To PEX or Not to PEX (Page 2): Reading the directions, I see that I don't need tools. I just cut the tubing to size, remove and re-use the nut, and add the special washer supplied for...

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

Reading the directions, I see that I don't need tools. I just cut the tubing to size, remove and re-use the nut, and add the special washer supplied for each line. If I loop it, I must maintain an 8" diameter. I'm going to take a chance and hope for a nice, square cut.

jbk224 Loc: Long Island, NY

Even the faucets that come with copper supplies attached also have the 3/8" connected fittings. Not sure why Delta/Lowes decided to go with this configuration other than cost. PEX reduces the cost of the product significantly-- maybe not so much to the consumer, but definitely adding to the GP of the manufacturer and distributor. The decision to use any PEX fittings is usually done at the construction stage/rough in stage of the project. You then purchase product that will be compatible with PEX. This is usually the decision made by the contractor/plumbing contractor that already has the tools for installation. Your issue only came up because your purchase of the kitchen faucet had incompatible supply lines for your rough installation.

jbk224 Loc: Long Island, NY

jbk224 wrote:

Even the faucets that come with copper supplies at... (show quote)

This would be similar to purchasing a Z series lens for your DSLR without having the adapter. (Let's bring this back to photography!)

jbk224 Loc: Long Island, NY

jbk224 wrote:

This would be similar to purchasing a Z series lens for your DSLR without having the adapter. (Let's bring this back to photography!)

But in this case you would not have any choices that would make this work. Return the lens and purchase one that is compatible with your camera!

Longshadow Loc: Audubon, PA, United States

jbk224 wrote:

This would be similar to purchasing a Z series lens for your DSLR without having the adapter. (Let's bring this back to photography!)

Haha - It's under general chit-chat, doesn't have to be photography related.

Dave327 Loc: Duluth, GA. USA

jerryc41 wrote:

Reading the directions, I see that I don't need tools. I just cut the tubing to size, remove and re-use the nut, and add the special washer supplied for each line. If I loop it, I must maintain an 8" diameter. I'm going to take a chance and hope for a nice, square cut.

Cut the pex about 1/4 to 1/2” longer than you need. It does not have to be perfectly square. The nut and derrilan sleeve is what makes the seal. Pay attention to directions on what direction the sleeve goes on. It should be the larger end up towards the nut.

DirtFarmer Loc: Escaped from the NYC area, back to MA

brucebc wrote:

Most Home Depot's will lend you the crimping tool.

Rent?

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

All done!

I cut the PEX to length, removed the nut and put it back onto the tube. Then I added the washer they supplied. I screwed the nut onto the water supply lines, and it's fine - no leaks. Now I have water in the kitchen again.

The next step is to hook up the new drain pipes for the sink and the dishwasher. In the meantime, a five gallon bucket catches the water from the sink. Now I can give the dogs a bath.

Thanks for your help!

Tom DePuy Loc: Waxhaw, N.C.

jbk224 wrote:

This would be similar to purchasing a Z series lens for your DSLR without having the adapter. (Let's bring this back to photography!)

Why does this have to be brought back to photography?????
It's in the non-photography section.
Just sayin'

machia Loc: NJ

Sharkbites and PEX. No new tools needed Jerry.

Ollieboy

jerryc41 wrote:

I got the new sink in the counter, but the PEX water lines from the faucet are about two feet too long. If I shorten them, I'll have to use PEX, which means buying an expensive collection of tools for a one-time situation. I thought I could just make a big loop of the long tubing and run it to the copper supply lines. Sound good?

Jerry, small loops are not all that uncommon on water hose connections. It takes stress off the hose if it had no play in the line.

Manglesphoto Loc: 70 miles south of St.Louis

jerryc41 wrote:

I got the new sink in the counter, but the PEX water lines from the faucet are about two feet too long. If I shorten them, I'll have to use PEX, which means buying an expensive collection of tools for a one-time situation. I thought I could just make a big loop of the long tubing and run it to the copper supply lines. Sound good?

Jerry
they make a quick connector Brand here is Shark-bite just cut the tubing square and insert it into the connector, your done

camerabuff58 Loc: Ontario, Canada,

Jerry.
Use sharkbite fittings.
They slip over the existing waterline without the need for anything other than a hacksaw, unless of course, your lines are plastic.
Then pex is the only choice.

Collhar Loc: New York City.

jerryc41 wrote:

I got the new sink in the counter, but the PEX water lines from the faucet are about two feet too long. If I shorten them, I'll have to use PEX, which means buying an expensive collection of tools for a one-time situation. I thought I could just make a big loop of the long tubing and run it to the copper supply lines. Sound good?

Or a bucket. My husband ran a extra PEX line to a new garden. I know the tools he used were not expensive. All in all it was not an expensive job.

Dannj

Gotta love the “Chit-chat” section on UHH!
I’m never going to attempt what you’re trying mainly ‘cause I haven’t a clue as to what you’re talking about but for some weird reason I can’t wait to find out how it all works out. Good luck👍