Recommended PEX crimp tool

[Sage55]

I'm not a plumber and don't do this for a living. I'm only look for a PEX crimping tool to use during my house remodel and to start by replacing an outdoor sillcock and thinking about using PEX.

I am considering buying the IWISS copper crimp tool set - does anyone here have an experience with this set or have another set to suggest?

 

[rlitman]

Seems like a lot of money when you could go with Oetiker stainless cinch rings and use a $15 tool.

 

[dogdog]

I have the discontinued Kobalt set, it looked very similar to the one you posted... the crimp with go/no go gauge only, no snipping tools... It is worked fine for me, on the pex stuff and even on garden hose crimping / mending ... Only thing I found this kit ***** is when you are using it on tight spaces... it really *****... Few spots I can't get to at all...


There is that other systems for crimps I think it's the stainless steel cinch clamps ....
like these ....

https://www.homedepot.com/p/SharkBite-3-4-in-PEX-Barb-Stainless-Steel-Clamp-10-Pack-UC955A/202032892

Tooling would be different... both have supporters...


and of cause there is that milwaukee expanding crimp thing... forgot the proper name... $$$$ though.... another system to choose from...but very professional look....

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Milwauk...pansion-Heads-and-Hard-Case-2432-22/203111678

 

[chinboys]

I have used both the ring and ratchet type crimpers to put in several PEX water and heating projects over the years.
I prefer the ratchet crimper as there is a positive stop and I don't have to check with the ring gauge afterward.
The brass fittings and connectors are a bit more stout too in either case and I have great confidence that the connection will last.
If I now have to pick again... the expanding PEX mandrel electric tool and connectors get my attention but the initial outlay is expensive.

 

[Yarpo]

and of cause there is that milwaukee expanding crimp thing... forgot the proper name... $$$$ though.... another system to choose from...but very professional look....

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Milwauk...pansion-Heads-and-Hard-Case-2432-22/203111678

No crimp about it, the expansion rings just slip over the ends of the pipe, the pipe and ring get a little warm with the expansion process, and then they shrink right back down onto your fitting. Hold's air within a few minutes, tho we were told not to test them until about 15 minutes after doing the last fitting.

For a home owner that doesn't want to invest in an expansion setup I'd recommend the cinch style pointed out above over the crimp style, but both will work.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DVK7V4N/?tag=atomicindus08-20

https://www.kinequip.com/products/o...wazpi6sFDQbJH0kqHU-WXPJyQ5An78UYaAhq8EALw_wcB

 

[Sage55]

Seems like a lot of money when you could go with Oetiker stainless cinch rings and use a $15 tool.

I'll see if I can find it again, but I thought I had seen a video about the cinch rings not being as secure as the crimp rings.

I'm completely new to this so if that's not the case and there is another, better method, I'm all ears.

and of cause there is that milwaukee expanding crimp thing... forgot the proper name... $$$$ though.... another system to choose from...but very professional look....

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Milwauk...pansion-Heads-and-Hard-Case-2432-22/203111678

Looks like a VERY nice setup, though the buy in for a simple sillcock replacement and some home remodel down the road seems to be very steep.

 

[Aaron_W]

We did all the under house plumbing in PEX about 7 years ago. We just used the Home Depot crimper and either brass or copper rings.

It takes a little bit of strength, particularly when in tight spaces, but was simple, and going on 7 years without a single leak. As I recall the crimp tool was under $100.


Edit, actually I think there was a brass or copper insert with black metal rings that crimp over the insert / pex. It has been 7 years so getting a little forgetful of the exact process.

 

[Wamsutta]

and of cause there is that milwaukee expanding crimp thing... forgot the proper name... $$$$ though.... another system to choose from...but very professional look....

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Milwauk...pansion-Heads-and-Hard-Case-2432-22/203111678

That Milwaukee tool is for the UPONOR system if I'm not mistaken.

 

[rlitman]

That Milwaukee tool is for the UPONOR system if I'm not mistaken.

Or Wirsbo. Really, any expansion PEX-A system.

I'll see if I can find it again, but I thought I had seen a video about the cinch rings not being as secure as the crimp rings.

I'm completely new to this so if that's not the case and there is another, better method, I'm all ears...

I've never been able to find a reputable opinion stating that. All of these systems (plus SharkBite) are rated as up to code, all, even SharkBite, will withstand enough pressure that the PEX will burst before the fitting fails.

That being said, I prefer the Oetiker because they're more forgiving and less likely to fail. Copper rings are preferred by plumbers because when you do a lot, they're cheaper.

 

[cjarvis]

I have this kit and have been very happy with it.

IWISS PEX Cinch Clamp/Ear Hose Clamps Tool for Stainless Steel Clamp from 3/8-inch to 1-inch with Go-No/Go Gauge 20pcs 1/2-inch and 10 pcs 3/4-inch Clamps Suit ASTM F2098 Standards https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0196DLLWM/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[dogdog]

I'll see if I can find it again, but I thought I had seen a video about the cinch rings not being as secure as the crimp rings.

I'm completely new to this so if that's not the case and there is another, better method, I'm all ears.



Looks like a VERY nice setup, though the buy in for a simple sillcock replacement and some home remodel down the road seems to be very steep.

LOL you are posting this in GJ no sensible thing as over tooling for a project

I would not buy that either, just can't justify for one... I would go with the cinch clamp since I know the crimp rings are PITA in tight spots... unless you get that electric ones even that is questionable...

This thing.. I think other company also makes one...
https://www.milwaukeetool.com/Products/Power-Tools/Plumbing-Installation/Press-Tools/2674-22C

 

[Sage55]

LOL you are posting this in GJ no sensible thing as over tooling for a project

I know I know.

In fact shortly after I made that comment I started looking around more at the tools and even found that Dewalt offers the Dewalt DCE400B tool only.

I already have a number of Dewalt tools and batteries so this might just be the way I go. I don't "NEED" it but you know...