ProPEX Expander

[Roadrunner]

I'm curious if anyone has used the ProPex Expander in the re-plumbing of their Airstream. It looks like an interesting way to connect PEX tubing. Not sure whether the ProPEX technique would be any cheaper...or afford a better connection.

Bob
Indiana, PA

TAC PA-5
WBCCI 4871

[lewster]

Never used the 'ProPex' system but did build a house 15 years ago using the Wirsbo system. Very similar to the current ProPex. Worked very well and never had a leak.Easy to use and much more reliable than crimp type joints.

You will need to use all of the tubing, fittings and retention collars from ProPex to assure tight joints. One of the main advantages to the expansion type Pex systems is that you won't need to get a crimp tool into close quarters. You slip the retention collar on the PEX, expand both and then slip over the fitting and wait for it to shrink back to it's normal dimensions.

Have fun!

[Roadrunner]

Lew thanks for your thoughts on ProPEX. Do you think this is overkill for our Airstreams? Not sure I've ever seen ProPex tubing or fittings for sale in any of the big box stores. Who sells ProPEX (besides online vendors). Thanks!

Bob
Indiana, PA

TAC PA-5
WBCCI 4871

[Bugtussel]

uponor/wirsbo same system patent still owned by wirsbo, Do some research I beleive you will find they had some leak issues in europe where this came from. Don't know that I would want to chance this in an airstream with the vibrations experienced while towing especially considering that the fittings and rings are all plastic.

[dibAL]

I re-plumbed our 66 Safari using Propex. The material was left over from a home plumbing project. I had the original hand expander (since the battery operated ones were not in common usage at the time). Once you get the sequence down (don't forget the expansion collar!), it's a fast and reliable system. Spring for a pex cutter ($20) no matter which type of pex you go with. I got lucky with some solder fittings which actually fit over the oddly sized original copper which allowed me to leave stubs of the original copper feeding the faucets. I used a manifold for the cold water supply. I used all Propex fittings. I know people who have mixed other types of pex fittings with the Propex system but why take the chance? The expansion tool would be your greatest expense by far (though it's always good to have a new tool)! Overkill? Not hardly. It's for the Airstream! Good luck. mike