Leaking Pex Connection. Do I Need a Tool?

manyman297
manyman297 Member Posts: 1,434
in Heating/Plumbing & Winterizing
During dewinterizing I noticed the pex connection leading to the Alde temp valve has a slight leak. I'm not super familiar with Pex but it looks like I'll need to replace and reinstall a new fitting, correct? Or is this something that could be tightened with a different tool? I guess it makes sense to have the tool on hand anyway? Any insight is appreciated. 


2021 400 BD
2020 Tacoma TRD Off-Road 

Comments

  • pthomas745
    pthomas745 Administrator, Moderator Posts: 4,593
    This has come up a couple of times in the last few days.  The general consensus is the pex fastener on a PVC hose is inappropriate and a hose clamp would be better.  (I know there is a post about this somewhere...). But, yes, there are pex tools for these clamp types.
    2017 Outback
    Towed by 2014 Touareg TDi
  • pthomas745
    pthomas745 Administrator, Moderator Posts: 4,593
    Here is the thread with the discussion of a "pex clamp" on PVC hoses.


    2017 Outback
    Towed by 2014 Touareg TDi
  • manyman297
    manyman297 Member Posts: 1,434
    @pthomas745 Thanks for the link! It sounds like a worm gear hose clamp would be preferred which is something I can handle. Just need to find the right diameter. 
    2021 400 BD
    2020 Tacoma TRD Off-Road 
  • manyman297
    manyman297 Member Posts: 1,434
    Just saw this posted on FB Nucamp Owner’s Group. I ended up using a worm gear clamp and it appears to be working but I have no idea if this is the best fix vs. replacing the flex tubing with PEX. Unfortunately the video’s recommendation is to not buy a camper with flex tubing…too late 

    https://youtu.be/YPQ_aTOW5xw?si=wJHICzXwFNtzR_Wt
    2021 400 BD
    2020 Tacoma TRD Off-Road 
  • Basil48192
    Basil48192 Member Posts: 437
    @manyman297.
    I'm not sure how long it will last, but I've repaired two small leaks from this type of connection.  I have a pair of pinch pliers in my toolbox and just tightened up the existing clamp.  They are inexpensive and tend to fit in tight spaces.  It's been 2 or 3 years since I repaired the first leak and, so far, it hasn't returned.  The pliers shown below are in stock at the Lowes near me for about $15.



  • manyman297
    manyman297 Member Posts: 1,434
    @Basil48192 Thanks for the info. I'll keep an eye on these worm clamps. Hopefully they do the job. It's not fun trying to remove those pinch clamps.
    2021 400 BD
    2020 Tacoma TRD Off-Road 

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