Plumbing 101: Part 6

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Over the past five issues of this series, we took a detailed look at AN hose and fittings. In the last issue, we began assembling Earl’s Performance Perform-O-Flex hose and Swivel Seal fittings. As we pointed out in that segment, it’s not that difficult a task to make up hoses. You have to take your time and you have to be careful with the process.

We’ll finish the assembly right here in this segment and we’ll also show you a pretty cool means to pressure test your hose assemblies using nothing more than a few simple tools, an air compressor and a sink of water. It works great!

And by the way, stay tuned. We’re not quite done yet! Upcoming in the next two issues is a detailed look at how to assemble Earl’s Performance latest Ultra Pro hose. We’re using their slick black fabric hose for the example, and it’s high tech (but something anyone can assemble at home). Watch for it!

Before beginning, take the time to lightly lubricate the ID of the hose and the threads on both the socket and the cutter. I prefer to use Earl’s Assembly Lube (P/N 184004ERL). It has been designed for this job.

Next, mark the end of the hose (behind the socket) with a wrap of duct tape. This allows you to check for hose back out during assembly.

Clamp the cutter segment of the hose end into the vise and lubricate the threads and the cutter. Push the hose and the socket onto the cutter and at the same time, engage the respective threads.

I like to use a tight fitting open-end wrench to completely tighten the fitting. Use care here so you don’t mar the fitting.

I like to use a tight fitting open-end wrench to completely tighten the fitting. Use care here so you don’t mar the fitting.

The hose end can now be cleaned (I use solvent) and wiped clean.

At this stage you can blow out the hose assembly with compressed air. You’re done, except for testing.

It’s a very good idea to pressure test the finished hose. We’ve mentioned these test fittings before – they’re available from Earl’s Performance (P/N D016ERL).

Assemble the test fittings into your hose (I use aluminum hose end wrenches here). Tighten them so that the adapters seat properly. Air the hose up. I typically test the hose at twice the maximum operating pressure. Use a tire PSI gauge to check the pressure.

Submerge the hose under water and watch for bubbles (leaks). No bubbles means no leaks.

Here’s the complete Earl’s Perform-O-Flex hose/Swivel Seal Fitting package. It’s not only very safe and functional – it’s also great looking.