Broken threads in faucet

[filmkid]

Newbie here, thanks for the forum, admins!

I moved into a new apartment and went to remove the aerator to install my own that couples with my portable dishwasher. As I tried to unscrew it, the threads snapped off due to corrosion.

I have tried a few things in removing the threads but no luck to far. I bought 'pipe nipple extractors' from Home Depot, but the largest one is just a tad too small to fit in the faucet mouth. I was thinking about trying to wrap a washcloth around it and try that, but I am doubtful.

I tried soaking in LimeAway and tapping a tiny screwdriver inbetween the threads, but that spelled the end of that screwdriver as it bent and became worthless. I may try an awl next.

Currently it is soaking in CLR. Does anyone have advice for me? Like I said it is an apartment, and my manager is never going to get around to a replacement faucet, it took me three weeks to get a front door key that doesn't take 20 minutes of jiggling to open the door. Seriously.

Thanks so much!

Filmkid

[filmkid]

soaking in CLR and using an awl to break away at the threads worked. I hope others can benefit form this, since I didn't see anyone post anywhere on the web that they had success w this.

Oh BTW, I did use my power drill with a tiny titanium coated bit to drill into the threading in various spots. I was very careful not to go too far and damage the faucet threading. Worked like a charm. I had read of ppl trying to hacksaw bits of thread in larger pipe, and couldnt do that w such a narrow/shallow area... but the drill was perfect.

[jimbo]

Congratulations on your ingenuity!

The scratch awl, or ice pick, is the tool I have used. The hardest part is if you cannot remove the spout, your are working upside down with a mirror.

By the way, if you put just a light dab of plumbers grease, or even vaseline, on the threads, the aerator will come out easier next time.

[filmkid]

Congratulations on your ingenuity!

The scratch awl, or ice pick, is the tool I have used. The hardest part is if you cannot remove the spout, your are working upside down with a mirror.

By the way, if you put just a light dab of plumbers grease, or even vaseline, on the threads, the aerator will come out easier next time.

NOW you tell me! :)

Thanks! I was proud to tell my building manager I took care of the problem myself.

Luckily I was able to take the spout off... never would been able to get it myself otherwise, I'm just not that coordinated!

Thanks again for providing such a site!

Best,
fk