I'm using a flaring tool for the first time on my fuel tank vent line and I don't like the results. After eight attempts with the same results I'm getting pretty frustrated. I'm using a new Ridgid Model 377 flaring tool. The instructions say "Once the clutch releases, turn the handle at least two more full rotations to ensure a uniform, smooth flare surface". I've tried that along with no additional turns and 4-5 additional turns. Same results. The flare surface looks fine to me. If you look at it from the end, it looks great. It's the uneven sides of the flare that aren't right.
The only thing I can think of is the piece of scrap tubing I'm using to practice these flares on was used to practice bending the tube as well. Some parts of it have been bent then straightened then bent again. Could that have caused the walls of the tubing to be uneven in some places leading to the uneven flares?
Before I flare, I cut the tube with a Ridgid tube cutter. When using the cutter I gently advance the knob after every couple of rotations to minimize deforming the wall of the tubing while cutting. I then use a very small round file to gently debur the inside of the tube. After that I use a small flat file to smooth the end of the tube. Finally, I use a purple Scotchbrite pad to debur.
Any ideas as to what I'm doing wrong?
The only thing I can think of is the piece of scrap tubing I'm using to practice these flares on was used to practice bending the tube as well. Some parts of it have been bent then straightened then bent again. Could that have caused the walls of the tubing to be uneven in some places leading to the uneven flares?
Before I flare, I cut the tube with a Ridgid tube cutter. When using the cutter I gently advance the knob after every couple of rotations to minimize deforming the wall of the tubing while cutting. I then use a very small round file to gently debur the inside of the tube. After that I use a small flat file to smooth the end of the tube. Finally, I use a purple Scotchbrite pad to debur.
Any ideas as to what I'm doing wrong?
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