out of round riser after new valve installation

gfrbrookline

We replaced a radiator valve on a second floor unit and it is leaking steam from the threads below the valve. I am assuming this means the riser pipe became distorted at some point when the new valve was installed.

What are my options?

mattmia2

Probably not? Single strand wicking, teflon tape. Is it cross threaded?

gfrbrookline

It is leaking from the back side of the the threads below the valve body.

gfrbrookline

I am anal and make everyone wrap their valve annually to check for leaks. When I started 50% were leaking and our boiler gave out after 10 years. Don't want to go down that path again.

ethicalpaul

I have ovalized some pipe in my short career in steam system repair.

my experience tells me that if the pipe is ovalized enough for the threads to leak, you aren’t getting the fitting onto it.

can you get some closeup pics from different angles with the paper removed?

Jamie Hall

I'd suggest take it off again, make sure the threads are really clean, then perhaps wicking in the root of the threads, then a few wraps -- almost enough to make it tricky to get the fitting started -- of teflon tape. I like blue monster, some folks don't. Use enough wraps to make sure that the threads are wrapped beyond where you expect the fitting to bottom. Then go for it. Don't be shy about screwing it down!

mattmia2

Are you sure the leak isnt at the packing and running down the back where you can't see it?