Step 7 · Making Crimp Connections
At each fixture and at the manifold, you will make your connections. Start by cutting the PEX pipe to the desired length with a PEX cutter, ensuring the cut is perfectly square and clean. Slide a copper crimp ring over the end of the pipe. Fully insert the barbed end of the PEX fitting (e.g., a drop-ear elbow for a shower head or an angle stop for a sink) into the pipe until it seats against the shoulder of the fitting. Position the copper crimp ring so it is 1/8 to 1/4 inch from the end of the pipe, covering the barbed section. Squeeze the handles of the PEX crimp tool completely to compress the ring. Finally, use a go/no-go gauge to verify the crimp's diameter; the 'go' slot should fit over the ring, but the 'no-go' slot should not.