Bronze Flare Nuts

[Traveler 45C]

Anyone have a source for these?

[Brian Degulis]

Curious why you need Bronze?

Brian

[GaryNW]

Perhaps you have noticed that the flare nuts Hatteras used are just a lot more robust than what you are seeing on the shelf locally? I suggest what you want are forged flare nuts (vs machined from bar stock). Mueller and Holyoke make forged flare nuts, as well as less expensive bar-stock based. The forged are stronger and less likely to have flaws (including porosity) - well worth the extra cost IMO. Also, go with long vs the standard short pattern for the extra strain-relief benefit. The forged stuff was typically used in refrigeration service- they seemed to be more interested in no-leaks.

The forged are also "brass" , but I believe they are the upgrade you are seeking. Just buy online if a local supplier can't/won't help you out.
Gary

[Traveler 45C]

Curious why you need Bronze?

Brian

Because I'm paranoid! I don't want to introduce anything into the system that may induce any corrosion.

I'm replacing a copper fresh water line. I've already had de-zincification issues using brass fittings (I didn't know any better at the time) on my A/C lines so, I thought it best not to use too much brass. Plus, just about everyone on here says don't buy any fittings from Home Depot, and that's where I got the flare nut that I was about to use.

Am I being too paranoid?

[REBrueckner]

USe the forged brass if you like somehting more robust. Under normal circumstances a flare nut is not in contact with any liquid and fresh water should not be an issue even if it were.

[REBrueckner]

I should have reminded others: far more significant is using heavy wall copper tubing..it's been discussed previously...in HOme Cheapo its the "refrigeration tubing"...trying to put a flare on the thin stuff is VERY frustrating....

[Brian Degulis]

Because I'm paranoid! I don't want to introduce anything into the system that may induce any corrosion.

I'm replacing a copper fresh water line. I've already had de-zincification issues using brass fittings (I didn't know any better at the time) on my A/C lines so, I thought it best not to use too much brass. Plus, just about everyone on here says don't buy any fittings from Home Depot, and that's where I got the flare nut that I was about to use.

Am I being too paranoid?

Not paranoid smart. But I don't think your going to find bronze flare nuts maybe but I've never seen them. The problem is Home Depot they carry the worst plumbing products. try Mcmaster Carr or a good hose shop the quality will be equal to your OEM Nuts.

Brian

[Daybreak]

Have you thought about using PEX? Chris on Couragous replaced all of his water lines with it. Easy to work with and super long lasting. Just courious.

Ben

[Traveler 45C]

Have you thought about using PEX? Chris

No.

I don't have much experience working with copper and virtually none doing flare fittings. What I know about these I've learned here on this site and Calder's book. I’ve chosen to replace the copper line because it’s OEM and I want to get some practical experience working with the stuff. I’m not afraid to try something new and love learning new things, especially about the boat.

This Forum and the knowledgeable souls who share their gifts here are much appreciated! It’s scary to think of the kind of boater I’d be without the knowledge I’ve gained here.

[Traveler 45C]

Under normal circumstances a flare nut is not in contact with any liquid....

Didn't think of that.