Removing tap valve

[tousbous]

Sorry, I know people have posted about this before, and I have read those posts and the helpful responses. However, I still can't get this to work.

I have a tap which is only running at a trickle, so I'm assuming that I need to change the washer. However, when I've opened up the tap I can't get the valve out, no matter how much force I apply. I've tried loosening the valve with boiling water but it doesn't help.

This is the whole tap: View media item 47064
And this is it with the cover off: View media item 47063
I've never had to take one of these apart before, so I'm wondering whether there is something unique about this tap. Any ideas? [/img]

 

[ALEC1]

Keep trying it can be tricky.....just be prepared to replace the whole tap...

 

[Burnerman]

I think you need a better fitting spanner as the insert is getting a bit chewed up now.....the main problem is preventing the tap from turning in the basin.
The insert will unscrew - sometimes they are bloody tight!
John

 

[Charnwood]

PH Crack-It spray or something similar.

 

[vibrobullit407]

Might be an option to try a set of mole grips as you seem to have taken all the edges off the tap body with your pipe grips.

 

[husker199]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AN9imor7o6Y

 

[ChrisR]

A RING spanner is a better thing, touches all 6 points, or try a socket set, sometimes the socket is long enough, at a pinch.
Mole grips will kill or cure!

To stop the tap turning there is the special tool, though I thought it looked a bit flimsy.
Here's another approach, which is the sort of thing I do. Though I now have "plumbers' forearms" which also helps...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TGF39ReBrj0&feature=related

 

[tousbous]

Thanks everyone. Still trying. Might give up and just replace the tap!