He’s an interesting question….one I’ve been living with for a long time and tonight got so fed up with the problem I decided to ask others…
Does anyone else have problems with their copper tube cutters walking down the pipe in spiral fashion as you turn the cutter? I buy new cutters and they work great for a while then bam, it starts walking down the pipe. Of course I’ve replaced the cutting wheel with a new one and it almost invariably still walks with a new blade.
Am I buying el cheapo cutters. Seems the old $10 jobbies are no different than those that cost $25 and $30, or is this really a case of getting what I’m paying for and would do better to buy a top of the line model like Rigid?
Thanks
Replies
It drives me nuts too. I just go back and forth a bit more than one revolution. I also don't do much plumbing as a carpenter.
I've got a couple of Rigid cutters and as usual, you get what you pay for. Surprise!
But if your El Cheapo won't track, just go back and forth instead of twisting it round and round.
Or go buy a Rigid and no more problem.
Joe H
I agree with Joe H.
I have a Rigid and everyone borrows it. I also have one made by General and it performs as well. (I did inherit the General from my Godfather.)
Don't throw good money after bad.
Just my 2 cents.
Len
Yeah, Rigid cutters will typically do a lot better than no-name ones. But I've seen an occasional Rigid tubing cutter develop that problem. Sometimes, it works fine in one direction (usually the leftys' direction) but walks in the other direction.
I often say that life is too short for Chinese (or cast iron) pipe wrenchs. Rigid brand aluminium handles for me. Likewise with cutters.
David Thomas Overlooking Cook Inlet in Kenai, Alaska
Are the rigid plumbing tools made by the same people as the rigid power tools, Emerson ?
Never be afraid to try something new. Remember, amateurs built the ark, Professionals build the Titanic.
Yep.
Emerson is a Fortune 50 company and makes lots of different products. Most of what they make is OEM or industrial.
But they own Insinkator, White-Rogers, Closet Maid, StackaShelf, Knaack, Lousiville Ladder, and Ridge Tools (Ridgit)
The also make a number of OEM parts such as electric motors. Both NEMA and dedicated appliance motors, appliance controllers, soleniod valves, etc.
Thanks BillNever be afraid to try something new. Remember, amateurs built the ark, Professionals build the Titanic.
Yepper
I have two Imperials, had them so long I can't remember where I got them or how much they cost; but, I have a large one (says "adjust-o-matic" on it) and a small one (says "big-imp" on it) and they continue to work just fine..
Phill Giles
The Unionville Woodwright
Unionville, Ontario
The cutting wheel getting dull will also cause it to "thread" down the pipe. I have always used Rigid also but a few months ago I bought a small cutter made by Malco and actually like it a lot better. Works smoother and has a better feel. Guess that would be subjective but it is a nice quality piece. DanT
Phill, notice one thing... everyone here (yourself included) that is saying a cheaper brand works fine is basing their comments on their experience with an OLDER tool. Interesting huh?
Which "cheaper" brand would you be refering to ? I just did a quick web search and discovered that the Ridgid and Imperial cutters are about the same price (on a feature-balanced view)..
Phill Giles
The Unionville Woodwright
Unionville, Ontario
Imperials I see on the hardware store shelves are cheap and crappy.
Then it's true, they don't make them like they used to..
Phill Giles
The Unionville Woodwright
Unionville, Ontario
I'd kill you before I loaned you my Ridgid! LOL My apprentice isn't even allowed to use it. I bought his 2 for his own and I don't use his. Anal? Yep. My right to be.
I have found that when I get the spiral it has been a matter of me being too tight on the first pass. So what I do is (with either the cheap or expensive cutters) start with a really light one or two passes until the pipe is slightly scored then I crank up the juice. Seems to work every time.
Good luck
Rob Kress
Thanks for the info. Glad to see I ain't the only one that has this problem a lot. As common as it seems you'd think the tool makers would build a better mousetrap with a better guarantee of continued performance.
Since the "get what you pay for" adage was expressed a good bit here I think I'll suck up the cost and get a Rigid and give it a whirl. Somehow I think I'll stay smiling after every use. And oh, I did try the "light" first pass then crank it. I've tried that for a number of jobs and well....I still had the problem.
Fireman,
when I go to buy a new cutter (any brand ...the best I can find) I carry a scrap of 1/2" with me. at the store, before I buy, I',, take the cutter and ABUSE it on the scrap pipe, then i'll use it normally on same scrap. I reject all cheap cutters and about 1/2 rigids with this test. I can't afford to ease into a cut, not that I abuse the cutter in normal use, just can't take the time to baby it.
Go to a big plumbing supply house and buy a good'un, one you can pass to your kids.
SamT
Sam.....I agree..go to a big "plumbing supply house" and buy the best one you can. I mean after all how expensive is it? Forget HD.....they only carry baby stuff for the most part.
Anyone know where you can get a good one online?
a
In his first interview since the stroke, Ram Dass, 66, spoke with great difficulty about how his brush with death has changed his ideas about aging, and how the recent loss of two old friends, Timothy Leary and Allen Ginsberg, has convinced him that now, more than ever, is the time to ``Be Here Now.''
http://CLIFFORDRENOVATIONS.COM
Rob,
This is exactly what I have discovered after many hours cutting pipe. Just get the pipe scored w/ light pressure then increase the pressure and cut away. This method has never failed me.
dlb
.
Py
I aint no plumber but I sure do a whole lot of plumbing none the less, cause I'm too cheap to pay doctors prices to solder a joint.
The trick or should I say.....the way, to cut a copper pipe is to swivel the cutter forward then backward. Keeps the cutter in place and in line. I have never had a problem if I do it in this fashon..ever.
I use cheap cutters as well as high priced ones and they all work the same for me.
Be cut
Namaste
andy
In his first interview since the stroke, Ram Dass, 66, spoke with great difficulty about how his brush with death has changed his ideas about aging, and how the recent loss of two old friends, Timothy Leary and Allen Ginsberg, has convinced him that now, more than ever, is the time to ``Be Here Now.''
http://CLIFFORDRENOVATIONS.COM
There are a number of factors involved here.
When I was 22 I was taking my Journeyman test. The practical part requires precision cutting and assembly of copper pipe. You have 2 hours to build this precision project. I was so nervous I "threaded" copper pipe for 1 1/2 hours. I was using my everyday Ridgid quick acting 151 cutters. Finally the inspector (who knew me and my skills) came over and told me lay down my tools. He took me outside and got me to run through some relaxation techniques. Cut me loose again. I completed the project in 20 minutes. Never "threaded" one more cut. By all accounts I had the best project they had seen in a long time. I learned some good stuff that day!
So until it becomes as natural as breathing I suggest you focus on each cut. Watch the cutter. Follow some of the other tips in this thread. Happy cutting.
FWIW, I do a fair amount of pipe cutting(copper, aluminum, thin steel) and I've got 2 cheap cutters. No tracking problems on either, ever.
I think it's in the technique: Light 1,2 pass back and forth, almost never go round and round. The light first passes cut a groove to guide the blade so when you crank down on it and the blade deflects it doesn't walk. And the blade will deflect and walk.
Both of these cutters are a coupla years old, but original blades. I'm sure lighter passes in general help blade life.
Mike
yeah... but I can't screw around with that. It's gotta work and fast.
If ya go back then forth it really cant walk....simple as that I think.
works for me in theory as well as in the field.
If you keep turning the cutter in the same direction and it walks all you'll be doing is making a 3/4" hollow screw.
In his first interview since the stroke, Ram Dass, 66, spoke with great difficulty about how his brush with death has changed his ideas about aging, and how the recent loss of two old friends, Timothy Leary and Allen Ginsberg, has convinced him that now, more than ever, is the time to ``Be Here Now.''
http://CLIFFORDRENOVATIONS.COM
I use a dry cut saw a lot these days.
But I can't take the time to go back and forth. I need it cut and NOW. That is why I buy Ridgid or Reed cutters and replace them every year. I can't babysit a cutters or a cut.
I put more wear and tear on my cutters in 1 month than everyone who has posted on this thread together do in a year.
Mu only point is this... my needs and demands are far different that yours. Just a fact of life.
Nothing personal with anybody. Just life.
I put more wear and tear on my cutters in 1 month than everyone who has posted on this thread together do in a year.
Mu only point is this... my needs and demands are far different that yours. Just a fact of life.
Nothing personal with anybody. Just life.
Geeez.....I really doubt that!
You throwing out tools maybe you should donate them to the VoTec Center or apprentices. A regular cleaning, some grease and a new wheel will go a long way.
By the time I replace all the worn parts I am almost at the cost of a new cutters. I keep them oiled, etc. But I wear pins and remember I use the 151 model which is alot more finicky than some of the others.
Why the thunder would I donate a semi-worn out tool to the votec or to my apprentice? First of all out local vo-tech does not have a plumbing class. And my apprentice gets brand new tools paid for by our customers!
Please notice who all had posted when I wrote that. Now just why would you doubt that I as a plumbing and heating professional use my copper tubing cutters far more than woodworkers? Come on!
Ya mean those are for copper? No wonder it takes me so long to cut clothes rods with one!?!?!?
I use mine for cutting cast iron. but I can't figure out why it takes me so long to cut copper now.
Awfully big horn you're tooting.
Yesterday I couldn't even spell plumber, today I are one.
I figured soething like that was bugging you. Let me point out that at the time I made that post all the other posters were woodwokers, etc.
Some were claiming that the cheaper models seemed to work as good as Ridgids. I was simply pointing out that I disagreed based on the level of usage I as a plumbing ad heating professional gave this tool.
Obviously someone who uses a certain tool hard and on a daily basis has a better understanding of what a quality tool is than someone who uses it occasionally. I was pointing out the basis for my claims. I also made a point of saying why I said all that.
Get over it pal.
Here's a tip... this board is big enough for both of us. No point in letting egos get in the way of us having a good time. You give good advice for the most part and I think I do the same. I expected your ego would get offended by me sooner or later here on BT. Because of that I have tried really hard to not say anything to you that would offend your ego. I am not slamming you. Just letting you know I expected this.
All I have to say is take a chill pill and we'll get along fine. I see no reason not to.
Edited 5/30/2003 10:12:08 AM ET by Wet Head Warrior
Sometimes it's not the package, but the delivery.
Yesterday I couldn't even spell plumber, today I are one.
understood. I guess the package was delivered differently than it was meant to be.
Alrighty then. Speed is relative. How much time does it take to do it twice?
Mike
Has anyone tried that "automatic" cutter that Ridgid has? I guess the cutting or holding wheel is spring-loaded?
Regards,
Tim
tried it. seemed gimmicky to me. I passed on it. I am also a tool addict so...
Ya gotta remember that cutters need attention. They get water, saw dust, dirt and even flux in them. Try taking them apart once in awhile, clean them with WD40 and put some faucet grease on the pins.
Yesterday I couldn't even spell plumber, today I are one.
Taint the cutter atall.
You got yerself summa dat newfangled spiral clad copper tubing.
Yer gunna have to use a hacksaw, bud.
Sorry.
That's them danged furriners fer ya. Labor is cheap over there, ya know. They don't care if the FNG takes a coupla days cuttin the pipes with a hacksaw. His coupla days costs less than yer hour...
Dangit.
A good heart embiggins even the smallest person.
Quittin' Time
I've used the cheeper models once or twice. You've tried the rest now try the best Rigid is the only way to go. It's worth a little extra. Would you use a Kmart miter saw to cut a good miter?
Men do not quit playing because they grow old; they grow old because they quit playing! Holmes Sr. Oliver Wendell
I got tired of cheap cutters and reaching for different tools to cut different pipe so I bought a rigid # 132. It cuts from 1/4" to 2 5/8" and it's been in use for thirty years. Once you buy a good tool you need to maintaine them and not loose them. Maybe I'm selfish but I still have my tool.
This week I was putting locksets into premortised doors but my boss pulled me off a bunch of times to do other punchlist stuff. Thursday he wanted to do the last 5 or so and asked to use my wood 1"chisel because he ,"didn't want to dig his out". I told him no and he went and got his. I keep my chisels literaly razor sharp and he doesn't know where his is? Maybe I'm wrong here.
>Maybe I'm wrong here.<
Maybe yer looking for a new boss and don't know it yet.
; )
A good heart embiggins even the smallest person.
Quittin' Time
Ya the relationship is strained. He's going through some hard times. Thursday There was a little problem so I asked if I should fix it. The owner was involved so my boss started badmouthing him to me with the owner overhearing it right behind him. Friday we packed up the co. stuff and left with bad feelings. He's badmouthing just about everyone. The guys delivering the mattresses for crying outloud.
Get yourself a Ridgid #15 and #104 tubing cutters.
Very well made and nice looking to boot.
I've yet to buy the Rigid models, will do so soon enough. But while having this frustration of the "walking" cutter, I decided to experiment even more. I decided to run the cutter BACKWARDS, not clockwise. I couldn't believe it...I've cut about 20 joints in the last 2 days and they all were perfect cuts with no walking simply by going counterclockwise....go figure...and it's an el-cheapo cutter showing no signs of wanting to quit on me yet.
Once did a small repair with a POS cutter. It was what was on hand for tools so I had to make do. Could barely keep it in state it walked so much after much frustration I gave it a close look and found that the cheap zinc casting had a large burr that was causing the cutter to sit slightly canted on the pipe. A bit of work with a file allowed the cutter to sit more squarely and I was able to finish the remaining half dozen cuts without a problem. Now if I could just solder joints so they wouldn't leak... I eventually almost got the hang of it but that's another story.
soldering is obsolete! actually I don't have the new tool yet but there is a better way of joining copper available. lots of bucks for the tool though.
re - But while having this frustration of the "walking" cutter, I decided to experiment even more. I decided to run the cutter BACKWARDS,
-------
I have two inexpensive cutters that has worked fine and continue to do so - never had a wandering problem.
However, the Ridgids make the job a bit easier and far more pleasant because of the sharper/harder cutting wheels and mechanisms with tighter tolerances.
And the little #104 is a very nifty item to add to the arsenal.
It is definitely worth the money spent.
I've often wondered if there is such thing as a correct direction to turn the cutters - the other day I had to turn the #104 both directions about 2/3 round at a time because of space limitations, but this was for cutting out a section and it was not to be sweated back together afterwards.
best models for the occasional user! I have the 104 and the 101 in my tool bucket along with a 151. It is a bit trickier to use but sure speds things up. I still have my 15 I got when I was 16 years old but never used it that much.
Huh ?
101 ? 151 ? I'm curious.
Gotta see what these do - I'll check their web site.
I got mine at the local plumbing supply house I frequent, but maybe Home Dump stocks them also.
My copper sweating activity comes along occasionally but in good doses each time.
Last weekend I lost a connection while sweating in the last section at my folks' house for a frost proof hose bib installation in a tight location. Major bummer - have all the pieces laid out for another attempt with a better sweating sequence.
Thanks for mentioning the 101 and 151....
if you can try to solder the joint into the hose bibb outside first, then stick it in and sweat the rest.
Thanks for the tip.
I sweated together the assembly near the hosebib end and screwed them together and inserted into the wall and was trying to sweat the last section (a 45 deg elbow) to finish the job.
Should've done both sides of the elbow (low to high) at the same time instead of pre-sweating/assembling one side ahead of time.
Luckily I installed a ball valve so it's no big deal redoing but a bit frustrating after getting a Michelangelo neck.
101 is larger version of the 104
151 is quick acting. lots faster but wears out quicker under extremely heavy usage.