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[WoodMOJoe]

I have done quite a bit of PVC and CPVC, some black and galvanized steel, but I am a total novice when it comes to pex (and sweated copper for that matter).

What do you guys prefer/like/use to make your pex connections?  Brands, suppliers, tools?

It looks like there are 3 main types of connectors...cinch, clamp and "$harkbite$")?

From what research I have done I am leaning towards the cinch type but am open to all suggestions.

Are there some situations where you have to use a $harkbite just because it is impossible to get a cinch/crimp tool in a restricted space?

[yoderheating]

 I install a lot of furnaces and I normally use crimp rings. Sometimes I do use shark bites when its in a spot I can't get the crimper to. I've never had any problems with shark bites except that they cost a fortune. I believe the last 1 inch elbows I bought were around $12, that can add up on a job.

[WoodMOJoe]

I install a lot of furnaces and I normally use crimp rings. Sometimes I do use shark bites when its in a spot I can't get the crimper to. I've never had any problems with shark bites except that they cost a fortune. I believe the last 1 inch elbows I bought were around $12, that can add up on a job.

Thanks yoder, that helps.  I guess the main reason I thought I might go with cinch was they seem to be a little more expensive than crimp, but not much, thought they might be a little better.  I don't have any tools yet so I am not locked into one or the other.

And that also confirms what I thought...that in a tight spot a guy might have to go with $harkbite$...and that they are higher than a scared cat's back in price!   

[yoderheating]

 look online and sometimes you can find a better deal. pexsupply.com is one place I use for a few parts

[RSI]

Cinch clamp and crimp ring use the same barb fittings. They are both ASTM certified for use on pex so either will be fine. The rings are a little more expensive but the tool is cheaper and works on all sizes and can get in tighter areas. 1" cinch clamps are about 50 cents each. For a small job, getting a cinch tool makes a lot more sense than a crimp ring tool.

The copper rings do look a little nicer though.

[WoodMOJoe]

look online and sometimes you can find a better deal. pexsupply.com is one place I use for a few parts

I will check out that site, thanks.

[WoodMOJoe]

Cinch clamp and crimp ring use the same barb fittings. They are both ASTM certified for use on pex so either will be fine. The rings are a little more expensive but the tool is cheaper and works on all sizes and can get in tighter areas. 1" cinch clamps are about 50 cents each. For a small job, getting a cinch tool makes a lot more sense than a crimp ring tool.

The copper rings do look a little nicer though.

Appearance is not an issue with me, just performance.  And I am just looking at using these things for 2 installs, mine and my neighbors'...and whatever repairs  might be required in the future. 

I have a couple spots that will be a little close so I may go with the cinch-style.

[RSI]

If you have a lowes or Menards near by, they should have a cinch tool for about $40.

[WoodMOJoe]

If you have a lowes or Menards near by, they should have a cinch tool for about $40.

No Menards in this immediate area yet but we do have Lowes and Home Despot, will check them out, thanks.

[WoodMOJoe]

This may not be the cheapest way to go because of the tool for just one install but the fittings are very reasonable and it is fast, easy and reliable plus works in tight places better than most anything. If you do pex plumbing/heating in any amount and are wondering about which way to go check it out.
http://www.pexsupply.com/Milwaukee-2432-20-M12-ProPEX-Expansion-Tool-Tool-Only
 Wirsbo is a popular brand but I have to say I did not like their original pinch tool and fittings, this ProPEX system works easier and quicker than anything else I know of.

Yeh, the tool price is a deal breaker for me but I did hit the link and check out the video, that's a cool tool.  If I was going to get into this bigtime I would definitely consider it, thanks.

[atvalaska]

the plumbers in these parts..... think of the shark bite plumbers > as want to bee's...scabs..etc   do it rite the 1st time they say

[Roger2561]

 The Home Depot in our area carry everything I need, so that's an option too.

[oldchenowth]

I use the crimp rings.  Watts brand "sharkbite" absolutety suck! Plastic or brass.  They leak when the temp comes down.  I bought a crimper at Menards with four size jaws for $85.  One of the best purchases I have made.  3/8, 1/2, 3/4, and 1".  Fast and easy.  I have copper to pex, cpvc to pex, pex to pex.  A cheap $15 -20 cutter and you are off the the races.  Only way to plumb in my book.

[f150bft]

Is there any certain type of crimp/cinch tool not to get or use.  Anybody tried to rent one of those expensive tools that expand the pex? I will be starting on my plumbing next week I hope.

[RSI]

All pex is not expandable. If you use that method, you have to make sure you get the correct pex.

The crimp ring or cinch clamp fittings will work on any brand pex.