Stuck tap changing washer - what to use?

[Lumo]

I'm trying to change a tap washer, the tap is completely stuck and will not come apart, the whole thing turns - I cannot brace the tap from on top or underneath due to the awkward angles things are at.

What's the correct way to loosen it? I've tried WD40.

Would something like the "adjustable basin wrench/spanners" sold on ebay help me either hold the tap in place while turning or take the whole thing off and work on it in less crammed conditions?

Any tips about this would be appreciated.

 

[lagunaglen]

You need to hold the spanner on the top of the tap and then hit the spanner with a hammer which after a few goes nearly always works.

 

[Lumo]

The problem there is the whole tap just moves and loosens, I need some way of holding the tap in place while pushing the spanner on the top of the tap.

 

[gigz]

Put a rag on the spout and use stillsons or similar to stop the tap turning

 

[Lumo]

I've tried that too, even with someone else trying to brace the tap (with pipe spanner and old towel) the whole tap still moves.

 

[spacethegas]

keep tryin.

 

[ChrisR]

Heat - pour boiling water over it a couple of times.
Then there's the blowlamp.

 

[leakydave]

After all this farting about, wouldn't a new tap be a good idea?

 

[Gee101]

I'm trying to change a tap washer, the tap is completely stuck and will not come apart, the whole thing turns - I cannot brace the tap from on top or underneath due to the awkward angles things are at.

What's the correct way to loosen it? I've tried WD40.

Would something like the "adjustable basin wrench/spanners" sold on ebay help me either hold the tap in place while turning or take the whole thing off and work on it in less crammed conditions?

Any tips about this would be appreciated.

Tap headgear wont undo?? sounds like you need the new Easy Eapsplitter, this will get it off. Avoid taking off tap at all costs, just leads to more problems.