Plumbing: how to pull a compression sleeve and nut?

Question

I've got to replace an old valve (pre-1976) under my bathroom sink. Just my luck, they changed the threads and the old compression nut will not fit the new valve. I have the tool I need, the "compression sleeve nut puller," which slightly resembles a wine-bottle opener, with two wings that attach behind the nut, and a center crank that should pull the nut off. However, when I try to use it, the wings snap off of the nut as I turn the crank, rather than pulling the nut & sleeve off. Any ideas (besides paying a professional)?

Answer 1

I have cut the compression rings with a small saw and than pulled of the nut to replace it with a new nut and ring...A dremel tool with a cutting wheel works the best...


Tokes The Union Plumber

Answer 2

I usually use a hacksaw blade by hand when I need to do this. I normally cut the sleeve at about a 45 degree angle and then use a flat blade screwdriver to pry it open and off. The nut will then come off. You might want to watch for an indention in the copper pipe that the old sleeve left. I hope this helps.

Answer 3

The brass band used in clinch fittings bites into the tubing when the nut is tightened and do not come off. Use a tubing cutter and cut the tube behind the 'wedding band' and start over.

Answer 4

Tokes45 is right, also, I have used a pliers. Gently, very gently, grasp the ring with the pliers and slightly twist the ring and, at the same time gently pull it toward the end. If, just "if" the one putting it one didn't give it a gorilla twist to tighten it, you may be able to slide it off, I've done it many times.

Answer 5

Best and cheapest thing to do is go to the hardware store and get the "modern", flexible hoses to hook up a new faucet. You may need to put in valves under the sink if you don't have them as the new hoses are made to fit on3/8 compression valves. These hoses usually run under $10 each....
Good luck!!!