Hi, new member here, I've just completed installation of a Groco Model K, with new hoses. In testing the installation, I find there is a persistent leak at the head-to-hose exit connection. I have tried tightening the connection but the leak persisted. Based on Peggie Hall's advice, (seen on another thread) I backed off on the tightness to protect the washer, and am now looking for ideas on how to remedy the problem.
FYI the Model K connection is straight, i.e. a flanged 1 1/2" bronze fitting/hose barb is fastened to the mating flange on the head. There are 2 bolts, at 9:00 and 3:00 on the clock face that are used to make the connection. While this arrangement is fine in securing the connection against any horizontal bending force, I wonder whether it is adequate to do the same for any vertical bending force. Ideally the connection would feature 3 bolts that would enable the clamping compression to be distributed around the circumference of the flanges. However, the 2-bolt design has been around for decades, so presumably it has been adequate.
Also FYI, I used water at near-boiling temperature to enable hose-to-barb fitting. I've since read that this temperature may be too extreme, but everything is in place so we'll see about that.
Thanks for any advice.
FYI the Model K connection is straight, i.e. a flanged 1 1/2" bronze fitting/hose barb is fastened to the mating flange on the head. There are 2 bolts, at 9:00 and 3:00 on the clock face that are used to make the connection. While this arrangement is fine in securing the connection against any horizontal bending force, I wonder whether it is adequate to do the same for any vertical bending force. Ideally the connection would feature 3 bolts that would enable the clamping compression to be distributed around the circumference of the flanges. However, the 2-bolt design has been around for decades, so presumably it has been adequate.
Also FYI, I used water at near-boiling temperature to enable hose-to-barb fitting. I've since read that this temperature may be too extreme, but everything is in place so we'll see about that.
Thanks for any advice.