Plumbing Fittings - Fittings for Form and Function

AN Fittings are readily available for -2 to -32 sizes. For example, a -10 AN line means that is 10/16 inch or 5/8 inch inside diameter.

Be aware that all hose end fittings from different manufacturers look similar, but they are all a little bit different. Fore example, here's a picture of an EARL'S, Russell, and a Goodridge -10 AN hose end (don't worry, I like XRP, too, but didn't have any of their product lying around); don't mix different manufacturer's ends and hose. Ends and hoses are designed to work together, so stick with one manufacturer and you won't have a problem--they all have their specialties in terms of design, weight, and style, so any of the big brands will work well.

When adapting from hard line to AN fittings, you'll need to flair the line to a 37-degree point and install a tube nut...

...tube sleeve and a AN to AN adapter. This connection creates a clean adaptor from the hard line to flexible line.

Another specialty hose is power steering hose. Regular -6 A.N. hose is rated at 1,500 psi max operating pressure. Power steering hose made from -6 A.N. line is designed to take up to 2,250 psi max operating pressure. Due to the high operating pressures of power steering fluid, this hose and it associated fittings are required for the feed lines on steering systems.

Other hose is available from EARL'S besides the standard stainless steel covering. The Pro-Lite 350 hose is covered by a tough abrasion-resistant Nylon sheathing, bonded to the textile inner braid embedded in the synthetic rubber liner. This hose is much lighter then the standard Perform-O-Flex stainless hose. According to EARL'S, replacing the existing steel braided oil, fuel and coolant lines on a Cup car can save as much as 30 lb. Also, the stuff looks cool!

Super Stock hose and hose ends are also available for lower pressure systems (max pressure 250 psi). These hoses and ends are more economical than the braided line and associated ends. The hose is made of synthetic rubber hose, reinforced by braided fabric sheath inside. The hose is easy to cut and assemble and is available with black or blue coverings.