Measuring your FDC connection

The outside diameter of a FDC 2 1/2" NH plug measures almost exactly 3 inches. Therefore, the inside diameter of a female FDC swivel also measures 3 inches. It is very common for customers to order a 3" NH replacement plug; however, this is a mistake. If the inside diameter of the female swivel on your FDC measures 3”, then you need a 2 1/2" NH threaded plug.

Replacing a missing FDC Plug or Cap

Fire Department Connections are usually installed with threaded NH brass plugs. This effectively keeps trash, bird's nests. and other debris out of the fittings. Unfortunately, these brass plugs are frequently stolen, and/or sold for scrap profit. Fortunately, they can also be replaced with breakable aluminum or plastic caps, or covers, that utilize eyelets hooking over FDC nubs, known as "pin lugs." These caps, or other plastic plugs, can deter repeated theft and have little-to-no resale value.

Note: It is extremely important to replace missing plugs or covers on your FDC, so that the connection can remain operational for responding firefighters.

Replace a missing female FDC swivel

Sometimes, original brass swivels are stolen. In this case, you will need a replacement 2 1/2" NH / NST brass swivel kit. This kit includes one swivel, a plastic cover, ball bearings, and a set screw. It is recommended that you intentionally “ding” all set screws after installation - to deter an easy theft. Make sure you test the swivel first to ensure you did not over tighten the screw.

Storz connections on a FDC

With growing popularity of large diameter supply hose, Storz fittings are starting to appear on buildings using a single 4" FDC Storz fitting or a 5" FDC Storz fitting. A single fire hose can run water into the Storz FDC to supplement an entire building's water pressure.