Tools we use and the suppliers we choose.

[Weapon_R]

As the topic states I would like to have one thread to discuss where to get tools and supplies. I am in a hurry to start building a gen and of course I am in need of parts.
My first request is where to get a good inexpensive tap and drill set and compatible barb hose fittings (metal and plastic). Interested in 1/2 and 1/4 inch sizes.
To reduce cost maybe 1/2 inch treaded end and 1/2 and 1/4 inch hose end.
Also should I go with tapered taps?
Others may post questions (on the topic) if they wish.
Info needed in a hurry.

[BioFarmer93]

As the topic states I would like to have one thread to discuss where to get tools and supplies. I am in a hurry to start building a gen and of course I am in need of parts.
My first request is where to get a good inexpensive tap and drill set and compatible barb hose fittings (metal and plastic). Interested in 1/2 and 1/4 inch sizes.
To reduce cost maybe 1/2 inch treaded end and 1/2 and 1/4 inch hose end.
Also should I go with tapered taps?
Others may post questions (on the topic) if they wish.
Info needed in a hurry.

where do you live?

[Weapon_R]

where do you live?

I live in Jamaica but I make most of my purchases in the states (online).

[BioFarmer93]

http://www.amazon.com/Irwin-Hanson-Vise-Grip-HAN1904/dp/B000UE1VCM/ref=sr_1_3?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1330304945&sr=1-3
Because 3/8x3/8 is what everyone uses and works fine...

http://www.fastfittings.com/plastic-hose-barb
good prices and fast delivery...

http://thecuttingboardfactory.com/
for HDPE and UHMW (PE) cut to size - good prices

http://www.boltdepot.com/catalog.aspx?gclid=COauiZr_vK4CFVCb7QodY3z_Pw
For S.S. and Brass bolts and nuts

http://www.justliners.com/pondgardepdm.htm
for gaskets - really good prices - get the smallest one (shipping weight)

[aceras624]

hey anyone know where i can get
1. a bag of doritos(cool ranch)
2. a 1/4"x1/4"x1/9" two way valve
3. jean pants size 36x48
4. one crocodile tear
5. 3 identical chimpanzees
6. half of a deck of cards(red OR black only!)
7. a one eyed one horned flying purple people eater
8. an albino crow
9. left handed screw driver
10. and finally a large black asian (blaisian) man with really long red hair and a wicked unibrow

anyone? anyone? ;)

[Weapon_R]

Thanks Bio. Could you also recommend 1/4 and 1/2 inch sizes. Is the tpi important.
My first gen will use 1/2 to 3/4 acrylic for observation purposes. Any links for this?

[BioFarmer93]

WR-
Amazon.com had a surprisingly good selection of drill & tap sets at affordable prices...
I would caution you to go very slow when drilling & tapping acrylic.

[Weapon_R]

Bio you had recommended 3/8" - 18 NPT Taper Tap. I assume the 18 means tpi. Is this the standard and how important is it?

[BioFarmer93]

Bio you had recommended 3/8" - 18 NPT Taper Tap. I assume the 18 means tpi. Is this the standard and how important is it?

I wouldn't go so far as to say "standard" but it is what a great many of us use and have found to be suitable to the task. Yes, tpi is threads per inch. 3/8-18 is a NPT or national pipe thread and it is a tapered tap, rather than a -16 (SAE coarse thread or -24 SAE fine thread), neither of which taper. The taper on NPT threads is in place to help seal the joint from leaks.

[myoldyourgold]

This is a good reference for drill sizes.

http://www.newmantools.com/tapdrill.htm#inchlink

[Madsceintist]

Harbor Freight in store or online .........
Not for someone who's going to use on a daily and laboring basis, but for the projects like these, there great.

[Weapon_R]

Harbor Freight in store or online .........
Not for someone who's going to use on a daily and laboring basis, but for the projects like these, there great.

Bought some stuff from them about 14 or more years ago and the quality was questionable. Still use them to this day.

[Weapon_R]

Where can I get custom cut gaskets and acrylic end plates?

[BALLSCREWPRO]

Where can I get custom cut gaskets and acrylic end plates?

Have you tried Ebay

[Madsceintist]

Looking around at Hobby Lobby for other things and they have some cutting board type plastics near 3/4 inch thick in store. ! ?