Overview
The AirLift Accessories Straight Fitting, part number AIR21873, is a straight air line fitting with a female 1/4 inch FNPT thread and a 1/2 inch tube connection, classed as a hose adaptor.
The thread size, tube size and fitting type are the facts AirLift gives. The fitting joins a 1/2 inch tube to a female 1/4 inch FNPT port, which makes it a larger-diameter air line connection than the small tube fittings in the same range. No pressure rating, material or finish is published for it.
FNPT stands for female National Pipe Taper, a tapered pipe thread that seals when it is tightened into a matching male port, usually with thread sealant. The 1/2 inch tube end connects the fitting to the air line, so the two ends must match the port and the tubing you already have.
AirLift’s brand text explains that Air Lift Company has developed air spring suspension products since 1949. Its original product, a rubber air spring inserted into a car’s factory coil spring, was created and patented in 1950. Today the company says its load support products are engineered to fit over 540 vehicles and include air helper springs for trucks, RVs, SUVs, CUVs and vans, along with on-board air compressor systems for air spring control. That describes AirLift’s range, not this fitting.
Key features
- Straight fitting with a female 1/4 inch FNPT thread
- 1/2 inch tube connection
- Fitting type: Hose Adaptor
- From Air Lift Company, an air spring suspension specialist since 1949
- Universal fit; not tied to one vehicle
Sealing a pipe thread
Tapered pipe threads seal by wedging together as they are tightened, so the joint depends on how the male port is cut and how clean it is. Before threading the fitting in, wipe out the port and remove any old sealant or debris. Use a thread sealant rated for compressed air, and apply it to the male threads only so none enters the air passage.
Tighten the fitting until it is snug and firm rather than forcing it past the point of sealing, because an overtightened tapered thread can crack the port. After connecting the tube, pressurize the system and check the joint for hissing or with soapy water. Re-check the joint after the first few days of use, since vibration can loosen a threaded connection on a vehicle.
- Clean the port and threads before assembly
- Use sealant suited to compressed air
- Check for leaks with soapy water after pressurizing
Specifications
| Brand | AirLift |
|---|---|
| Part number | AIR21873 |
| Product type | Straight air fitting |
| Thread | Female 1/4 inch FNPT |
| Tube size | 1/2 inch |
| Fitting type | Hose Adaptor |
| Fit type | Universal Fit |
| Material, pressure rating and finish | Not published |
Vehicle fitment
The AIR21873 is a universal fit part, defined by its thread and tube size: female 1/4 inch FNPT to 1/2 inch tube. Confirm fit for your vehicle’s year, model and trim before ordering.
Match the female 1/4 inch FNPT thread and the 1/2 inch tube size to the port and line in your air system, because a fitting with a different thread or tube size will not connect. Confirm pressure limits for your system before installing.
Confirm your vehicle’s year, model and trim before ordering.
