Best tool for taking out this old ball valve?

[spader]

Is it just a stub of pipe on top of the tee, or does it feed something else?

It is capped on the top. I was also wondering why it is so. Could it be something to do with trying to reduce water pressure or noise?

 

[spader]

If it's just the washer, which it most likely is, you don't need to remove the valve. Withdraw the split-pin and remove the arm. Unscrew the end cap and remove the plunger. Depending on the type, you might need to unscrew the bit that holds the washer.

Sure, great point actually. I will try to do that before commencing the work.
But by the way the valve looks, it seems quite uncommon. I have never seen that type of or look of valve in youtube.
Was wondering, if it uses the standard sized washer. But will give it a go before anything ado.
I have ordered a plumbers washer kit to do another job - the bathroom basin tap not working. Hopefully one of the washers in the kit will fit in there. Work never ends in this old house.

 

[denso13]

It is capped on the top. I was also wondering why it is so. Could it be something to do with trying to reduce water pressure or noise?

It was an old method of stopping a water hammer, but it didn't really work.

You can remove it and just put the pipe straight in to the ballcock.

 

[spader]

It was an old method of stopping a water hammer, but it didn't really work.

You can remove it and just put the pipe straight in to the ballcock.

Great info and advice, thank you.

 

[fixitflav]

But by the way the valve looks, it seems quite uncommon. I have never seen that type of or look of valve in youtube.

They were all like that at one time. You might need to warm the plunger up to unscrew the end, knacker the washer but it's had it anyway. A kit of washers should have one that fits.

Diaphragm type better if you do end up replacing it.