Is there an EASY way to get the 1/2" lines of drip into the fittings?

[Mike Corazzi]

I am nearly dead today.
Rainbird has NEW style compression fittings that are SUPPOSED to go on easy and they aren't all THAT tough.
Only a 9 on scale of 10.

I got some of the old style green insert kind and can get NEITHER type to go into the compression fitting that is supposed to work on them.

I tried a match and just melted the line.

Is there a TRICK to this?

I did one years ago but have either got too damn old to be able to force the line in or there's something else wrong.

?????

 

[michaelj]

Yes. Boil some water. Bring it out with you. Submerge the end of the tubing into the water and hold it there for a few seconds and try it again. If that doesn't work, put it back in the water for a bit longer.

 

[Smoke]

Vaseline? It has always worked for me when I am trying to push something big into a hole.....

 

[Mike Corazzi]

Yes. Boil some water. Bring it out with you. Submerge the end of the tubing into the water and hold it there for a few seconds and try it again. If that doesn't work, put it back in the water for a bit longer.

I tried that and it still leaked like a punctured bucket. Didn't get it FAR in though. Might be too cold out.
Seems though like it SHOULD do the job.
Also they said to try dish soap. Nope.
This stuff is entirely too difficult. Someone should make line that CLAMPS on fittings.

 

[Mike Corazzi]

Just tried BOILING water. BOTH the new style and the old green bastards refuse to do anything but buckle when trying to get them on the line.

 

[BrianBay9]

Heat is the trick. I use a lighter to soften the tube.

 

[Bonsai Nut]

Try this. Chew on the last 1/2" of the tube. Chomp on it with your molars until you have mashed it several times in different directions. Then slip it on the fitting fast, and it will retract for a snug fit.

Hey - it works for me

 

[sorce]

Did you get it Mike?

Sorce

 

[Smoke]

Try this. Chew on the last 1/2" of the tube. Chomp on it with your molars until you have mashed it several times in different directions. Then slip it on the fitting fast, and it will retract for a snug fit.

Hey - it works for me

He is using the female type connectors for his 1/2 line. Like this:



Not the barbed type like on the 1/4 inch drip line. the stuff like this:


Chewing on it will only make if soft and loose its stiffness to go solidly into the whole. Use the vaseline and get a grip on it and push it in. I have helped put in whole orchards of this stuff. It is not that hard to do. I have no idea what your problem may be. You may be experincing old fittings and new off size hose, like from China.

 

[fredman]

Yeah I used to do irrigation for a living. This system is what I used. Cant see the problem either. Something doesn't sound right.... Smaller ones slide in easily. From 3/4" upwards (if its thick walled) needs to be left in the sun to soften or dipped in warm water sometimes... maybe its bargain stuff from China yes....
Take it back and let them show you how they do it !!!

 

[M. Frary]

Chewing on it will only make if soft and loose its stiffness to go solidly into the whole.

Happens every time.

 

[sorce]

I was thinking it was like this....


With a specific I.D./O.D.
I think the Inside Diameter is wrong.

A dremel grinder could be used on the inside to taper it....then it might jam in.

Yes....China.

Sorce

 

[bonsaibp]

Hire someone else to do it.

 

[Mike Corazzi]

Hire someone else to do it.

GOOD ADVICE is not solicited for this forum. Go away!

 

[Mike Corazzi]

What I think I am GOING to do is just use the ONE line that is attached to the bonsai rack and then....from the timer to the ONE line.... I will use a cheap HOSE!
Hoses I can do.
That will take it to ONE fitting of a line into a sumbidge gizmo!


I got all fancy and tried to go from timer to rack with swell bendy elbows and neatness.

Well I guess I learned a lesson.

And ...China? Neutron bomb should get their fittings to go in.

 

[Mike Corazzi]

The single 15 foot GARDEN HOSE .....worked!
Replacing all the lines and connectors that are now going to be MULCHED!
or BURNT!
Naahhh.... just tossed in the garbage.

 

[GrimLore]

Well I guess I learned a lesson.

Call them - they claim to be one of the best and should provide you proper support -

If you have any questions or need personal assistance, please give us a call toll-free at 1-800-RAINBIRD (1-800-724-6247) Monday through Friday from 5 AM to 5 PM Pacific Time.

Grimmy

 

[Mike Corazzi]

I'm jazzed! Combination of a 15' garden hose to line with only TWO compression fittings has done the trick.
And it's even neater.
Which I would not have expected.

 

[Potawatomi13]

Hire someone else to do it.

Seconded! How expensive could be if lines already cut.