Bob I had the same problem as you and apparently everyone else. I thought what the hell I will fork out the extra cash for the pre-bent stainless lines to my project moving. Every joint leaked and I mean leaked good. I did the loosen and re-tighten method and figured the brass tees would fail before the steel flare nut so I kept wrenching them down. They did eventually stop leaking. Hope this gives you some hope. Good Luck