Cheap flaring tool problem


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Old 01-12-09, 06:19 AM
C
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Cheap flaring tool problem

I bought an inexpensive flaring tool at the local hardware store to do a couple flares. Unfortunately, on the trial flares I've done, the head of the tool slips even if I put a lot of hand pressure to hold it onto the body of the tool, so the flare is at best lopsided.

I was able to do a clean flare if I stick the whole tool in the vice, but need to do the flare on an existing installed piece of pipe.

Here's a link the the tool, a Great Neck FT3C: Pipe Flaring Tool #FT3C by Great Neck Saw at HardwareAndTools.com.

Is there any way to get this tool to work or should I return it and find a better one?

Thanks much -

Chaz
 
  #2  
Old 01-12-09, 09:00 AM
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Great Neck tools are pretty low grade imported product.They are generally considered homeowner quality.I'd return it for another of the same before trying a higher priced unit unless you think you'll be using it fairly often.It may be the one you have and another one might do well enough for your needs.
 
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Old 01-12-09, 10:57 AM
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Thanks

I chatted with Great Neck's support line and they thought it might be that the tool isn't machined quite right, said I could swap it through their support or I could take it back to the store if I can't get it to work.

I was able to get one clean trial flare after the phone call, hink I could proably take a flat file to the notches and get it to hold more reliably, but I decided to get a better tool as I'll be working on a gas pipe and I'd rather not risk having to cut the pipe a second time to try to get it right.
 
 

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