I Can't remove valve cover for my Bathroom Tap

[dmassey]

Help !
I am tring to replace the valve on my bathroom tap which is dripping badly.

I can easily remove the tap head to expose the valve but cant remove the valve cover. The valve cover is smooth all over so i cant get a spanner on to it. I have tried a mole wrench but it just keeps slipping even though I have used a rubberised protector to try to prevent scratching the cover. I still managed to scratch the tap cover so i have bought a new tap head and cover but need to to be able to get the existing cover off first.

Image is attached to show you what it looks like.

Any suggestions??

Thanks
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• dmassey
• 18 Nov 2009
• 1

UPDATE!!!
For all you guys that gave advice on this - A Big Thank You!
I managed to remove the cover using boiling water as advised, and also using the wrench at the top of the cover rather than the bottom end where the thread is. Thanks Again.

 

[tryitandsee]

Try these http://www.screwfix.com/prods/26843/Hand-Tools/Pipe-Wrenches/Forge-Steel-Pipe-Wrench-14 with a cloth wrapped around head to protect tap from wrench teeth.

 

[ChrisR]

Heat helps
First try pouring boiling water over it. If no go, then a blowlamp at the top.

DOn't put squeezing grips like those stillson pattern down where the thread is. Usually sharp grips near the top, work, and any marks are covered by the cross.

 

[kevplumb]

howdy stranger

 

[Whitespirit66]

I use one of these 'Boa' rubber strap wrenches for this task.

http://www.tool-up.co.uk/shop/diy/BOAOPS.html

The more you turn them, the more they grip. Make sure that the cover you are removing is clean (ie. free from grease, soap scum, etc), as the tool will slip otherwise. An effective tool, which won't damage anything.

Been & queued sell one in the plumbing dept. if you need one quickly.

Strap wrenches that you use to remove car oil filters also work well (the fabric strap type, not the chain ones).