Hints for removing brass hose bib?

SteveW

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• May 8, 2005

• #1

I could use some hints. I was trying to remove a 3/4" brass hose bib from an irrigation pipe which looked to be 2" galvanized. Although it looked like pipe dope was used, I could not budge the hose bib! Used a standard-size pipe wrench (the flats had been rounded off already -- apparently someone else had trouble getting it off, too!). Put all my weight into it, didn't move a bit. I was afraid I'd break the fitting or pipe (probably an irrational fear, I realize).

Any thoughts/hints? Cheater pipe? Heat?

Thanks!

 

hj

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• May 8, 2005

• #2

bibb

Without seeing it we cannot tell if there is some reason why your wrench did not unscrew it. But if it is a threaded connection, then a larger wrench or a cheater bar may be all you need.

 

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SteveW

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• May 10, 2005

• #3

I took another look at it -- actually now looks like there is no pipe dope/Teflon tape on the threads. It is 3/4" threads on the brass hose bib going into a 2" x 2" x 3/4" galvanized tee.

Any other suggestions other than brute force? Does penetrating oil help, like it does with rusted automobile fasteners?

 

hj

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• May 10, 2005

• #4

bibb

brute force.

 

SteveW

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• May 10, 2005

• #5

Got it! Thanks, hj.

 

Cal

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• May 11, 2005

• #6

On rare occasion, if you can get the threads to TIGHTEN just a hair it will "crack" the seal and allow you to spin it off.

 

hj

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• May 11, 2005

• #7

bibb

I don't think I have ever had any thread that it was easier to tighten it a bit, than to unscrew it. But the theory is good.

 

Last edited: May 11, 2005

SteveW

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• May 11, 2005

• #8

Definitely worth a try! Thanks.

 

Cal

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• May 12, 2005

• #9

ANY of us in the buisness know,,,,plumbing is the MOST fickle thing there is.

 

CaptWally

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• May 18, 2005

• #10

Blast the thing with a torch of MAPP gas, not propane. Hold the torch there several minutes while you talk on the phone or whatever.

Ooops, I see you already got it.

 

SteveW

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• May 18, 2005

• #11

Actually, the organization that rented me the garden space went ahead and called a plumber, so yes, it did get taken care of. But I really appreciate all the advice and will make good use of these ideas down the road!
Thanks.