Vivaldi Hose Connection / Filter

Post by **Paulgab** » Tue Jan 29, 2008 3:27 am

After much debate (see Mini Forum), it's looking like I'm going to plump for a 'standard' Vivaldi II with Flojet and Shurflo.
Could anybody tell me what size thread is on the hose supplied with the machine? Also, if I'm using bottled water, would I need to use a filter and / or softener?

Chers,
Paul

Post by **jmcphail** » Tue Jan 29, 2008 8:52 am

Good morning,

My braided connection hose came with an L-shaped tube and ball connector on the end that connects with the machine, and a similar ball connector on the other ( but no L-shaped tube ), with a 3/8" adapter on the non-machine end.

When I ordered the machine ( on the phone ) I specified 3/8" fittings when asked, so I assume they attach whatever size adapter to the braided hose that you ask for.

The fourth post in this thread - wforum/viewtopic.php?t=20&highlight=hig ... +ptfe+hose - describes it better than I can. But I think if you ask for 3/8" or 1/4" they'll put the correct adapter on for you. There is valuable information in that thread concerning plumbing vs. instrument threading as well.

Another small thing, I asked them to supply my machine configured for 15A operation, but with a 15A - 20A adapter cable instead of chopping the cable. I just preferred to get the cable in original condition and use the adapter, you might like something different.

I've also discovered that the John Guest fittings work very well, are easy to use, and interoperate with Watts fittings available at Home Depot.

I don't know the answer to your filter/softener question, but I assume you don't need a softener; it must depend on the hardness of the water you use. Anyone?

Post by **JohnB** » Tue Jan 29, 2008 10:24 am

From my testing most bottled water is pretty soft but you will want to test yours to make sure it is 3g/50ppm or less. The adaptor, either 1/4" or 3/8", that comes on your braided hose is a John Guest fitting. If you use the JG valves, fittings & tubing you will find the install goes pretty quickly.

Post by **Paulgab** » Tue Jan 29, 2008 2:50 pm

Thanks for that. :D

Post by **Paulgab** » Wed Jan 30, 2008 4:17 pm

I'd read in a couple of places that a pressure regulator wasn't needed when using the flojet, but I've just read on the flojet site that the pumps max pressure is 40PSI. Doen't this mean that the pressure would need regulating as I've also read that the Vivs pressure should be 25-30PSI?

Post by **Niko** » Wed Jan 30, 2008 6:35 pm

Not necessarily...
the machine can operate on pressures up to 70psi (or so). You probably will want to make a couple of adjustments to keep the expansion valve from leaking and maybe adjust the pump pressure slightly if it gets a little too high, etc..
I think you may be all right going with the current settings since 40psi isn't extraordinarily high, just keep an eye in the drip tray if the valve leaks a little too much for your liking.

Post by **Paulgab** » Thu Jan 31, 2008 5:19 am

That's good. Presumably, if there is any water leakage at the machine, I can just fit a basic John Guest valve to restrict the flow until leaking stops?

Post by **JohnB** » Thu Jan 31, 2008 10:57 am

I doubt you will see problems at 40psi but you can always splice in a pressure regulator later if you think its needed. CC sells them with the JG fittings attached so the 3/8 tubing will plug right in.

Post by **Niko** » Thu Jan 31, 2008 12:34 pm

Paulgab wrote:That's good. Presumably, if there is any water leakage at the machine, I can just fit a basic John Guest valve to restrict the flow until leaking stops?

Honestly, I think the machine will be just fine...mine actually leaks little drops at a time that I never bothered to adjust (only out of laziness) and I like to leave things alone lately.

Post by **Paulgab** » Thu Jan 31, 2008 2:02 pm

Thanks all. I just need to get my wallet out!

Post by **Niko** » Thu Jan 31, 2008 2:37 pm

I only accept 50's or 100's...

Post by **Paulgab** » Sat Feb 02, 2008 5:51 am

I hope that's cents and not dollars