Nut won't turn on tap

[Twofingertyper]

Hi all,

On my mixer tap (hot) there's a nut where you remove the filter, etc - but it's currently impossible to turn, and it looks like the previous owner had similarly struggled as it's edges are quite smooth (so wrenches don't get a firm grip).

What's the best way to deal with this? Are there tricks for getting a decent grip on a nut to remove it and then replacing it with a new one when refitting?

There's lots of suggestions of Google - tried lubrication, muscle won't work if I can't get a solid grip (and even then who knows)... Obviously in the end I could replace the whole tap anyway, but I'd like to try to fix it first.

Thanks,
TFT

 

[ETAF]

as it's edges are quite smooth (so wrenches don't get a firm grip).

is a photo possible
mole grips, locking pliers, joint pliers , pipe pliers

I have a set of self adjusting grips, purchased from ideal home many years ago, cant find online the same set, but they been very useful
can only find, what looks like a poor version
https://www.sealantsandtoolsdirect....ch_spanner_set_9mm_to_32mm_947044_P30407.html

 

[Twofingertyper]

Will try to get a picture; imagine a bolt that has clearly had a hard life and it's edges look a bit smoother because of it and you won't be far wrong.

Self-adjusting grips sound like an idea, something that can fit around and grip firmly would be great, my pipe pliers are not the best quality and it may be why they are struggling to provide any real traction.

 

[ETAF]

mole grips maybe better , as they can LOCK on, if you can get them into the space OK
NOTE , just a diy'er but have used mole grips on knulled connectors , on a shower attachment, that would not shift before, just being careful not to bend the material - BUT a nut should be good
These seem cheap enough and reviews look OK, for a one off job, or if doing more of this type of work, you may want a better quality set
https://www.screwfix.com/p/locking-...V0O7tCh39iwgxEAQYASABEgLvfPD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

 

[Twofingertyper]

Sorry - two poor quality photos as promised.

Probably needs a new nut if I get this one off!

 

[oldbuffer]

1. I don't think you'll find any filters in there. Looks like (it once was) the hexagon nut to remove the cartridge.
2. Stilson wrench would be the best bet, if not, then pipe grips.
3. With either stilsons or grips:
3a. Open end of jaws towards the wall.
3b. Lock on as firmly as you can.
3c. Push handles towards the wall.
3d. Try pouring boiling water over the joint just before loosening. Differential expansion might be enough to break seal.
4. The hexagon is integral with the cartridge, you won't be able to buy the "nut" on its own.
5. Might be less trouble to replace the taps.

 

[Twofingertyper]

5. Might be less trouble to replace the taps.

Thanks! I’m thinking your last point is very true, if I loosen this then will I be able to tighten it again? Will loosening it end up causing damage?

It’s not a massive drip problem currently, so I’ll just buy some new taps for when it becomes too annoying...

 

[RayCaister]

Someone in the past has cross threaded and or used thread locker when tightening the cartridge. It's scrap. Time for a new one..... https://www.screwfix.com/p/franke-athena-monobloc-mixer-tap-chrome/1463p

 

[Lower]

What the likelihood of it being a left hand thread? The notches that should be present in the flats if it was aren't visible because of the damage.

 

[Keithmac]

By the time you've undone that it will be scrap!.