I have been used my DeWalt Pex expansion tool to redo a mobile home. The other day I wanted to redo a 3/4 inch water line in my garage. I grabbed the Pex a T connector and went to work. When I went to expand the Pex with collar on it, and insert it into the T. It didn't shrink enough to make a tight connection. I tried it again, and the same thing happened. I finally just put it aside and grabbed a shark bite connection.
My question is. What is causing the 3/4 inch head to over expand the Pex? Can I fix it or?
Thanks
Mike
Dewalt Pex Expansion tool Problems
Posts
Re: Dewalt Pex Expansion tool Problems
#2
Answer produced by Claude AI (link in footer):
There are a few potential reasons why your DeWalt expansion tool may be over-expanding the 3/4" PEX pipe when using it on that particular connection:
Incompatible sizes - The expansion head may be slightly oversized for 3/4" pipe or the T connector may have a slightly undersized opening. Even small differences in diameters can prevent a tight fit.
Worn expander head - If the expanders have been used extensively they can wear out and lose the ability to grip and fully expand the pipe.
Damaged O-ring - There may be an issue with the O-ring that helps hold the expanded pipe tight in the fitting. Damage or wear would cause leaks.
Debris buildup - Buildup in the expander jaws or pipe ends can prevent full expansion and a tight seal.
Inconsistent technique - Irregular pressure or positioning when expanding can lead to poor connections.
To troubleshoot, I'd first thoroughly clean the expander jaws, PEX ends, and fittings. Then check for any wear or damage on the O-rings and expander head itself. You may need to replace parts if worn. Also be careful to fully insert the expander and hold steady pressure when expanding the pipe into the fitting.
If issues persist, you may need to switch to an expander head specifically made for 3/4" PEX. Retest on scrap pieces first before continuing project. Let me know if the problem is resolved or if you have any other questions!
Re: Dewalt Pex Expansion tool Problems
#3Thanks. I will look at the O-rings. That seems to make more sense to me.
Re: Dewalt Pex Expansion tool Problems
#4It really cannot over expand if you are using the correct jaws. What i have found is if the pipe is cold, I usually only trigger abut 5-6 clicks and quickly insert fitting to proper shoulder depth. I recheck to make sure the fitting will not rotate easily in pipe before i pressure up. About thirty minutes. For the record I only use uphonor pex, expansion rings and fittings.
Re: Dewalt Pex Expansion tool Problems
#5
Re: Dewalt Pex Expansion tool Problems
#6I have done a few more connections with this tool over the last year. The 1/2 inch works fine. I did go through all the heads and the tool itself, I cleaned all the old grease off (food grade), and applied a really light coat on it. This seemed to help it move easier. I think the issue was some of the old grease was causing the issue. I am not sure but cleaning it and redoing the grease seemed to help.
Thanks