OK…Only Satan personally could have done this drain.
I’m trying to install some new plumbing on a bath remodel project. Removed the claw foot tub, and the drain pipes are galvanized, with a reducer threaded into the trap. The trap is located right up to a joist, so getting a wrench in there is only possible in one very narrow location. I’ve never seen anything seized up so tight. To undo the fittings I’ve tried copious amounts of Liquid Stench, heating with a torch, and getting as much leverage onto the fitting as I can (which isn’t a lot because of the proximity to the joist). I even bought a monster socket but the fitting is too deep for a socket to get over it. If I can’t figure anything else out so tomorrow I guess I have to cut the trap in half, and hope it isn’t seized to the branch…if it is this is gonna get really ugly. Any other suggestions?
Thanks in advance.
PaulB
Replies
Paul,
You really need to eliminate the galvanized drain pipe all together if possible. You probably know this but galvanized pipe gets a rough coating of rust that turns to a web of rust and catches hair, soap or anything else trying to get down the drain.
Anyway the way we handle the issue is we cut the drain off before the trap and replace the trap using a Fernco coupler usually. If its plastic or copper we use the appropriate method but with the situation you describe recip saw the trap off and install new. DanT
I'm guessing that the galvinized pipe is fitted to a cast iron stack. If so, it is best if you can get all the way back to the stack, and replace the entire drain line. The connections between the galvinized pipe and the cast iron fail, especially after you beat on the other end. Those threads rust out, and the thing cracks.
Thanks guys. Getting back to the drain stack will be diffiuclt at best Bryan, but I am real concerned about manhandling this horror of a drain for the very reasons you're mentioning. As far as Dan's suggestion of the Fernco fitting goes, are you guys of the opinion that they are a good permanent fix? I've always been nervous about burying those someplace.
Thanks
PaulB
Edited 5/25/2005 5:34 pm ET by PaulB
Paul, Fernco fittings are your friend.
Repeat this mantra and find peace with your doubts.
Cast iron and galvanized pipe are the enemy in old homes and buildings. When faced with a battle between you and CI or Galv. turn to your friends Mr. Fernco and Mr. PVC.
Have faith in them.
They will not let you down, and when you are called back to attack the enemy again, they will be waiting for you, as the starting point of the upcoming battle.
Now assume the Lotus position and repeat the mantra.
Dave
LOLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL... Why do I feel like I'm watching Darth Vader and the Emperor? "I hear my Master... and I obey"... Ferncoooo...Fernnnnnnnnnnco
Ferncos have been around awhile now and I un bury one occasionally. Never saw one damaged or even on the verge of a problem. Keep them on both trucks.
The galvanized deal is really a problem and trust me when I tell you if you don't fix it now while the remodel is going on you will be back tearing out some of your nice finish work for the p*ssed customer who wants to know why you wouldn't fix it when you were remodeling the whole thing anyway. If its not in concrete we change it. Plastic drain pipe and fittings are cheap. I always list it on the bill as a no charge and they think I am a hero. Ads value to the job at a low cost and frankly when hooking up the new tub, shower etc its a lot easier. DanT
You jiggle that galvanized pipe and I'll bet the farm you end up with a leak at the joint.FIND A WAY TO GET BACK TO THE STACK!!!
Paul
I just had a similiar experience. Removed galvanized pipe on the advice of the posters here. They were right - best decision I made. Replaced all of it with PVC, including the trap.
Why? See photos. Drain line from a bathtub (only). That puppy was bound to cause me trouble shortly.
Griff