Woops

[teddythetwig]

So I mounted my Rad on my harddrive cage and now that its time to clean the system and get ready to move it, I have no way to pull the radiator out. Can anyone suggest a nice quick disconnect that blocks water flow unless the two pieces are connected? I remember seeing some a while back, I just can't remember where from.

[baditude_df]

Koolance makes these. They're called Quick Disconnects. There are some models which have a tiny bit of displacement, and some newer ones that are supposed to have NO displaced fluid at disconnect. Those would be designated as *NEW* (High Flow) "No Spill" Shutoff.
http://www.performance-pcs.com/catalog/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=346_203

[Conumdrum]

The jury is still out on these. Been BIG discussions over at XS in the last 3-4 months. The problem is with self-sealing disconnects is the self sealing internals makes the effective size of the tubing MUCH smaller at the disconnect. Maybe to the point of 3/8ID. I can't say for sure. Skinnee has some 'Colder' brand disconnects to test, he ain't done it yet.

These are over 1" in diameter and have fittings for 1/2 ID tubing with clamps. Anything smaller than that I'd worry about flow rates.

What if you could drain the loop and just use QDC's that aren't self sealing?

[baditude_df]

This is the reason I would never use them in a loop of my own.

[Diggrr]

I thought that 3/8" isn't enough to change temps more than 1/4°C?
XS can argue as they wish, but Cathar's already done the leg work, and I'd stand with that barring Skinee finding something different.

I'd say go for it unless you already have a multi-block loop that's pushing your flow low now.

[Conumdrum]

I agre Diggrr. Is your loop like his? It's all about flow rates in these situations. We usually try it anyway. Results, thats all that matters. Hate to see $30 spent and tossed in the box cuz no workie.

If it creates flow rate issues, then we have an issue. Won't know till then.

XS goes for the max, science based input. I follow it closely. You find no better deep tests than what XS offers.

OP: Gave my input, just take it as you wish.

[Diggrr]

Nope, mine's 7/16" tube with 1/2" barbs, all direct connected.
I have run 3/8" for years without problems though...nice tube routing/bends, and plenty of room on top of the block to work with clamps etc. Handy with an in-case setup.