Introduction
The Orbit 67498 Drip-Lock End-Cap is designed to securely terminate 1/2-inch drip distribution or emitter tubing in your irrigation system. This fitting ensures a watertight seal at the end of a drip line, preventing water loss and maintaining system pressure. Its innovative Drip-Lock design allows for easy, tool-free installation and removal, making it a reliable component for various landscape designs.
Image: The Orbit 67498 1/2" Drip-Lock Drip Irrigation End-Cap, a black plastic fitting designed to seal the end of 1/2-inch drip tubing.
Product Features
- Secure Tubing Termination: Designed to seal the end of 1/2-inch drip distribution or emitter tubing.
- Wide Compatibility: Fits 1/2-inch tubing sizes ranging from .630-inch to .700-inch, compatible with Orbit, Hydro-Rain, and other major brands.
- Watertight Seal: Features stainless steel teeth for a secure grip and a special O-ring that creates a reliable, rotatable, and watertight seal.
- Easy Installation & Removal: Push-fit design allows for quick, tool-free connection. A built-in removal collar facilitates easy reconfiguration and reuse.
- Durable Construction: Made from plastic with stainless steel components for outdoor irrigation use.
- Cold Water Application: Suitable for outdoor irrigation systems using cold water only.
Setup and Installation
Proper installation ensures a leak-free and efficient drip irrigation system. Follow these steps to install the Drip-Lock End-Cap:
- Prepare Tubing: Ensure the end of your 1/2-inch drip tubing is cut cleanly and straight. Use a tubing cutter for best results to avoid jagged edges that could compromise the seal.
- Insert Tubing: Firmly push the prepared end of the 1/2-inch drip tubing into the Drip-Lock End-Cap. Push until the tubing is fully seated and you feel a secure connection. The stainless steel teeth will grip the tubing, and the O-ring will form a watertight seal.
- Verify Connection: Gently pull on the tubing to ensure it is securely locked in place. The connection should be firm and not easily dislodged.
Image: A person using a specialized tool to cut drip irrigation tubing, demonstrating the importance of a clean, straight cut for proper fitting installation.
Important: This product is designed for use with cold water only in outdoor irrigation applications.
Functionality and Usage
The Orbit 67498 Drip-Lock End-Cap serves as a terminal point for your 1/2-inch drip irrigation lines. Once installed, it effectively seals the end of the tubing, preventing water from flowing out and ensuring that water is directed through emitters or other components further along the line. Its rotatable design allows for minor adjustments to the tubing direction even after installation, without compromising the seal.
Image: A cutaway illustration of a Drip-Lock fitting, highlighting the internal stainless steel teeth and O-ring mechanism that secure the tubing and create a watertight seal.
Maintenance
Minimal maintenance is required for the Drip-Lock End-Cap, but adhering to these guidelines can extend the life of your irrigation system:
- Seasonal Disassembly: For compact winter storage or system reconfiguration, the built-in removal collar allows for easy disassembly. Simply pull back the collar and gently remove the tubing.
- Leak Inspection: Periodically inspect the end-cap and surrounding tubing for any signs of leaks. Address any leaks promptly to conserve water and maintain system efficiency.
- System Filtration: For optimal drip zone performance and to prevent clogging of emitters and fittings, ensure your irrigation system includes an appropriate filter and pressure regulator.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Drip-Lock End-Cap, consider the following:
- Leakage at Connection:
- Ensure the tubing end was cut cleanly and is free of debris.
- Verify the tubing is fully inserted into the end-cap. Push firmly until it cannot go further.
- Check the tubing for any damage (cracks, kinks) near the connection point.
- Confirm the tubing diameter is within the compatible range (.630-inch to .700-inch).
- Difficulty Inserting Tubing:
- Ensure the tubing end is not flared or deformed. Recut if necessary.
- Confirm the tubing diameter is compatible.
- A small amount of water on the tubing end can sometimes aid insertion.
- Difficulty Removing Tubing:
- Pull back the built-in removal collar firmly while simultaneously pulling the tubing out.
- Avoid twisting the tubing excessively during removal, as this can damage the internal grip.
Specifications
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | 67498 |
| Product Type | Drip-Lock End-Cap |
| Tubing Compatibility | 1/2-inch drip distribution or emitter tubing (.630-inch to .700-inch) |
| Material | Plastic, Stainless Steel (teeth) |
| Color | Black |
| Approximate Dimensions (L x W x H) | 2 x 1.75 x 1.75 inches (per unit) |
| Application | Outdoor irrigation, cold water only |
Warranty and Support
For specific warranty information regarding the Orbit 67498 Drip-Lock End-Cap, please refer to the product packaging or visit the official Orbit website. Support resources, including additional product guides and contact information, can also be found on the manufacturer's website or through your product retailer.
