pbs wrote:
I like
PEX connectors come in two flavors that I am aware of: crimp type & expansion type
crimp type requires a crimp tool, a crimp ring, a compatible fitting & go / no-go gage
expansion type needs an expander tool ($$$'), an external plastic ring & compatible fittings
the expansion type system takes advantage of the PEX material shape memory;
The expansion tools, hand, pneumatic or battery are pretty spendy where the crimp tool is cheaper.
Online the expanders are ~$300, $600 w/ 1/2"head, $1200 w/o heads.
I opted for the hand expander kit w/ 1/2, 3/4, 1" expander heads (cheapest)..... hard work but if you use the home run technique & don't have a whole lot of fixtures you probably get away with fewer than 40 "expansions"; plus my plan was not to do all expansions in a single day. I moved before I re-plumbed but this next house needs it as well.
The battery powered expander talks about 1 1/4" & 1 1/2" expander heads so there must be large dia PEX available?
cheers Bob