Funny nut

[PerranOak]

The "tap" where the central heating is drained has a square nut on it.

It's about 8mm square.

I don't have a socket in my set that fits this (or is even square!).

What is the tool called that fits this so that I can search for one?

Thank you.

 

[Harry Bloomfield]

An 'adjustable spanner' ?

 

[PerranOak]

Well true but every time I use one I "round-off" the nut.

 

[Harry Bloomfield]

Well true but every time I use one I "round-off" the nut.

Then you are tightening it too much.

 

[PerranOak]

Indeed. That's why i want the proper tool for this job.

 

[HERTS P&D]

I think you will find the tool is holding the adjustable spanner.



Andy

 

[just pumps]

If it is 12mm across the flats
https://www.oventrop.com/en-GB/products/productgroups/article/1035004/

 

[Harry Bloomfield]

8mm here https://www.lsengineers.co.uk/tool-box-key-8mm-square.html

 

[PerranOak]

It's 8mm. Thanks both.

Andy: You're not wrong but I need other tools to blame for my workmanship!

 

[Jackrae]

If it is 8mm across the flats and you really need/want to use a square socket then get an 8mm hex socket designed to be used with an 8mm driver. Fit the square drive end onto the drain valve spindle and use an 8mm allen key in the hex socket to operate the valve spindle.

 

[PerranOak]

Brill thanks Jackrae.

By the way, can I tighten that nut as tight as I can? It’s pretty tight now and still drips a bit.

 

[just pumps]

Brill thanks all.
By the way, can I tighten that nut as tight as I can? It’s pretty tight now and still drips a bit.

Most likely washer is damaged if it is leaking.

 

[PerranOak]

Damn, thanks.

 

[Jackrae]

Finger tight plus a little bit is all you should need - as JP says, the washer is damaged - probably due to over-tightening

 

[BoilerBob]

A utility key sometimes fits. Bob