone familiar with this crimper and crimping system (which is
different from the standard pex compression ring system)?

Another question: the copper lines that will feed my new pex runs are half
inch. I notice that the so-called 'half inch' pex fittings (e.g., elbows)
are really not half-inch inner diameter but _much_ smaller. Wouldn't using
such a fitting simply mean I would not really have a half-inch line (but one
much smaller)? If this is correct reasoning then I reckon I should use 3/4
inch pex line.

Thanks in advance,
David Todtman

David Todtman wrote:
....

Another question: the copper lines that will feed my new pex runs are half
inch. I notice that the so-called 'half inch' pex fittings (e.g., elbows)
are really not half-inch inner diameter but _much_ smaller. Wouldn't using
such a fitting simply mean I would not really have a half-inch line (but one
much smaller)? If this is correct reasoning then I reckon I should use 3/4
inch pex line.
....

There are at least two ASTM Standards for PEX, one for plumbing and
another for tubing and a zillion sizes of PEX as well as wall
thicknesses, etc.

I've never used the stuff but I'm sure there are sizes available that
will match ID/flow capacity of nominal Cu pretty closely, but whether
those are the most common in your local distributor's stock or the most
prevalent sizes used in general I don't know.

The one thing I do know is that the tool and fittings have to be
specifically made for the diameter(s) used and that the cutting and prep
of the ends is as critical as the crimp for a trouble- and leak-free joint.

While it's the coming rage, there's much to commend traditional Cu
except for price, unfortunately, imo...

--

On Fri, 03 Aug 2007 18:02:38 GMT, "David Todtman"
wrote:

I am adept at plumbing with copper pipe. We're re-doing a bath and for the
flexibility I'd like to use pex for a portion of the hot/cold water runs
this time. I can borrow (no fee) a pex crimping tool from the local
plumbing supplier but I think I want to buy a crimping tool for the
convenience on this and future jobs. I see a tool in my store called
Surlock. Is anyone familiar with this crimper and crimping system (which is
different from the standard pex compression ring system)?

Not familiar with that brand crimper. Mine are Crimpmaster. I bought a
house with PEX and did a full bath remodel. This was the reason I
bought the tools; instead of renting for the day. I have a 3/8" and
1/2" crimper- they were out of the 1/2' - 5/8" combo crimper.. The
1/2" can also be purchased in a combination of 5/8" (or 3/4' forget
right now). Online or local supply house rental required a full cost
deposit, plus $25.00 per day rental. I bought the tools to keep;
mainly, because of the 40 mile round trip to rent. They sit here with
no use (BG), but I saved two lines for an outdoor shower

Another question: the copper lines that will feed my new pex runs are half
inch. I notice that the so-called 'half inch' pex fittings (e.g., elbows)
are really not half-inch inner diameter but _much_ smaller. Wouldn't using
such a fitting simply mean I would not really have a half-inch line (but one
much smaller)? If this is correct reasoning then I reckon I should use 3/4
inch pex line.

1/2" to shower and tub. 3/8' ID is okay for a toilet and sink. Pick
the size you have now....

(now I have to check mine :-))
--
Oren

"The voices in my head may not be real, but they have some good ideas!"