I need to disconnect the valve to the tub from the bathtub pipes, unfortunately they are not budging! Help!!!!

Question

The wall to the shower and tub pipes have been removed for this project, so there is plenty of room, I just can not seem to get them unscrewed.

Answer 1

are you sure they are threaded. it might be a socket weld. try heating it up with a propane torch. either way it will loosen from the heat.

Answer 2

Without seeing what you are trying to do it's difficult to say. In some shower valves there is a small locking ring that must be removed before you can unscrew things. try looking for that. Also as someone else suggested, try soaking it. WD-40 works well for this.

I would also suggest you go to the website of the manufacturer and look for a dis-assembly diagram for the unit you have. It will help you see what you need to do.

Good luck

Answer 3

Are you applying a back-up wrench to the pipe? Providing that you have determined that the joint is not sweated, if you have plenty of room like you say, grab the pipe with a small pipe wrench to apply a counter-force when you attempt to unscrew the valve. Otherwise, the flexing of the pipe will prevent you from breaking the threads loose.

Answer 4

Get some penetrating oil and let it set a bit. Probably some corrosion going on.

Answer 5

follew instructions of the first post. DO NOT forget to shut water off first!

Answer 6

try applying heat to the joint. if there is any corrosion it will turn to dust. and any seal tape will loosen up but not too much heat .

Answer 7

You may need a bigger wrench or someone stronger

Answer 8

go to a hardware store they have tons of help stuff