Heatmax II hot air start-off adapter connection help

[Mrpelletburner]

So the manual states to connect 6” duct to the 6-10 start-off adapters, connected to the plenum.

Sounds straight forward right? However the OD of the start-off adapters measure ~5.5” and nowhere close to 6” diameter.

If you try to attach a 6” elbow or straight duct, the connection is a loose fit.

What am I missing? Shouldn’t the connection be snug?

 

[Mojappa]

I used male to male pieces as starters since they slipped over the starters that were supplied tighter. Could also crimp the female end down to slip tighter over the starters.

 

[Gbawol42]

Omg this frustrated me when I was installing as well. Didn't make any sense why they were 5.5". I ended up installing the male ends over those as it was much tighter then the proper female, and taping the seams really good. The pic explains it a little better.

 

[brenndatomu]

Sounds this warrants a call or email to SBI

 

[Case1030]

Sounds this warrants a call or email to SBI

That's how mine is aswell. Have no clue why they manufacture them that way.

 

[Mrpelletburner]

Well, I called SBI... They stated that this is a common question.

Their suggestion is to use sheet metal screws and hi-temp silicone.

I found using a crimp tool, the connection becomes snug.

I really wish the connections were “true” 6” connections.

 

[brenndatomu]

Well I called SBI... They stated that this is a common question.

Their suggestion is to use sheet metal screws and hi-temp silicone. [emoji2369]

I found using a crimp tool, the connection becomes snug.

Really wish the connections were “true” 6” connections.

Well that's a crappy answer...

 

[Gearhead660]

Omg this frustrated me when I was installing as well. Didn't make any sense why they were 5.5". I ended up installing the male ends over those as it was much tighter then the proper female, and taping the seams really good. The pic explains it a little better.

That pic looks just like mine! I did the aluminum duct tape as well. Was contemplating making holes a true 6" and getting new start offs...maybe a summer project.

 

[Gbawol42]

Well, I called SBI... They stated that this is a common question.

Their suggestion is to use sheet metal screws and hi-temp silicone.

I found using a crimp tool, the connection becomes snug.

I really wish the connections were “true” 6” connections.

Wow! That honestly is a shocking answer. If they know of this issue all they need to do is change the starting connections to 6". Maybe supply an adapter or something for ones that are already made.

That answer is just plain dissapointing.

 

[Mrpelletburner]

Using a crimp tool, I can achieve a tight fit.