Seized up stop cock in loft

[mike004]

A stop cock/tap in the loft is seized up.
It's similar to this type, basically a brass tap with compression fittings:
http://www.screwfix.com/prods/31490/Plumbing/Brassware/Flowflex-15mm-Stop-Cock

I've tried WD40. Any other ideas?

 

[HERTS P&D]

Undo the gland nut and apply some WD40, then turn handle both ways to loosen the scale internally to release the stopcock.

Andy

 

[WabbitPoo]

will loosening the gland nut cause it to leak? if so, turn off the supply first! if not, ignore me

 

[Morris40]

if you're brave enough you can apply heat with a blow torch, that usually works, be REALLY careful though

 

[Nige F]

Turn the water off @ the incoming main - undo the comp. nuts on the roof stopcock - remove and bin it , fit another one Spend that £3.50

 

[Morris40]

chances are the old gate valve in the loft ( depending on age ) the union nuts will have a different thread to any new one so you will have to remove the old nuts and olives, make sure if you fit a new valve buy a Pegler gate valve

 

[Jake1886]

I wouldn't fit a gate valve on a cold main. Be better if you used a ballofix or stop cock.

 

[Morris40]

sorry yes i'd agree, forgot it was rising main, not baal-o-fix though

 

[Jake1886]

A ballofix should be ok for a local means of isolation imho. Although I prefer lever valves.

 

[mike004]

Undo the gland nut and apply some WD40, then turn handle both ways to loosen the scale internally to release the stopcock.

Andy

I presume the gland nut is the uppermost nut (see pic).
I'll try this, but I'm terrified of breaking a joint in the pipework if I use too much pressure.
Stopcock is soldered in. Replacing it would mean getting the hacksaw out.
View media item 30195

 

[joe-90]

Replacing it would mean getting the hacksaw out.

That would be truly awful wouldn't it.

 

[Nige F]

Replacing it would mean getting the hacksaw out.

That would be truly awful wouldn't it.

you`re a one , Joe . So it`s probably a Yorkshire one - so it`s a set of stillsons on the body and a bigger set on the stem - then take the b`gger apart ( mains off first of course) It`ll stand it

 

[mike004]

So you reckon the joint will take it if I just go at it with a wrench?

 

[HERTS P&D]

Hold the body of the stop cock with a pair of grips, then undo the gland nut with an adjustable spanner. Then the handle should be able to be turned.

Andy

 

[WabbitPoo]

Top tip - have an alternative ready to fit, especially at this time on a Sunday afternoon. No good realising you need a bit, only to find Q&B is shut!