Discover the essential guide to AN6 fittings—your go-to resource for seamless performance in automotive and industrial applications. Whether you’re upgrading fuel systems or customizing hydraulic lines, AN6 fittings offer reliability, durability, and a sleek finish. This shopping guide will help you navigate the best options, ensuring a perfect fit for your project and peace of mind for every enthusiast and professional alike.
AN6 Fittings Shopping Guide
AN6 Fittings Comparison Table
| Type | Material | Application Areas | Fluid Compatibility | Typical Color Options | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard AN6 | Aluminum | Fuel, oil, water lines | Most automotive fluids | Black, Red/Blue, Nickel | Lightweight, corrosion resistant |
| PTFE Hose End AN6 | Aluminum/PTFE | High-temp fluids, chemicals | All automotive fluids, incl. ethanol, methanol | Black, Red | Extreme temp & chemical resistance |
| Push Lock AN6 | Aluminum/Rubber | Low to medium pressure | Fuel, oil, coolant | Black, Red/Blue | No hose clamp needed, quick install |
| Forged AN6 | Forged Aluminum | High pressure, tight spaces | Fuel, oil, hydraulic fluids | Black, Red | Extra strength, compact size |
| Bulkhead AN6 | Aluminum/Stainless | Firewall, tank pass-through | All fluids | Black, Nickel | Allows secure panel mounting |
| Swivel AN6 | Aluminum | Vibration-prone, tight routing | Most fluids | Black, Red/Blue | Rotation for easier assembly |
| Banjo AN6 | Aluminum | Compact connections, brake/fuel lines | Most fluids | Black, Nickel | Space saving 90° configuration |
Everyday Usage of AN6 Fittings
AN6 fittings are a staple in automotive, motorsport, and industrial applications where reliable, leak-free fluid connections are essential. Here’s why they’re so popular:
- Fuel Systems: Commonly used in performance and aftermarket builds, AN6 fittings handle gasoline, ethanol, and diesel with secure, high-flow connections.
- Oil Coolers & Transmission Lines: Their compatibility with various fluids and temperature ranges makes them ideal for oil and transmission cooler setups.
- Brake & Clutch Lines: When built with PTFE core hoses, AN6 fittings provide firm pedal feel and eliminate expansion under pressure—a must for brake/clutch upgrades.
- Water/Coolant Lines: Used for radiator connections in custom cooling systems.
- Air & Vacuum Lines: In performance engines or turbo setups, AN6 fittings and PTFE hoses are leak-resistant, preventing loss of boost or vacuum.
Real-World Examples
- Swapping an EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection) system into a classic car.
- Upgrading a high-horsepower engine’s oil cooler lines for better heat management.
- Replacing fragile rubber fuel line with ethanol-compatible, stainless PTFE hose and AN6 fittings in an E85 conversion.
Key Benefits of AN6 Fittings
Why are AN6 fittings the go-to choice for enthusiasts and pros alike? Here are the top advantages:
- Leak-Free Performance: AN6’s 37° flare and precise threading create a reliable seal under pressure.
- Versatility: Compatible with a wide range of hoses and lines (rubber, nylon braided, PTFE) and suited to most automotive fluids—including E85, methanol, and hydraulic fluids.
- Modular Design: Swivel, straight, 45°, 90°, 180° bends, banjo, tee, bulkhead and more—there’s an AN6 fitting for nearly every routing challenge.
- Enhanced Durability: Aluminum construction resists corrosion, while PTFE core hoses are unaffected by most chemicals and won’t degrade over time.
- Professional Appearance: Braided lines with anodized fittings look great in any engine bay or custom build.
- Easy to Assemble: No special tools needed for most; adjustable wrenches and basic AN assembly kits are sufficient for leak-free results.
How to Choose the Right AN6 Fittings
Selecting the perfect AN6 fitting involves considering your application, fluid type, environment, and ease of installation. Use the checklist and advice below:
1. Identify Your Application
- Fuel, Oil, Brake, or Coolant? Each use may impact material and hose type selection.
- For brake and clutch: Use PTFE-lined hose with crimp or compression-style AN6 ends.
- For fuel/oil: Aluminum hose ends work for almost all builds; upgrade to PTFE if using ethanol/methanol.
2. Match Hose Type to Fitting
- Standard Rubber/Nylon Braided Hose: Standard AN6 aluminum hose ends.
- PTFE Braided Hose: Requires PTFE-specific AN6 fittings with compression seals.
3. Consider Pressure and Temperature
- PTFE hoses with AN6 ends: Up to 1500 PSI and temperatures to 500°F.
- Standard rubber: Typically rated for 250–350 PSI, up to 200–250°F.
4. Evaluate Space and Routing
- Use 45°, 90°, and swivel AN6 fittings for tight engine bays or sharp hose turns.
- Bulkhead AN6 fittings where lines pass through panels (e.g., firewalls, fuel cells).
- Straight, full-flow AN6 ends for longest, least restrictive lines.
5. Check Chemical Compatibility
- Only PTFE-lined hose and compatible AN6 fittings should be used for aggressive fuels, brake fluid, or methanol.
6. Choose Finish and Color
- Anodized black or red/blue for corrosion protection and style.
- Nickel for show-quality or maximum corrosion resistance.
7. Warranty and Support
- Seek brands with strong warranties (lifetime/PTFE, multi-year/aluminum) and technical support.
User Tips & Best Practices
Getting flawless results with AN6 fittings is easy if you keep these pro tips in mind:
- Cut Cleanly: Always cut braided hose with a dedicated hose cutter or fine-tooth cutoff blade for a straight, burr-free edge. This ensures sealing and easy fitting installation.
- Deburr & Clean: Remove any stray wire strands or debris from hose ends before fitting installation.
- Use Assembly Tools: AN wrenches or soft-jaw pliers prevent marring the anodized finish.
- Seal Properly: AN fitting threads should NEVER use Teflon tape for 37° flare-to-flare connections, but may need sealing compound for NPT thread adapters.
- Pressure Test: Use a pressure test kit to check completed lines before installing in the vehicle, avoiding catastrophic leaks or spills.
- Avoid Tight Bends: Don’t over-flex or sharply bend hose near fitting ends—install angled fittings instead to maintain flow and hose integrity.
- Torque Carefully: Overtightening can deform flare seals or strip aluminum threads. Follow recommended torque values.
AN6 Fittings Technical Comparison Table
| Attribute | Standard AN6 | PTFE Hose End AN6 | Push Lock AN6 | Bulkhead AN6 | Forged AN6 | Swivel AN6 | Banjo AN6 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thread Size | 9/16″-18 | 9/16″-18 | 9/16″-18 | 9/16″-18 | 9/16″-18 | 9/16″-18 | 9/16″-18 |
| Hose Compatibility | Rubber, Nylon | PTFE Braided | Push-Lock Rubber | All hoses | All hoses | All hoses | All hoses |
| Working Pressure (PSI) | 250–350 | Up to 1500 | 150–250 | Matched to hose | Matched to hose | Matched to hose | 500–1500 (varies) |
| Temp Range (°F) | up to 250 | -100 to 500 | up to 200 | Matched to hose | Matched to hose | Matched to hose | Matched to hose |
| Typical Material | 6061-T6 Aluminum | Aluminum / Brass | Aluminum | Aluminum, Steel | Forged Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum, Steel |
| Common Applications | Fuel, oil, coolant | All fluids (E85, brake, etc.) | Fuel, oil, coolant | Panels, firewalls | High-pressure lines | Rotating connections | Space-saving, brakes |
| Swivel Feature | Optional | Standard | No | Optional | Usually | Standard | No |
| Common Angles | Straight, 45°, 90°, 180° | Straight, 45°, 90°, 180° | Straight, 45°, 90° | Straight, 90° | 45°, 90° | 360° Swivel | 90° |
| Color Options | Black, Red/Blue | Black, Red, Gold | Black, Red | Black, Nickel | Black, Nickel | Black, Red/Blue | Black, Nickel |
| Price Range (per fitting) | $5–$20 | $8–$25 | $5–$12 | $10–$25 | $8–$18 | $8–$18 | $10–$25 |
Practical Tips & Best Practices
- Match the Hose and Fitting: Never mix standard AN hose ends with PTFE hose or vice versa. Always buy hose and hose ends as a matched set.
- Inspect Before Use: Quality fittings have clean, consistently machined threads and flares. Avoid any with visible cracks or defects.
- Always Test Fit: Before cutting hoses to length, loosely assemble everything on the car to confirm routing and avoid costly mistakes.
- Pressure & Leak Test: Test all lines at operating pressure with air or fluid before putting them into service.
- Check for Clearance: Braided lines can abrade through sharp edges or bodywork—use hose separators, P-clamps, or heat shielding where needed.
- Use the Right Tools: Special AN wrenches preserve appearance, and soft-jaw vise inserts help keep fittings scratch-free during assembly.
- Label Lines: For complex fuel or oil systems, label each line’s destination for easy troubleshooting.
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Conclusion
Choosing and installing AN6 fittings is crucial for building a reliable, safe, and high-performance fluid system in your vehicle or project. These fittings offer unmatched modularity, durability, and versatility, suitable for anything from a custom fuel system to a show-winning engine bay.
Prioritize correct hose compatibility, pressure rating, and chemical resistance for your intended application. PTFE-lined AN6 fittings are best for modern fuels and brake lines, while standard aluminum is sufficient for most oil and coolant jobs. Never overlook the value of proper assembly practices and testing—these ensure leak-free results you can trust.
By understanding the options and following best practices outlined in this guide, you’ll maximize both the performance and longevity of your AN6-equipped fluid system.
FAQ
-
What does “AN6” mean?
AN6 refers to a specific size of Army-Navy (AN) fitting, with “6” meaning the fitting is designed to connect to 3/8″ hose or pipe (each AN unit equals 1/16″; 6 x 1/16″ = 3/8″). -
Can I use AN6 fittings for both fuel and oil lines?
Yes. AN6 fittings are universally used for both fuel and oil lines, provided you select a fitting and hose material compatible with the fluid type (e.g., PTFE-lined for E85). -
What hose type should I use with AN6 fittings?
Use standard braided rubber or nylon hoses with standard AN6 hose ends for gas/oil. For E85, brake fluid, or methanol, use PTFE-lined hose and PTFE-compatible AN6 fittings. -
Are AN6 fittings compatible with ethanol fuels like E85?
When using PTFE-lined hose and PTFE-compatible AN6 fittings, yes—these are fully compatible with ethanol, methanol, and corrosive racing fuels. -
How much pressure can AN6 fittings handle?
Pressure capacity depends on hose and fitting type. PTFE-lined hose/fittings can handle up to 1500 PSI, while standard rubber hoses are typically rated for 250–350 PSI. -
What tools do I need to assemble AN6 fittings?
You need a hose cutter, AN assembly wrench or soft-jaw pliers, and (for best results) a vice with soft jaws. PTFE lines also benefit from a special compression insert tool. -
Do I need to use sealant or Teflon tape on AN6 fittings?
Never use Teflon tape on flare-to-flare AN threads. For NPT-threaded adapters, a suitable thread sealant or Teflon tape may be required on the NPT (tapered) side only. -
Can I reuse AN6 fittings?
You can often reuse AN6 aluminum hose ends if they are undamaged. Inspect for thread wear, cracking, or deformed flares before reuse. PTFE ends may deform with repeated assembly. -
What’s the difference between standard and PTFE AN6 fittings?
PTFE AN6 fittings are designed specifically for PTFE (Teflon-type) hoses, featuring compression-style seals to handle high pressure and chemically aggressive fluids, unlike standard ends for rubber/nylon hoses. -
Are there color or finish options for AN6 fittings?
Yes—common finishes include anodized black, red/blue, gold, and nickel for a professional look and added corrosion resistance. Color also helps with organizing complex fluid systems.