Motorsport Plumbing Systems: Push To Connect Fittings
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Push To Connect Fittings
02.43
| 00:00 | In this module we'll be discussing an alternative to push on fittings and small hose clamps or cable ties, when connecting rubber hose for small diameter vacuum or pressure lines. |
| 00:11 | Like our other fittings, there's usually a threaded fitting end that threads into a component, like a boost control solenoid for example, as well as a hose end where a small diameter plastic, rubber or silicon hose can be connected. |
| 00:24 | These fittings could feature 90 degree angles or alternatively just be joiners to connect two hoses or even a T fitting. |
| 00:32 | It's the connection method of the tubing that's special for this type of fitting, where the tubing can simply be pushed into the fitting and this locks it in place. |
| 00:41 | This makes these extremely quick and easy to work with. |
| 00:45 | So, how do they work? The fitting body holds a collet that when forced into the body is fully open. |
| 00:52 | This allows the tubing to be pushed into the body through the collet. |
| 00:55 | The tubing is pushed up against a pipe stop in the body, preventing further insertion. |
| 01:01 | Pulling backwards on the tubing will drag the collet out with it, assuming the fittings are the correct sizes. |
| 01:08 | As the collet is pulled back it tightens on the tubing. |
| 01:11 | The collet can't slide out of the fitting body due to internal stops, so it prevents the tube being pulled out, essentially using friction to hold the tube in. |
| 01:21 | The tightening of the collet on the tube along with some other o-rings in the body helps create a seal. |
| 01:27 | Unfortunately the lower quality options are prone to leaks and tend not to function properly, but as with most things in motorsport, you get what you pay for. |
| 01:36 | It's also worth noting that the semi-rigid plastic tubing we commonly see used with these fittings, as well as some plastic versions of the fittings themselves, are often not up to the task of withstanding the temperatures of motorsport. |
| 01:50 | Put simply, they melt. |
| 01:51 | So, be sure to understand the heat rating of the materials before purchasing them. |
| 01:56 | Moving on, if the collet is pushed back into the body, this will loosen its grip on the tubing, allowing it to be pulled out of the fitting and disconnected. |
| 02:05 | Some fittings will also include a locking clip for extra security, which prevents the collets being pushed in unintentionally and allowing the hose to be removed. |
| 02:15 | Swivels are also included on angled fittings to help with installation and routing. |
| 02:21 | To recap the main points here, push to connect fittings are useful for small diameter plumbing like vacuum or boost lines. |
| 02:28 | We can connect tubing to the fittings by sliding it into the collet, which locks it in place and forms a seal. |
| 02:35 | To disconnect, we just need to push the collet into the body and pull back on the tubing. |
