Replies

1. 
   nikkiwood | Jul 01, 2005 06:40am | #1

   I don't know why you should be having problems with your connectors, unless they are really el cheapos.

   I buy Milton quick-connects -- but only because that is the brand sold by my local tool outlet. Some of them must be 10 years old, and they still don't leak -- even though they're subject to the rigors of job site abuse.

   I assume you know there are about five different styles of fittings for air equipment. If you specifiy "universal" that will cover the 3 most common fittings.

   ********************************************************
   "I tend to live in the past because most of my life is there."
   -- Herb Caen (1916-1997)

2. 
   hammer1 | Jul 01, 2005 08:13am | #2

   Take your existing connection with you to a pneumatic supplier. There are quite a few different sizes available and it's always nice to keep everything matching.

   Beat it to fit / Paint it to match

3. 
   RickL | Jul 01, 2005 02:36pm | #3

   Grizzly sells a reasonably priced coupler that seems to be just a good as the more expensive ones I typically buy for my company. http://www.mcmaster.com and many others sell them but for the hobby guy the Grizzlies are perfect. I'm buying them for the shop as well.

4. 
   bones | Jul 01, 2005 04:53pm | #4

   I use the quick connect ones from harbor freight. They are the automotive tool style. I have had good luck. The critical part is to be sure to use Teflon tape on the hose threads.  I leave a blower attachment on and pressure on the line, and the unit does not leak.  I do get the brass ones, not the aluminum ones.  What I would really like is an auto retracting reel, but I won't fork over the money yet. So I'll just keep winding it up by hand.  Some conveniences I can wait on. 

1. 
   highfigh | Jul 04, 2005 12:37am | #6

   If you want a hose reel, look at Harbor Fright(sp?- just kidding). They have a 3/8" I.D. hose/reel for $40 on sale, pretty often. It seems to be exactly like the ones I bought for a couple of places where I worked and is $125 less. I just need to beef up the stretchers in my garage before I mount mine.
   "I cut this piece four times and it's still too short."

1. 
   RJT | Jul 04, 2005 05:54am | #7

   as it turned out it was one faulty coupler, into the trash barrel and all is well now. thanks all.

1. 
   KeithNewton | Jul 04, 2005 04:46pm | #8

   If you work on a concrete floor, be careful not to drop the male end will get a little dinged when thy hit the floor, making it hard for the rubber to make a good seal.

5. 
   Jellyrug | Jul 03, 2005 08:34pm | #5

   Devilbiss, high flow connectors.

   Last forever, much bigger inside diameter and internals are designed for least resistance to air flow.

   They cost a bit more, but the costs are quickly recovered in compressed air efficiency, which appears on your electrical utility bill.