u/MaterialeMax

Just got this tubing bender kit to work on some refrigeration lines. It comes with the lever bender (red handle), a set of 7 black bending dies for various tube ODs (looks like 1/4" up to 3/4"), a compact pipe cutter, and a deburring/reaming tool.

I’ve only ever used spring benders before, so a lever system is completely new to me. What are the biggest rookie mistakes with these tools?

Specifically:

1. When bending 3/8" copper, is it better to do a 90° bend in one smooth pull, or should I go step-by-step?
2. Any advice on preventing the rollers or dies from scratching the copper surface? Should I put a tiny bit of oil on the track?

Appreciate any insights from the HVAC pros here! Planning to practice on scrap copper first before touching the real lines. 🤙

Picked this up to practice flaring copper lines at home before touching my real unit. It comes with the tube cutter, reamer, flaring tool, and the flaring clamps. Planning to mess around with some scrap copper first before I try it on the actual refrigerant lines.

For anyone who has used similar entry-level sets: can this actually make a decent 45-degree flare for 1/4" to 5/8" copper tubing without leaking? I've heard alignment is everything with these clamps.

Any beginner tips for getting a solid, leak-proof seal when using this specific type of tool? Also, is it a good idea to put a drop of refrigerant oil on the flaring cone to prevent galling the copper?

Thanks in advance for any advice!