Hi,
I have an older house (1940) that a cast iron drain (stack) and galvanized drains for the tubs and sinks. The tubs and sinks connect to the stack with lead and oakum joints. I need (due to blockages and corrosion) to replace the galvanized. I will go with ABS as that seems to be the choice out here in Seattle.
I would like to connect the ABS to the CI using a rubber “donut” connected at the hubs on the stack. I would also like to increase drain size from 1 1/2″ to 2″. The hub is large enough to accomodate 2″ with a rubber donut connection if I was able to get the lead and oakum out. I prefer not to cut the CI if possible. I’m concerned about cracking the stack in the process. Also the 1 1/2″ galvanized has been removed from one of the hubs already. It left behind a clean 1 1/2″ hole in the hub – the lead joint is still there. So in this case the option of cutting the galvanized and putting a Fernco coupler on the joint isn’t an option anymore.
What is the best way to remove lead and oakum and what is likelihood of doing this successfully (i.e. not cracking the stack in the process.) Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks!
Replies
Removing the lead & oakum is easy if the pipe is already out of the way.
Hammer & old chisel or old screwdriver, lead is soft & plyable--- it will give before the hub does.
I have used a torch on occasion gets a bit smoky & stinks a bit
Then save the lead I need new downrigger weights. LOL
Just finished chiseling it out. Came out like a charm, I just chiseled slowly with 1/4" wood chisel, nibbling away at it then cut a channel in the lead to the CI. I was then able to slowly pry back the rest of the lead and pulled out the oakum. The Fernco biscuit and 2" ABS went in without a hitch. Many thanks!
John
No problem.
I have worked on many of those old houses in Seattle & Tacoma over the years.