E-Z Clip System

The E-Z Clip system is well ... easy to use. For a hose crimper, all you need is the specially designed pliers, Hi-Line part # FT1357. This small hand plier along with the hose, cage nipple and clips combine to deliver easy to put together assemblies that meet SAE J2064. The hose can even be cut with our hand tube cutter, T-135.

Step 1: Cut the hose.

Cut the hose to proper length with an appropriate cutting tool. The Eaton hand-held hose cutter has been specifically designed for cutting all non-wire reinforced hose, such as GH134 multi-refrigerant hose. Be sure the cut is made square to the hose length.

Step 2: Slip on two clips.

Install two proper-sized clips onto the cut end of the hose. Orientation of the clips does not affect the performance of the connection. However, for ease of assembly Eaton recommends both clips have the same orientation.

Step 3: Oil the nipple.

Lubricate the nipple with a generous amount of the refrigeration or A/C system’s compressor lubricating oil. This MUST be done to lower the force of nipple insertion.

Step 4: Insert the nipple into the hose.

To ensure that the nipple is fully inserted, check the gap between the cut end of the hose and the shoulder on the nipple. Care should be taken to avoid kinking or other damage to the hose during nipple insertion. NOTE: Be sure to wipe excess oil from the nipple and hose.

Step 5: Snap on the cage.

Snap the cage into the groove on the nipple. The arms should extend over the hose length. When the cage has been correctly installed in the cage groove, the cage will be able to rotate in the groove. This step MUST be performed to ensure:

  1. The clips will be located over the O-Rings on the nipple.
  2. The connection will be compatible with the connection’s pressure rating.

Step 6: Slide the clips.

Slide the clips over the cage arms and into the channels on each arm.

Step 7: Close the Clips.

Use the pliers to close the clips. The pliers should be positioned squarely on the clip connection points and should remain square during the closing of the clip.

The nose of the pliers should be firmly seated under the assembly bump and lock latch. For easiest assembly, the clasp should be closed between the cage arms.

If the pliers are not kept square during closing of the clip, the clasp may have an offset. Use the pliers to correct the clasp alignment. E-Z Clip components should not be reused.