Bought this tool because of the excellent reviews.
After the first flare on a copper base metal brake line I noticed the flare was a bit scored. Had a look at the centre screw and it was a bit chewed up. Obviously the taper was not hardened. I was in need of a proper flare so I put the centre screw in my lathe and shaved off the score on the taper. Noticed the original taper was not exactly 45 degrees. When I cut the new 45 I noticed the metal was very easy to cut, no hardening at all. I used very light pressure on the next flare and applied some grease to the 45. The centre shaft scored again. if only they would harden the centre shaft and cut or grind a proper 45! Looked up some more reviews and found others had the same problems.
Anyhow, be warned........ this tool also sold under the Cal-Van label will cause scored and inaccurate flares ! Beware!
After the first flare on a copper base metal brake line I noticed the flare was a bit scored. Had a look at the centre screw and it was a bit chewed up. Obviously the taper was not hardened. I was in need of a proper flare so I put the centre screw in my lathe and shaved off the score on the taper. Noticed the original taper was not exactly 45 degrees. When I cut the new 45 I noticed the metal was very easy to cut, no hardening at all. I used very light pressure on the next flare and applied some grease to the 45. The centre shaft scored again. if only they would harden the centre shaft and cut or grind a proper 45! Looked up some more reviews and found others had the same problems.
Anyhow, be warned........ this tool also sold under the Cal-Van label will cause scored and inaccurate flares ! Beware!