How to Use Plumber's Primer & Solvent

Measure the pipe and cut the required length. A miter saw is best for fast and precise cuts, but a hacksaw with a fine-tooth blade is effective when a miter saw is unavailable. Plastic tubing cutters and ratcheting plastic pipe cutters are also useful for fast cuts.

Scrape the burr off the cut end of the pipe with a deburring tool. A utility knife is also effective if you don't have a deburring tool. File the edges of the cut end to a 10-degree angle for the best fit.

Insert the cut end of the pipe into the fitting. Check the fit and ensure that the pipe is at an appropriate length. If the pipe must be adjusted, mark the section requiring an adjustment before disassembling the parts.

Remove the pipe and make any necessary corrections.

Apply a coat of the primer around the outside section of the cut end of the pipe. Also, apply the primer around the inside end of the fitting. Let the primer dry for about 10 seconds.

Coat the primed end of the pipe with an even layer of cement solvent. Apply a thin coat of the solvent to the primed end of the fitting.

Slide the pipe into the fitting immediately. Push until the end of the pipe bottoms out against the shoulder of the fitting. Twist the pipe by a quarter turn to spread the glue inside the fitting and ensure a secure fit.

Hold the parts together for about 30 seconds to prevent them from slipping apart. Wipe off excess solvent with a dry cloth.