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western mainer
05-25-2015, 02:59 PM
What size coupling nuts are you using to make your 3/4" and the 1" tools?
Thanks Brian

mellondome
05-25-2015, 03:11 PM
Go the next pipe size bigger in a threaded collar.

maple flats
05-25-2015, 04:34 PM
On my factory made mainline tool, they used pipe couplings of the nominal size. The 1" is about 1/3 of the circumference out of a 1" pipe coupling, and the 3/4" is 1/3 of a 3/4" pipe coupling. On smaller sizes, like 5/16 an all thread long nut is split. I'm not sure of that size off hand. On the pipe couplings the sharp edge is slightly ground off so it does not cut into the mainline when clamped tight.
In fact I have a 4 size mainline tool, the 1.5" and 1.25" are welded in, and the outer one has a hole drilled in the center. Then my 3/4" or the 1" each have a bolt stub welded out the back of the coupling, then when I need either the 3/4" or 1" I just attach it into the hole in that outer coupling, screw on a wing nut and it's ready to use. This proves especially handy if connecting 1.25 to 1" or 1" to 3/4", I just have the 2 sizes attached in the jaw. I can still, with no attachments use the 1.25 to 1.5" but it does not align as well and it requires me to tap the side of the tubing as the fitting enters it, or the connection pushes out and kinks. To do that I use a rubber or leather mallet and hit the bulge into line. If I don't have either mallet I find a 2-3" diameter log chunk and use that.

western mainer
05-26-2015, 06:17 PM
Thanks Flat for the info!
Brian

unc23win
05-27-2015, 08:11 AM
If you are going to build your own you should message Jake Moser he is a very nice guy and he has very good pictures and notes of one he made.