Product Description
What It Does
A starter take off (also called a start connector) is the fitting that begins a drip lateral from a rigid mainline. The mainline is usually PVC or HDPE pipe.
The starter take off inserts into a hole drilled in the mainline. The barbed end accepts the 16mm drip lateral. This creates the transition from rigid pipe to flexible drip tubing.
How to Install
First, drill a hole in the mainline using a hand drill punch. The hole size must match the starter take off. For a 16mm take off, use a 16mm bit. Remove any plastic shavings from the hole.
Push the starter take off into the hole until the flange seats firmly against the pipe wall. You may need to twist slightly while pushing. The flange should be flush with the outside of the pipe.
Then push the 16mm drip line onto the barbed end. Push until the tubing covers all barbs, about 15 to 20mm. If the tubing is stiff, warm the end in hot water or sunlight. No glue, no clamps.
Grommet Use
Some installations require a rubber grommet between the mainline hole and the starter take off. The grommet seals the gap and prevents leaks.
If you have a grommet, insert it into the hole first, then push the starter take off through the grommet. The double lip grommet grips both sides of the pipe wall. Use a grommet when the mainline is thin wall or when the hole is slightly oversized.
Pressure and Leak Prevention
The starter take off seals by compression. At pressures up to 3 bar (about 45 PSI), the seal holds.
If you see water leaking around the base of the fitting, the hole may be too large or the flange may not be fully seated. Remove the fitting, check the hole size, and reinstall.
If the leak continues, add a rubber grommet or replace the mainline section.
Removal
To remove a starter take off, twist and pull gently. If it is stuck, cut the mainline pipe at the fitting location and replace the section.
Starter take offs are designed for one‑time use in most cases; removal can damage the flange or the pipe hole.
IrriHub provides reliable irrigation and farm systems for small and medium‑scale farmers across Kenya. For help choosing the right product for your farm, reach out to us directly. Call us: +254 729 717 881. Visit our store: Shubham Complex, Old Mombasa Rd.