Connector Tube Question

jcraigie · Post by **jcraigie** » Fri Oct 07, 2011 12:19 pm

I need to get a new connector tube (one of mine is bent).

I was going to order one for $11.45 (#514439) and then I saw that I can get a pair of 5ft connector tubes for $48.54 (#521942).

Does anyone have any input on the longer tubes vs. the shorter ones. I'm thinking that one 5ft tube will be more solid/stable than two short ones. Am I correct on this?

dusty · Post by **dusty** » Fri Oct 07, 2011 4:42 pm

jcraigie wrote:I need to get a new connector tube (one of mine is bent).

I was going to order one for $11.45 (#514439) and then I saw that I can get a pair of 5ft connector tubes for $48.54 (#521942).

Does anyone have any input on the longer tubes vs. the shorter ones. I'm thinking that one 5ft tube will be more solid/stable than two short ones. Am I correct on this?

This is one of those situations where any answer is correct.

I have both long and short connector tubes and I use both types (lengths) regularly. In fact, I have more than two different lengths. I purchased 5' tubes that got bent. I cut the bent tubes into a number of shorter pieces and they all get used. Each setup presents its own set of requirements. I also purchased another set of 5' tubes.

The 5' tubes tend to be a nuisance if used in a setup that involves the main table and then it needs to be raised or lowered. Just about everything must be disconnected before the table height can be changed.

I turned some inserts (let's call them connector tube connectors) that allow me to have a long tube that can be broken into two pieces and then put back together.

charlese · Post by **charlese** » Fri Oct 07, 2011 9:55 pm

The only thing I can add to Dusty's post is -- I really have found my 5 ft. tubes are VERY useful. Wouldn't want to be without them! (along with the shorter ones)

fjimp · Post by **fjimp** » Fri Oct 07, 2011 10:55 pm

I have an extra set of every configuration of connector tubes I could find. Once when looking at a used 510 I found a box containing several miscellaneous tubes and parts some weren't even original Shopsmith. I frequently find that the odd sized tubes and some connectors that I have often wondered origin of extremely handy. Hey a couple of them remind me of connectors from a convertible top I once had on a boat. Dusty is right on target. If one considers the Shopsmith tools are all part of a fantastic unending collection of useable jigs, then the possible uses of connector tubes is vital. Yes I agree Dusty is right on target as always. Fjimp

michaeltoc · Post by **michaeltoc** » Sat Oct 08, 2011 8:17 am

I purchased a pair of 6' tubes from onlinemetals.com for $27.30. They may not be as shiny and pretty as the SS tubes, but the price is right. I cleaned them up with acetone to remove the oil and markings then waxed them.

https://www.onlinemetals.com/merchant.c ... 775&step=4

dusty · Post by **dusty** » Sat Oct 08, 2011 8:29 am

michaeltoc wrote:I purchased a pair of 6' tubes from onlinemetals.com for $27.30. They may not be as shiny and pretty as the SS tubes, but the price is right. I cleaned them up with acetone to remove the oil and markings then waxed them.

https://www.onlinemetals.com/merchant.cfm?pid=7775&step=4

Thanks for posting this. This appears to be a very good source for special tube requirements. I may quit cutting up 5' tubes.

bffulgham · Post by **bffulgham** » Sat Oct 08, 2011 6:34 pm

Here's another source for tubing: http://www.speedymetals.com/s-204-round-tube.aspx?pagenum=3

It is on my to-do list to stop by my local pipe and iron supply and see if the tubing they sell is straight and true enough to use.