Can I use a reciprocating saw with a long blade to cut a 4 inch "cast iron?" plumbing pipe?

Question

Or, do I have to use an acetylene torch? I'm not sure it's 4"; it may be a little bigger. I live in an older house, and it is the pipe that eventually goes underground from my toilet. It's at a bad angle under the toilet so I need to cut a piece out and join it back up to shorten it.

Answer 1

Yes you can cut it that way, but I'd buy very good blades and if it's hard to get to, then plan on possibly breaking one or more blades. If you'll put a little oil on the blades while cutting you'll get a lot less heat from friction and lessen the chances of breaking a blade.

Answer 2

If it will fit in the tight space.Buy at least a 6" ( 8" would be even better depends on the stroke of your saw) CARBIDE blade. Its best if you cut thru both sides of the pipe at the same time.They're sold right along side the other blades.
They cost more but it will cut right thru cast iron. Take your time and don't force the blade so you get a nice even clean cut. So when you go to replace the parts they fit better .

Answer 3

I've heard of plumbers scoring and snapping the pipe but don't know how it's done as for the saws all I think all you will do is dull the blades on cast iron depending on weather it's mailable or ductile

Answer 4

Yes, with the proper metal blades you can cut it. You cannot cut cast iron with a torch.

Answer 5

Sure
Make sure that it is a metal cutting blade. It will be a pretty slow cut, but the recip saw should do it just fine.

Answer 6

Absolutely. Use a metal-cutting blade, and let 'er rip. Should do the job just fine.

Answer 7

if it works dont fix it