Replacing the bleed valve for my non-standard radiator

[BillyWillySilly]

I have been unsuccessful in sourcing a radiator bleed key and wondered if it was either rounded off or too small? The valve the other end appears to be tightened by a large flathead screwdriver, and this has something similar. A recent plumber who fitted another more modern radiator was unable to bleed it and now the weather is cold we're feeling it.

Not sure if I should try to replace the valve entirely? The nipple is around 4mm with the valve width itself around 15mm. Failing that I might consider replacing with a spare radiator I have in the garage but would rather just bleed the damned thing.

And yes, previous owners painted nicely over everything...

 

[cross thread]

Pin nose pliers or remove the 1/2 inch bsp threaded vent and fit new one.

 

[terryplumb]

Pin nose pliers or remove the 1/2 inch bsp threaded vent and fit new one.

What 1/2 inch BSP threaded vent would that be ?

 

[terryplumb]

I have been unsuccessful in sourcing a radiator bleed key and wondered if it was either rounded off or too small? The valve the other end appears to be tightened by a large flathead screwdriver, and this has something similar. A recent plumber who fitted another more modern radiator was unable to bleed it and now the weather is cold we're feeling it.

View attachment 288456

Not sure if I should try to replace the valve entirely? The nipple is around 4mm with the valve width itself around 15mm. Failing that I might consider replacing with a spare radiator I have in the garage but would rather just bleed the damned thing.

And yes, previous owners painted nicely over everything...

You could probably get that bleed valve to open with a suitable brass key ,it doesn't look too bad a condition.
Show us the key you are using

 

[cross thread]

 

[terryplumb]

Nice picture ,but nothing like what the OP's radiator can accommodate.

 

[BillyWillySilly]

Here's the key i am using


It barely grips at all.

 

[terryplumb]

You will notice it has tapered,internal edges on the first millimetres. Grind or file that off the bottom of the key.
The key will then go a little further into the vent ,and will grab onto the very bottom of the square spindle . May just allow you to now vent.

 

[BillyWillySilly]

Stone the crows! Worked a treat.

Thanks