Abstract: A manually operable hand tool apparatus for providing a radially outward flare, known as push connect flare, away from the distal end of a deformable tube. The hand tool comprises a gripper-die means for securing the tube, a yoke portion having internal threads and a manual hydraulic pump portion. The yoke moves axially on a threaded positioning screw that is rigidly connected to the manual hydraulic pump portion. A vise means comprising a screw and a tightening rod is attached to the yoke. The vise is used to secure the gripper-die means to the yoke. The pump portion comprises a cylindrical body, a flaring piston, a threaded positioning screw, a pumping linkage system and a relief valve. An adapter-die is secured by a guide nut which is connected to the flaring piston. Alternative adapter-die and guide nut designs are also used to connect the die to the flaring piston.

Abstract: A coupler for a refrigeration system easily snaps and locks in position over a service port and securely seals the coupler with respect thereto. A tubular outer body includes a first set of cavities which captures a first set of rotatable spherical balls A tubular inner body is located within the outer body and includes a second set of cavities for capturing second set of rotatable, spherical balls. The inner body includes a recess therein for selectively receiving the first set of balls from said outer body. The inner surface of the inner body defines an interior which includes a spring-loaded plunger. When the coupler is placed over a service port, the barrel of the service port enters the interior of the inner body and the plunger means contacts a spring-loaded ball valve causing it to open. At the same time, the first set of balls drops into a recess in the service port and the inner body moves forward with the service port against the biasing of an inner body spring.