Rear strut return pipe t-piece

DLM · Post by **DLM** » Mon Nov 19, 2007 5:32 pm

I'm attempting to replace a split t-piece which nestles between the rear subframe and the underside of the car. It takes both rear strut returns and feeds out to the return heading back up under the rhs sill. All pipes are plastic - 4mm I believe. Local Citroen agent says part is 5451213 @ a staggering £21 + VAT. I say staggering because it's just a rubber or rubberised plastic 3-way union.

Does anyone have any alternative sources /suggestions? We may well be going the DIY plumbing route....

DavidRutherford · Post by **DavidRutherford** » Mon Nov 19, 2007 5:50 pm

I *think* that there are push-fit fittings available for that sort of size plastic pipe, designed for compressed air. Last time I checked they are fairly cheap too (a couple of squid)

DLM · Post by **DLM** » Mon Nov 19, 2007 6:17 pm

Thank you, David. Any idea of potential stockists? I appreciate the ultimate answer to this problem is new rear cylinders or seals, but this is a limited-time MOT retest scenario. I also have the car set up for quick rear subframe drop at present (you cannot get access to this area otherwise).

DavidRutherford · Post by **DavidRutherford** » Mon Nov 19, 2007 6:32 pm

This:

is the sort of fitting I'm thinking of (the plastic bit, obviously) but I don't know what they're "officially" called. I've never had to buy any either, so I've no idea what sort of supplier would have them, sorry.

But... I'm fairly sure they were available in 0.5mm steps, so 4.5mm would be an available size.

kermit the frog · Post by **kermit the frog** » Mon Nov 19, 2007 7:34 pm

Hi DLM

Just read you post and i may have the answer
Just one question do you have a local RS components store
if not you may be able to get this online at http://rswww.com
They do a pneumatic equal T Piece part number JPB4 Stock number287-4033 for 4mm plastic pipe at around £3 50 each approx price as the catalogue i have looked it up in is a bit out of date.(1998)
the main body of the connecter is metal so should last better than the original.

hope this helps you out

Regards KERMIT

kermit the frog · Post by **kermit the frog** » Mon Nov 19, 2007 7:49 pm

Just checked on RS web site still available

RS stock number 287-4033 £3 25 each

regards KERMIT

ellevie · Post by **ellevie** » Mon Nov 19, 2007 11:43 pm

Nice one KERMIT. That's got to be worth remembering.

DLM · Post by **DLM** » Tue Nov 20, 2007 10:00 am

Many thanks, Kermit - investigating it now....

Kevin B · Post by **Kevin B** » Tue Nov 20, 2007 10:55 am

On the subject of the push on Y connector. I bought one recently from a Citroen dealer, this was however the one that sits on top of the LHM reserviour for cars that have the power steering option.

This item cost me £3.58 + VAT, and is interchangable with the item you are seeking.

kermit the frog · Post by **kermit the frog** » Tue Nov 20, 2007 12:50 pm

Hi Kevin B

I know which one you are on about but i don't think i would be up to the job as you have to drop the rear sub frame to do it .
It needs to be a fit and forget solution.

Regards Kermit

DLM · Post by **DLM** » Thu Nov 22, 2007 5:07 pm

On the subject of the push on Y connector. I bought one recently from a Citroen dealer, this was however the one that sits on top of the LHM reserviour for cars that have the power steering option.

This item cost me £3.58 + VAT, and is interchangable with the item you are seeking

We did look at this option, as those air vents don't seem to do a lot, but as the diameter of the filler cap vent and vent pipes is smaller, it wasn't really a goer.

The friend for whom I was fixing this BX does a certain amount of gas piping work and he eventually found a suitable metal t-piece. We then:

(1) Pushed through the pipes to the front of the axle to allow enough working space (both suspension returns had to be disconnected from their boot).
(2) Carefully pushed screwcaps and olive onto each pipe
(3) Assembled each connection to the t-piece and tightened up.
(4) Replaced the assembly and fastened it onto the clip at the top of the subframe.

Yesterday the car went for MOT retest and passed.