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Topic: Air Line Fittings - Compression vs Push to Fit (Read 2055 times) previous topic - next topic

Air Line Fittings - Compression vs Push to Fit

Is one type fitting better than the other (compression versus push to fit) or is it just preference or ease of installation?

I have some air leaks on my coach and most seem to be coming from the push to fit fittings. I have replaced some of the ptf fittings with compression fittings. My research on this subject has only come up with the cheaper push to fit fittings for ease of installation.

jack
Jack - Cynthia

Jan 2013
2003 U295 38'
3810 PBFS (6180)
2014 Jeep Sahara Unlimited

Re: Air Line Fittings - Compression vs Push to Fit

Reply #1 –
We had several new class 8 trucks that used push lock fittings, replaced most of them with compression fittings due to leaks. Not a fan of push locks.
Bruce, Linda, and Macy
Zoey RIP 1/20/19
1999 U295 40' build #5400
2017 silver Jeep Wrangler, 1260 watts of solar on top
Moving around the country

Re: Air Line Fittings - Compression vs Push to Fit

Reply #2 –
They keep trying to invent the wheel.
Peter and Frieda Morin
1999 36ft. U320 Foretravel
Build # 5436
1998 Suzuki Sidekick Sport

Re: Air Line Fittings - Compression vs Push to Fit

Reply #3 –
Any stress from bends near the fitting or even vibrations could cause the push fittings to leak.  Also over time the ends could get brittle and cause leaks.  I prefer the DOT compression fittings.  It is also possible to tighten the fitting if it leaks.  Not possible with push fit other than cutting the end or replacing the fitting.
Forest & Cindy Olivier
1987 log cabin
2011 Roadtrek C210P
no longer 1999 36' U320 build #5522
2013 Rzr 570 & 2018 Ranger XP1000
2006 Lexus GX470
2011 Tahoe LT 4x4
Previous 1998 45' 2 slide Newell, 1993 39' Newell

Re: Air Line Fittings - Compression vs Push to Fit

Reply #4 –
To get the reliability of compression fittings it's important to use DOT fittings that are made for the DOT tubing that is on our coaches.
Up until about a year ago I worked for a locomotive manufacture; they (and the industry a whole) do not allow push-to-fit fittings.

Here's an old post on the subject with details:  Pulling Wheel Well Fenders for Air Bag Installation
John Fitzgerald
1991 U300 (SAI) Side Aisle Island Bed 40'
Detroit 6V92 with Allison Retarder
Meridian (Boise), Idaho

Re: Air Line Fittings - Compression vs Push to Fit

Reply #5 –
I get my compression fittings from Freightliner.  They go in easily and I have had no leakers.  Have a great day  ----  Fritz
Fritz & Kathy Johnson
1991 36'

Re: Air Line Fittings - Compression vs Push to Fit

Reply #6 –

Thanks to all for your responses. Your Foretravel and work experience and opinions are so important.

jack
Jack - Cynthia

Jan 2013
2003 U295 38'
3810 PBFS (6180)
2014 Jeep Sahara Unlimited

Re: Air Line Fittings - Compression vs Push to Fit

Reply #7 –
Quote from: cynjac –
Is one type fitting better than the other (compression versus push to fit) or is it just preference or ease of installation?

 My research on this subject has only come up with the cheaper push to fit fittings for ease of installation.

jack

Push to connect fitting work great on the shop floor where air line changes need to be made on a regular basis.

You also wrote "cheaper push to fit fittings" so I think you answered your own question.  Use the compression fittings made for flexible tubing.
1992 Foretravel Grand Villa
U225 SBID Build No. 4134
1986 Rockwood Driftwood
1968 S.I.A.T.A. Spring
1962 Studebaker Lark
1986 Honda VF700C
1983 Honda VF750C
Charlie, the Dog was broken out of jail 24 Oct 2023
N1RPN
AA1OH (H)e who must be obeyed.

Re: Air Line Fittings - Compression vs Push to Fit

Reply #8 –
Grainger carries the Parker DOT fittings at a competitive price. Easy to pick up if you have one nearby or fast shipping.
Bruce & Linda
2004 U295, Build # 6268, ISL400 CAPS
2016 Ford Explorer Sport or 1985 Jeep CJ7

Re: Air Line Fittings - Compression vs Push to Fit

Reply #9 –
Compression is the way to go. Push fittings are great for assembly lines where ease of construction is desired.


Keith
The selected media item is not currently available.Keith & Jo
2003 U320T 4025 PBBS Designer series
Build 6203    Cummins 500hp
2000 U320 4010 WTFE / Build 5762 —Sold—
Motorcade #18070   
Pasadena, Texas
2015 Jeep Wrangler Sahara-Sunset Orange pearl coat
Don't argue with a fool, people watching might not be able to tell the difference.

Re: Air Line Fittings - Compression vs Push to Fit

Reply #10 –
I have never had a problem with "push" fittings and we use them on our Fire Trucks. But we purchase brass, heavy duty push fittings. Used mainly for gauges and other accessories that come off the secondary air tank. I find them much easier to use, especially when you are in hard to reach areas. Make sure you use a proper airline cutter - the push on's need a clean straight edge.

Pat