When building or maintaining a high-performance fluid system, the integrity of every connection is paramount. Aeroquip fittings have long been the industry standard for professionals and enthusiasts who demand reliability under pressure. From fuel and oil lines to hydraulic and coolant systems, using the correct fitting is not just about preventing leaks; it’s about ensuring safety and maximizing performance.
This roundup focuses on eight specific Aeroquip fittings designed for a variety of applications. Whether you need a tight-angle swivel elbow, a robust stainless steel hose end, or a specialized adapter for a metric thread, selecting the right component is crucial. We’ve compiled this list to help you identify the perfect fitting for your project, ensuring a quality connection that will stand the test of time and stress.
Our Top Picks for Aeroquip Fittings
- Aeroquip FC350-06 FC350 Series Reusable Hose Fitting 90 Degree Swivel Elbow
- Aeroquip FBM1466-06-06 Flange Bolt Metric Adapter 6AN Male to M14x1.5
- Aeroquip 2606-06-06SS AQP 6AN Straight Hose End Fitting Stainless Steel
- Aeroquip FCM2004-4-4 FCM2004 Series 45 Degree Swivel Elbow
- Aeroquip FBM1282-06-06 Flange Bolt Adapter 6AN Male to 3/4-16 Female
- Aeroquip 2612-08-08SS AQP 8AN 90 Degree Hose End Fitting Stainless Steel
- Aeroquip FBM1483-06-06 Flange Bolt Metric Adapter 6AN Male to M18x1.5
- Aeroquip F781-06-06 37 Degree Flare Fitting 6AN Male to 9/16-18 Female
Aeroquip FC350-06 FC350 Series Reusable Hose Fitting 90 Degree Swivel Elbow
Navigating tight engine bays and complex routing paths requires fittings that offer flexibility without compromising the seal. This 90-degree swivel elbow is engineered for exactly those situations. The swivel feature allows for easy installation and alignment, reducing stress on the hose assembly and ensuring a optimal flow path.
Designed for use with 3/8-inch hose, this reusable fitting from the FC350 series provides a durable and cost-effective solution. Instead of replacing an entire hose assembly, you can simply replace the fitting, saving both time and resources. Its construction is built to handle the demands of various industrial and automotive fluid systems.
Aeroquip FBM1466-06-06 Flange Bolt Metric Adapter 6AN Male to M14x1.5 Female
Integrating AN-style plumbing with modern engines often requires a bridge between different threading standards. This flange bolt metric adapter serves as that essential bridge, connecting a standard 6AN male end to a M14x1.5 female metric port. This is particularly useful for connecting fuel lines or oil coolers to import engines and components.
The flange bolt design provides a secure and stable connection, minimizing the chance of vibration loosening the fitting. Its precise machining ensures a perfect thread engagement, which is critical for preventing fluid leaks under high pressure. This adapter simplifies the process of using high-quality AN hose ends in a wider range of applications.
Aeroquip 2606-06-06SS AQP 6AN Straight Hose End Fitting Stainless Steel
For applications demanding maximum corrosion resistance and strength, a stainless steel hose end is the preferred choice. This AQP straight fitting is machined from stainless steel, making it ideal for harsh environments, including marine applications, racing fuel systems, and exposed plumbing where appearance matters.
The straight-through design is one of the most common and essential fittings for any hose line. Its 6AN size is a popular standard for fuel and oil systems in performance vehicles. The reusable design means it can be assembled with the appropriate Aeroquip hose, creating a robust, permanent-feeling connection that can be serviced if needed.
Aeroquip FCM2004-4-4 FCM2004 Series 45 Degree Swivel Elbow
When a 90-degree angle is too sharp and a straight fitting is too direct, a 45-degree swivel elbow offers the perfect compromise. This fitting provides a more gradual turn for fluid lines, which can help maintain flow efficiency and reduce turbulence. The swivel function is invaluable for achieving the perfect alignment during installation.
With a 1/4 inch NPT female thread, this fitting is designed to connect directly to a wide array of components like sensors, valves, and manifolds that use standard pipe threads. This makes it extremely versatile for both pneumatic and low-pressure hydraulic systems in industrial and automotive contexts.
Aeroquip FBM1282-06-06 Flange Bolt Adapter 6AN Male to 3/4-16 Female
This flange bolt adapter solves a specific compatibility problem by connecting a 6AN male fitting to a 3/4-16 female thread. This type of adapter is commonly needed for connecting AN lines to certain power steering components, transmission coolers, or other specialized fittings found in automotive and machinery applications.
The robust flange bolt design ensures a tight, secure fit that can withstand the vibrations common in vehicle and equipment operation. By providing a reliable transition between thread types, this adapter eliminates the need for custom machining or less reliable workarounds, ensuring a professional and leak-free connection.
Aeroquip 2612-08-08SS AQP 8AN 90 Degree Hose End Fitting Stainless Steel
For high-flow systems that also require a compact 90-degree turn, this 8AN stainless steel hose end is an excellent solution. The larger 8AN size is often used for main fuel lines, oil cooler lines, and other applications where volume is a priority. The 90-degree design helps package these larger lines in confined spaces.
Constructed from corrosion-resistant stainless steel, this fitting is built for both performance and longevity. Its durable construction can handle the demands of high-pressure and high-temperature fluids. Like other AQP fittings, it is reusable, offering long-term value and serviceability for your hose assemblies.
Aeroquip FBM1483-06-06 Flange Bolt Metric Adapter 6AN Male to M18x1.5 Female
Similar to its M14 counterpart, this adapter is tailored for components with a M18x1.5 metric female port. This specific thread size is found on various automotive and industrial components, making this adapter a crucial part of the toolkit for anyone working on European vehicles or specific machinery.
The precision-machined threads ensure a perfect fit, preventing cross-threading and ensuring a seal that won’t leak. The 6AN male end allows you to utilize the extensive range of Aeroquip 6AN hose ends and assemblies, bringing reliable AN plumbing to metric-equipped systems.
Aeroquip F781-06-06 37 Degree Flare Fitting 6AN Male to 9/16-18 Female
This fitting is designed for creating a secure connection with components that use a 37-degree flare seat, which is a common standard in automotive brake and fuel systems. The 9/16-18 female thread allows it to screw directly into these ports, while the 6AN male end accepts a standard reusable hose end.
The 37-degree flare connection is known for its metal-to-metal sealing capability, which is highly effective at containing high-pressure fluids. This makes the F781 fitting a trusted choice for critical safety systems like brake lines, where a leak-free connection is non-negotiable.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Aeroquip Fitting
When I need to build or repair a hydraulic or fluid transfer system, picking the right fitting is half the battle. Aeroquip has a huge range, and knowing what to look for saves me time, money, and a lot of potential headaches. It’s not just about grabbing the first fitting I see; it’s about making sure it will hold up under pressure and work with the equipment I have. Over the years, I’ve learned to focus on a few key areas to make the best choice for my projects.
First, I always check the thread type and size. This is the most basic step, but it’s easy to get wrong. I make sure I know if I need NPT (National Pipe Taper) threads, which create a seal by the threads wedging together, or SAE straight threads, which usually need an O-ring or a separate sealing washer. Mixing these up is a guaranteed leak. I keep a thread gauge handy to double-check the pitch and diameter, because even a small mistake here means the fitting just won’t screw in properly.
Next, I consider the material and the pressure rating. What fluid is going through the line? For standard hydraulic oil, steel fittings are usually my go-to. But if I’m working with fuel or something corrosive, I look at stainless steel Aeroquip fittings for their resistance to rust and chemical damage. The pressure rating is non-negotiable. I always check the system’s maximum operating pressure and make sure the fitting’s rating is well above that. I never want to be in a situation where a fitting is the weakest link.
Finally, I think about the configuration and the hose or tube it needs to connect to. Is it a straight connector, a 90-degree elbow, or a tee? The routing of my lines often dictates this. More importantly, I confirm the fitting is compatible with the hose end. Using the wrong style can lead to a poor grip and a failed connection. For a solid and reliable setup, taking the time to go through this 8 Best Aeroquip Fittings Review for Quality Connections process in my head ensures I get a part that performs as expected from the first turn of the wrench.
FAQ
What is the main difference between Aeroquip reusable and crimp fittings?
The big difference is in how you install them and for what kind of job. Reusable fittings are my pick for repairs or when I’m building systems in my shop. You can assemble them with basic tools—a wrench and a vise—and they allow you to replace just the hose if it wears out, saving the fitting. Crimp fittings need a specialized crimping machine. They create a super clean, permanent connection and are what you typically see in high-volume manufacturing. For most of my garage projects, reusable fittings are the way to go.
Can I use Aeroquip hydraulic fittings with other brands of hose?
This is a tricky one. While the thread ends might be standard (like NPT or JIC), the stem that actually goes into the hose is often brand-specific. An Aeroquip stem is designed to work perfectly with an Aeroquip hose. I’ve tried mixing brands before, and even if it seems to fit, the seal and grip aren’t guaranteed. To avoid leaks and potential blow-offs, I always try to match the fitting brand with the hose brand. It’s just not a risk worth taking for the sake of a few dollars.
How do I identify an Aeroquip fitting’s size and type?
It can feel like decoding a secret language at first. I look for markings stamped directly on the fitting. They usually include the thread size (like 1/2″), the thread type (like NPT or JIC), and often a dash number that corresponds to the hose size. Aeroquip also uses a color-coded system on some of their fittings—a blue collar often means it’s for their FC300 hose, for example. If I’m ever unsure, I take the old fitting to a supplier or use a thread identification guide. Guessing almost always leads to a wasted trip.
What causes an Aeroquip fitting to leak after installation?
From my experience, leaks usually come from a few common mistakes. Overtightening is a big one; you can damage the threads or crush the sealing surface. Not tightening enough is just as bad. Using the wrong thread sealant (or none at all on NPT threads) is another classic error. For SAE O-ring ports, a missing, damaged, or mis-sized O-ring will cause an immediate leak. Finally, cross-threading during installation will ruin both the fitting and the port. A slow, careful installation is always faster than fixing a leak later.
Are Aeroquip fittings suitable for high-temperature applications?
Yes, but you have to pick the right one. Standard Aeroquip fittings are fine for most industrial hydraulic temperatures. However, if I’m working on an engine bay or a system near a heat source, I look for their high-temperature variants. These are often made from specific materials and use seals like FKM (Viton) that can handle sustained heat well over 400°F. The standard Buna-N O-rings in many kits will break down quickly under high heat, so checking the specs for both the fitting material and the seal is crucial.