Wow, there's $40 difference between the 23337 (double) and 23332 (single) flare tools! Are the double flare adapters that "special"? I have a set of the adapters from a cheapo kit, will they work? Also, on Amazon's reviews, there was someone posting that the 23337 tool will not make a double flare on 3/16" tubing, which just happens to be the most common size for cars...
I would bet that they are the same tool just with or without the double flare adapters. I used the Double flare adapters from my cheapo kit with the Ridgid tool and it worked fine. Also I would bet that some of those bad reviews are from people that couldnt do a good flare no matter which tool they use. Might not be starting with a straight cut, like they used a hacksaw to cut the tube instead of a tubing cutter. And some that say they still have leaks could be because they arent using a double flare where they should be and are just using a single flare.
I never make just a single flare. Cleaning the tubing after cutting it with a cutter is so important! I turn mine a lot of turns around the tube with just small amounts of the adjustment wheel. Yeah, it takes a little longer, but you don't have to spend as much time removing the flash from the tubing! Once this is done and the right adapter is used to double flair, I've never had a problem ( other than forgetting to put the nut on first ) I'm glad to know any adapters will work with the Ridgid tool! I have all my Imperial ones, so that will save money when I get the Ridgid tool! Got a question with all this. What issue are you guys having with the green coat tubing? I've used it on both my car and truck, so now you guys are scaring me!
I hate it when you forget to put the tube nut on. Good tip on the cutting and cleaning, its another thing many dont do correctly when making a flare. I havent had an issue with the green coated tubing, maybe it just slides through the cheaper flare tools more easily.
The difference in price is the dies. My cheapo kit was missing the 3/16 die so I had to buy the kit with the dies. Anyway, I tried the 3/16 green coated stuff and the Rigid has no problem with it at all. They also suggest using oil on the die to aid in the making of the flair. I always lubricate with brake fluid so I dont have worry about cleaning and contamination
Good idea on using brake fluid for lubricant. I usually flush the lines with brake cleaner afterwards.
LMAO Wonder how many times I did this over the years. Its always after you did your perfect looking flare aint it!!! Also putting it upside down.
If a car needs to be completely re-plumbed, I convert everything over to 37 deg. single flare for AN fittings. If it is just a repair I take it back to the original 45 deg. double flare.
