using old pipe threader do my threads have problems

[Rugar]

Using an old (50 +) Ridgid No 65-R pipe threader looks good and functions well. My threads get fairly tight after I screw two to three threads in. I only tried to thread a tee on by hand while in a vice. Is this a problem or not. Do I need to re run the threads, do I need new cutters or no problem.

 

[BrownianHeatingTech]

How deep are you threading the pipe? (ie, how long is the threaded portion)

Also, check the threads closely - the cutters can get out of alignment, or wear down and need replacement.

Joe

 

[Rugar]

I went an inch or so. Probably should have went a little further. I have no Idea how to align them or if I can even find new cutters. It's a set of four. It's an adjustable threader that handles 1-2 inch.

 

[Plumbit]

I Don't know the model number of the adjustable threader I use but if yours will go from 1" to 2" then it may be the same. If so then you set up the threader in two spots and on the guides there is mark which will give you a standard thread, as the die's get worn you can compendsate a little by starting before or after the mark. I tried to post pic's of my threader key points. but I can figure how. :-S

 

[Rugar]

I didn't notice the mark. I need to look it over a little closer. Pics would be great. The threader is my grandfathers used years ago. To bad he didn't get the chance to teach me how to use it.

 

[Plumbit]

I'll try later today Bill

 

[Dave T]

Plumbit,
I use photoshop,save a pic for the web,and size is the kicker I adjust the size to 450 KB or less and it works every time then browse and select the pic I want to show,and preview post to upload pics,then the program asks me if I want to save the changes and I choose no..If this is confusing look at the the thread Webmaster posted at the top of the home page (how to post pics on the web) good luck..Dave

 

[LeonMSPT]

They're tapered, obviously, so if you don't turn enough thread onto the male, it won't screw "all the way" into the female side. Decent guide is to turn at least the width of the pipe. How big is the pipe you're threading?

 

[Plumbit]

Well heres a try at embeding pics. After you lock your pipe in the vice and set your threader to corrct size, close die with lever and place on pipe clamp side first, center against end of pipe. Clamp setscrew and ratchet til it passes end of guides, it will get easy or feel loose, open die's with lever and ratchet off. Use cutting oil, use more cutting oil, ( oil cools and lubes the threader) Warning pipe and chips are hot and sharp. Catch waste oil and chips in bucket and dont. track oil and chips onto carpet or floor. Ridgid sells a spray can of cutting oil that I used on my own pipe threading and is Really good! Take turns with your arms or you'll finish looking like a 300 pound Gorilla with man boobs. 1 last thing try to remove inside burr on pipe with a pipe ream or a half round file. ( helps with turbulance and flow) Good Luck !

 

[Plumbit]

Well welll well who sez you can't teach a old dog new tricks I just have to adjust the lenth or height a little bit and I'll have it

 

[Rugar]

Your threader is like mine only with a few slight differences. Probably just the year made. I finally found all the marks you said and it does back off when you reach full thread. Next you have to turn the lever from close to open and ratchet it backwards to reset it. My threads work but they are quite tight and a few of the tops of the threads are broken off. Only thing I can figure out is that the dies are worn some. I ordered a new set of 38100 dies for $85 plus shipping.
THanks for all your help.
John

 

[Chris S]

John-
Chuck a store bought nipple to compare to, that's how we check them, and or set new cutters.

Chris

 

[Plumbit]

The new die's are numbered 1,2,3,4 Just replace in same order. I seem to remember that the die's are self aligning, and remenber OIL,OIL,OIL

 

[Rugar]

I'm cutting the full length that the cutter suggests to make 1 1/4-1 1/2. Is it bad if I can only get half of that threaded when I screw it together on my project. Useing a 24 in pipe wrench and 3-4 wraps of teflon tape.

 

[Dune]

Are you using thin teflon tape or the super thick stuff? Count the threads you are making, you want between nine and eleven threads.

 

[Couderay80]

Threads: When you cut threads you want to make sure they are sharp,with no knicks or flat spots. The threads you cut are only as good as you or your device make em. The fitting should go on 3 to 5 complete turns (BY HAND)4 being what I shoot for. This is done dry, using no dope or tape. Next back off the fitting and spread dope on male threads (the pipe or nipple) covering all the threads do not use excess as it does no good. Put a very small dab on the female threads (fitting) and screw the two together by hand then using an 18" pipe wrench on 1-1/4" to 1-1/2" fittings and or pipe. Two to three more turns is all you should need past hand tight. I've used this method for over 20 years as a pipefitter with very good results. Ebay is a great source for dies and that 65R is an awesome threading device and with care can last a lifetime. The dope of choice for me is rector seal#5. Any other questions E-mail me. Joe.