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View Full Version : Birthday Dishwasher Install Stalled


Mrs_P
Oct 10, 2009, 09:02 PM
My boys just brought me a brand new dishwasher to replace the broken one I've sort of kept as a status symbol for the past two years. When I reconnected the copper pipe from my water source to the original elbow connector, the darn thing leaked horribly. I called Lowe's and they said I probably ruined the threads. So, I purchased a new Watts Tube to MIP Elbow w/ Insert (1/2 x 3/8) which the guy in plumbing said was an exact match to my old one. When I got it home, I cut the pipe, sanded it and opened my purchase. It seems to have come with a "brass insert" that just drops down the copper pipe when I try to stick it in per the tiny "Installation Instruction" sheet. The compression elbow thing didn't have a brass insert, nor did it seem to have a ferrule. I can't figure out how this new compression piece works. I have the plumbers' tape, I have the yellow "back up" tube of stuff, but I can't even figure out how the compression nut and this brass insert are supposed to work. I came here because I couldn't find a drawing of the elbow joint + tube configuration- just something about olives and the ring types. If the insert slides down the copper pipe, do I have the wrong size or is it just for plastic tubing? Do I need a ring instead or do I just pay the installer to come out to attach one hose for $135? Please help!

massplumber2008
Oct 11, 2009, 04:27 AM
Hi Mrs. P:

Belated Happy Birthday!

As you suspected in your next to last sentence... the brass insert is for PLASTIC TUBING only... ;) Since you have copper tubing just throw the insert away!

Install teflon tape to the threaded brass elbow, but do not apply teflon tape or pipe dope (thread sealant) to the compression fit. It is unnecessary and could leak in the future.

Otherwise, slide the compression nut onto the tubing first, then slide the compression sleeve (ferrule) onto the tubing and slide the tubing into the elbow and tighten the compression sleeve... see image.

Finally, if the brass insert just fell into the copper tubing you may have a 1/2" O.D. tubing and you will need to go back to the store and get a 3/8" male x 1/2" OD compression elbow... just another thought!

Let us know if you want to discuss...

MARK

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