help to get these taps off

[ollski]

Guys I'm doing a bit of a favour for an old dear, friend of a friend and that. The taps on her basin are 40 years old and boxed in underneath. Basically they will not undo, I have taken off the pipe and just need to undo the tightly sealed lock nut. Ordinary tap spanner won't fit as its in a reccess, my halfords 27mm long socket is about 1/4" to short due to the long thread on the tap and I cant access to cut it shorter. Don't want to damage the tap anyway as if it won't come off I will need to reconnect it. Anyone know where to get a longer socket or other tool which may work? Ta.

 

[Maxxy]

I had a similar problem at a place i rent out. Taps were leaking so i went in to replace them, but couldnt undo them. Broke 2 of those funny looking spanners trying it. One was a multi thing, the other was cast iron lol.

Next time i go ill be taking the grinder with me

 

[solo]

Have a look at Machine Mart. They do a set of box spanners that may get you out of this mess. They can be connected together to reach awkward places. Got me out of a bind earlier this year.

 

[solo]

Machine Mart- Metric 5 piece box spanner set + bars 12-27mm - order code 040210202 - £ 14.04 inc VAT. Or Monument do a box spanner for taps which may solve your predicament.

 

[Softus]

Anyone know where to get a longer socket or other tool which may work? Ta.

I would present her with a gift of a new contract basin and some contract taps.

Then you can use the special speedy tap and basin removal tool:

 

[Nige F]

I`ve got a couple of new shires basins+peds.sort of retro fluted things too good to chuck out .brand new if you want to check out courier from sussex to you.....and one that won`t break them into 1000 bits Gratis of course

 

[cozzmic]

Take off the tap tops including the barrels and get a big metal twist bit and drill down the inside of the tap towards the thread. Thread falls off and tap can be removed.

 

[Softus]

I`ve got a couple of new shires basins+peds.

You have a big heart Nige - all power to you.