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Topic: Push-to-connect Air Fittings (Read 551 times) previous topic - next topic

Push-to-connect Air Fittings

Has anyone used these on their air system? I am planning to use them on the step cover and drop down step connections instead of compression fittings. Parker says their fittings meet DOT and SAE specs.

Re: Push-to-connect Air Fittings

Reply #1 –

I used them when rebuilding my 6-pack manifolds.  Very easy to insert and remove (if necessary) the air line tubing.  I suggest getting the proper tool for cutting a clean square no-burr end on tubing.  I use push connect fittings (air system and plumbing) whenever possible.

Parker Hannifin PTC-001 Plastic Tube Cutter: Industrial Tube Fittings:...

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1993 U280 SE 40' WTBI, Build: 4359
C8.3 300hp, 6-Speed, Exhaust Brake
960 watts on the roof (6 x 160)
Sorento (or BOLT) on a Kar Kaddy SS
"Nature abhors a vacuum"

Re: Push-to-connect Air Fittings

Reply #2 –
Have a cigar cutter,will try that.
96 U270 BUILD 4810
85 380SL
Drummonds TN.

Re: Push-to-connect Air Fittings

Reply #3 –
I ordered this one. I tried a small copper tubing cutter and it worked, but it compressed the nylon tubing while cutting and was a bit awkward.

Re: Push-to-connect Air Fittings

Reply #4 –
Having used hundreds of compression and push-in tube fittings, I can say both styles are reliable. I've only seen one failure and that was a metal/plastic 90 degree swivel elbow used for the air supply on a Horton clutch fan on a fire apparatus. The failure was the 90 degree plastic portion separating from the brass pipe thread portion, probably a result of heat and vibration; or maybe a ham fisted mechanic. This was a push-in type and the fitting did not release the tube. I replaced the broken fitting with an all metal one.

As mentioned above, getting a clean square cut on the tubing is important with push-in fittings due to the seal being made by an o-ring, just behind the "gripper".

Also, best to use all DOT approved fittings (and tube) on any lines supplied by the system that supports the brakes and air suspension.
Greg & Cathy
2000 U320 4010 DGFE Build #5650
Had: 1999 Tradewinds 7370

Re: Push-to-connect Air Fittings

Reply #5 –
Chuck,I know the tubing size is 3/8 but are your straight fittings 1/8 npt?
96 U270 BUILD 4810
85 380SL
Drummonds TN.

Re: Push-to-connect Air Fittings

Reply #6 –
My '03 is full of push-to-connect air fittings and fuel line fittings.

Re: Push-to-connect Air Fittings

Reply #7 –

I have used these cutters for plastic tubing push connectors for years with no problems.

Craftsman 9-37304 Handi Cut Set, 2-Piece - Craftsman Tools - Amazon.com

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1999 40 ft. U-320 wtfe build 5563 Chuck & Lynda's "Rollin' Inn"  2030 watts solar
prev. mh's 71 GMC 5 yrs. 73 Pace Setter 1 yr. 78 Vogue 5 yrs 81 FTX 40ft all electric 18 yrs. 1996 Monaco Signature 3 yrs.
2014 Grand Cherokee Overland
Dream as if you will live forever. Live as if you will die today.  James Dean
 

Re: Push-to-connect Air Fittings

Reply #8 –
Quote from: John44 –
Chuck,I know the tubing size is 3/8 but are your straight fittings 1/8 npt?
If you asking about the air line fittings I used on my front 6-pack, there are six 3/8" tube x 1/8" NPT and one 3/8" tube x 1/4" NPT.  Link below to complete parts list for my (front) 6-pack rebuild.  The rear manifold uses the same air fittings but only a single 85 psi pressure switch.

Working On My Six Pack
1993 U280 SE 40' WTBI, Build: 4359
C8.3 300hp, 6-Speed, Exhaust Brake
960 watts on the roof (6 x 160)
Sorento (or BOLT) on a Kar Kaddy SS
"Nature abhors a vacuum"