Can I use WD40 on my radiators?

[Benty666]

Hey room,

Two of the thermostats on my central heating radiators jammed. This isn't much of problem because they are in the on position but I don't want to use them all the time.

I've taken the cap off and tried to turn it using a wrench but it ain't moving. So can I use a lubrican such as WD40 to try and loosen it?
Will this damage anything?

Thanks

Chris

 

[Rico99]

Chris,

Please confirm what you mean by "thermostats".

Are they wheelhead/lockshields or TRVs

Rico

 

[Benty666]

Not sure what those 3 are but it's small and white at the side of each radiator. There is a small cap on top that can be removed with a philips screw underneath it.

Sorry I can't be more help

 

[Rico99]

Chris,

Thats your lockshield, at the other end should be an identical looking valve but with a tap head on it.

If these are stiff then yest by all means use WD40 to loosen up.

What you may find it the gland nut the spindle goes thru may weep when you turn it, but this should just need nipping up to stop the weep.

Rico

 

[Benty666]

I will add a pic in 10 minutes

 

[Benty666]

Untitled

• Benty666
• 23 Jun 2008
• 1

 

[Rico99]

Steve,

That should be the wheelhead end.

The top should just pull off and then you can use your WD40

Rico

 

[Gasguru]

These valves are very poorly designed. There are only a couple of turns (or less) from full open to close. Hold the valve body with grips and try to turn the spindle..(but normally it just shears off ).