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Check Crimp — Verify Crimp with Go/No-Go Gauge

Beginner2 hours

Part of project

How to Cut and Crimp PEX Tubing Like a Pro · Step 6 of 6

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In this video

Use the Go/No-Go gauge to check the crimp. If the 'Go' side fits and the 'No Go' side does not, the crimp is correct. If the ring does not pass these tests, it must be removed and replaced.

Goal: Verify crimp

  • Never re-crimp a ring.

Used in this video

  • Go/No-Go Gauge (Tool Type: Measuring instruments, Power Source: Manual, Material Compatibility: Copper, Durability: High, Cost: Low, Material: Steel, Tool Functionality: Measuring, Precision and Accuracy: High) · optional — Verifying the crimp is within the proper specifications.
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FAQs

Why is using a go/no-go gauge so critical after crimping PEX, and what does it tell me?

The go/no-go gauge is essential for ensuring your crimp connection meets industry standards and is leak-proof. The 'go' side should fit over the crimp ring, and the 'no-go' side should not. This confirms your crimp is properly sized and secure, preventing costly leaks down the line.

What are the most common mistakes beginners make when crimping PEX tubing, and how can I avoid them?

Common mistakes include not cutting the tubing squarely, placing the crimp ring too far from the end of the tubing, or failing to use the go/no-go gauge. To avoid these, ensure clean, square cuts, position the crimp ring about 1/8 inch from the end of the tubing and over the barb, and always verify your crimp with the gauge.

The materials list both PEX-A and PEX-B tubing. Does the type of PEX tubing (A or B) affect how I use copper crimp rings?

While copper crimp rings primarily use barbed fittings that are compatible with PEX-B and PEX-C, they can also be used with PEX-A tubing. The crimping method itself remains the same for all PEX types when using barbed fittings and copper crimp rings, but PEX-A is also commonly used with expansion fittings.

How accurate is the 'beginner' difficulty rating for this project, and what's a realistic time estimate for a first-timer to get a good crimp?

The 'beginner' rating is accurate as the steps are straightforward once understood, but practice is key. For a first-timer, expect each connection to take 10-15 minutes initially as you get familiar with tool handling and positioning. With a few successful crimps, your speed and confidence will quickly increase.

Transcript
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check the 1 8 to 1 4 inch gap check the copper crimp ring with the included go no go gauge select the tubing size on the gauge slip the go opening over the crimped copper ring when the gauge slips over the ring it indicates the ring is fully crimped to proper specification select the no-go opening and attempt to slip it over the crimped copper ring if it does not slip over the ring the gauge indicates the ring is fully crimped if the copper crimp ring does not pass these tests it must be removed and replaced never re-crimp a ring that has been

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