Re: VAL Digest V3 #157/[VAL] Ahhh, the delights of plumbing

["Uwe Salwender" <salwender@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

>In my quest to replumb the AS, I did some preliminary
>shopping at Lowes. Looks like they have most of what I
>will need (PEX) but seem to be short a few bits. They
>sell the QEST brand. My concern is that when it gets
>down to the crunch they won't have what what I need
>when I need it.
>
>Any suggestions for the best online distributors? How
>about the compression fitting vs. the crimp ring
>style? Looks like the compression type takes up a lot
>more space, but is much cheaper in terms of tools. And
>would be easier for the non-professional to work with.
>Is is a good idea to combine existing copper with new
>PEX? Or just go the whole deal with PEX. My freeze
>problem was a sweat joint at a "T" in the back popped
>and you can tell from the condition of the bits left
>that it was badly corroded anyway. My complete lack of
>soldering skills, and great respect for the effects of
>fire on trailer parts, precludes me re-doing with
>copper.
>
>Any sources or suggestions for further info.
>
>Thanks, bill b.
>'69 Souvereign 31'

Bill,
I am in the plumbing stages right now, 1963 Overlander reconstruction.

I am using PEX as well, with the flair-it fittings. I like it a lot.
The fittings allow for changes, since everything is threaded, not 
crimped. The tool to tighten the compression fittings is $ 8.00.
My source is www.rvpartsoutlet.com  I still call there and talk to Don 
about which fittings I need for which purpose. I know only very little 
about plumbing,and am having literally zero problems so far laying out 
and building the fresh water system. The Flair-it fittings often are 
available at your local rv repair dealer.
I'd say go with PEX the whole way, unless you want to do just a repair 
of the damaged section.
I am using 1/2in PEX for the entire system. My tubing came from RV 
Parts Outlet in Oregon, web address above.

Best,
Uwe Salwender
Orange CA