I’m connecting new 4″ PVC to old CI that’s been in the ground for a LONG time. This is the main sewer line so no significant pressure, but I’ve got a drip/drip/drip leak from the (higher) CI side. This is a horizontal section just prior to the new PVC dropping vertically. Part of the problem is the band clamp ‘slips’ right at the point it needs to get tight–and I’ll get a new one when in town next–but I wonder if it still leaks with a better clamp, and a really good cleaning of the CI, if there’s some kind of caulk or sealant I could use between the Fernco rubber and the CI?
Thanks.
Replies
Make sure it's sized for pvc to CI.
I would replace the clamp. Even a plastic tie if you can get it tight enough might work as a temporary fix.Any hardware store,even auto supplier has the clamps if the plumbing supply house is far away.
mike
For a horizontal joint in CI you need the type of Fernco that has a solid metal wrapper around the middle section, vs just clamps on each end.
When you have it apart, check the end of the CI for cracks or imperfections that could be causing the leak.
As DanH mentioned, older cast iron will have casting marks in them at the seams from the casting molds and makers marks. These need a bit of grinding sometimes to get the gasket to sit properly....that's not a mistake, it's rustic