1/2" snake in 1.5" cast drain?

[mikey4108]

Hey all, DIYer in a 50s house with cast iron drains. My 1.5” kitchen/laundry branch has entirely stopped draining, ran a 35’ 5/16” snake with no result. Guesstimate of the length of the drain run based on vent location is 30ft. Would like to run a longer snake, but the only ones available for rent are 1/2".
Stuffing a 1/2" snake down a 1.5" cast line (probably smaller w/ rust) is a bad idea right?

 

[Caliber_Plumbing]

Yes. That will not work. You can use a 1/4" snake. Maybe that will work fine.

 

[Sponsor]

 

[Tuttles Revenge]

Likely your drain is greased up.. the snake you have is getting through, but it just goops closed again when you pull the snake out.

 

[Reach4]

Consider having a drain cleaning specialist come out with the big snake. If you run a big snake, you could get injured.

Sometimes snaking from the roof is good. It makes sure that the snake did not turn upward. The local pro probably knows the typical construction in your area. But beware of upselling. Cameras have their place, but try mechanical with a big snake first. My theory is that those who advertise teaser rates are going to be pushing hard for upselling.

 

[hj]

My longer snakes were ALWAYS either 1./2" or 3/4" and I never ad a problem using the smaller one on 1 1/2" pipes, as long as it was installed properly.

 

[GrumpyPlumber]

I'm with Tuttle, after snaking 35 ft, you've likely passed through the clog and it just recloses, this is likely a kitchen drain.