What tube bender did you use?

[rv12iS-builder]

Any recommendations for a tubing bender for 3/8-inch fuel lines? Are there any models you'd definitely avoid? Thanks!

 

[bkervaski]

Any recommendations for a tubing bender for 3/8-inch fuel lines? Are there any models you'd definitely avoid? Thanks!

I went through some of the really cheap ones and you can make them work, but this is the one that works best for me - https://www.aircraftspruce.com/catalog/topages/470-fh.php

 

[terrye]

I tried several of the cheaper/combo tools. By far the best tube benders for 1/4" (brake) and 3/8" (fuel) are the Ridgid 400 series instrument tube benders. Fairly pricey, but as usual with tools, you get what you pay for. No regrets on the price and very happy with how my tube bends worked out.

https://www.ridgid.com/ca/en/400-series-instrument-benders

 

[wirejock]

TS Flightlines

I used TS Flightlines for fuel lines. Fit perfect.

I did bend the smaller vent lines. Combination of the bender show in previous post a one of those spring type benders.

 

[gasman]

Here is a tool.... https://www.harborfreight.com/tubing-bender-3755.html?_br_psugg_q=tube+bender that will do the job and provide you value unless you are going to earn a living bending tubing.

Do some practice bends and see where there are scratches and file and sand the bender to eliminate the scratches. I also lined the sliding forming bar with clear shipping tape. The results were prefect bends for $8 and 15 minutes of my time.

 

[TS Flightlines]

For quick and easy prototyping, I still use the Imperial 364 series benders. Yeah, 'slightly' modified but works well. Our original tubes for the RV7 and RV14 fuel lines were done with these to make the prototypes, then we transitioned them to our 3 axis CNC benders for production.

For most builders the 470 triple head bender is good----bending thicker wall stainless is not recommended.

Tom

 

[rv12iS-builder]

Thanks, everyone, for the suggestions!

 

[Northernliving]

Thanks, everyone, for the suggestions!

Get some of these, too.
https://www.amazon.com/Impactspring...keywords=TUBING+BENDER&qid=1622747826&sr=8-14