Weil McLain 560-742-859 Pilot Tube
The Weil McLain 560-742-859 Aluminum Pilot Tube is a short 1/4 in. by 3 in. tube with a factory-formed 90-degree bend. It is catalogued as a "Tube Pilot 1/4 x 3 90 Deg," and the photo shows a clean, bright aluminum tube with an open end on each side of a smooth bend, with no fittings, nuts or ferrules attached. Matching a short formed tube by number is much easier than cutting and bending a length by hand.
A formed tube like this is used where a gas or sense line has to turn a tight corner in a small space, such as around a valve body or between two closely spaced connections. Hand-bending a short length of 1/4 in. aluminum tube to a clean 90-degree angle is difficult, because it kinks easily, and a kinked or flattened tube restricts flow or leaks at a fitting. A factory-formed bend keeps the passage round and the ends square, which makes a gas-tight connection much easier.
When you replace a tube, shut off the gas supply first and handle the new tube gently, because aluminum work-hardens and can crack if it is bent back and forth. Check both ends for burrs, confirm the tube is the same 1/4 in. diameter and the same overall run as the original, and tighten the fittings snugly without over-torquing. Leak-test every joint with an approved solution after the gas is back on. Do not reuse an old tube that has been kinked, flattened or repeatedly bent. Compare the bend angle and the 3 in. length to your original before you order, and confirm compatibility with your boiler.
Key Benefits
- Factory-Formed 90-Degree Bend: The bend is already made, so the passage stays round and the ends stay square.
- Compact 1/4 In. by 3 In. Size: A short run for tight spaces where a hand-bent tube would kink.
- Clean Aluminum Finish: Bare aluminum tube with open ends, ready for your fittings.
- Catalogued as a Pilot Tube: The catalog designation reads Tube Pilot, so match it by number to your original.
Common Questions
- What size is the 560-742-859? 1/4 in. by 3 in. with a 90-degree bend, as the catalog designation reads.
- Does it include fittings? No. The photo shows the bare aluminum tube. Supply your own fittings to match the original.
- Can I bend my own instead? You can, but aluminum tube kinks easily at this size. The factory-formed bend keeps the passage open and the ends square.