Outdoor Shower-How to properly orient ('clock') multiple threaded connections

pvs2487

I'm replacing my outdoor shower set up. There's a hot/cold valve body with a female thread to accept the pipe/gooseneck for the shower, and a plug that can be removed to add a pipe and shower head for a foot wash.

My goal is to place a quarter turn shut off valve on both the pipe going to the shower, and the pipe going to the foot wash which would function as diverters, so each function can be used independently- not everyone will want to shower in order to wash the sand off their feet.

The issue is that in trying to assemble these parts, I can't get them to line up properly. When the valves are tight and facing out, the gooseneck riser is not in the proper spot (rotated to the right or left). I've tried tightening parts independently, but I've yet to fine the magic spot where everything is leak-free and lined up properly. Do any of the following make sense?

1. Put the valves right before the upper and lower shower heads (I'd prefer them closer to the faucet)
2. Use a lock nut to tighten the connection if they are a bit loose when in proper alignment?
3. Carefully grind off the face of a mating surface to dial in the orientation?
4. Do the job in copper (I prefer the look of chrome plated brass)
5. Anything else?

Thanks for any advise you can provide. I appreciate the valuable information and friendly spirit of this site.

And a shout out to Mr. Ed @EdTheHeaterMan from Cape May, NJ!

Peter Van Syckle

hot_rod

there is always a way to get threaded connections aligned, adjust the teflon tape is one method. Using loctite is another. With loctite just stop turning when things line up. Loctite basically glues the threads together.

Larry Weingarten

Ho, Another approach is to install a union in the line. That way, you can tighten things until they feel right and then snug up the union with the showerhead or foot wash aimed the right way.
Yours, Larry

JUGHNE

This sounds like having the potential for a cross connection between hot and cold supplies.

If someone adjusts the temp using separate H & C valves and then closes both top and bottom valves, the hot can flow into the cold line.

I have found this numerous times even to where someone was watering their lawn with hot/warm water.

Perhaps your valve has backflow or check valves built into it to prevent the cross connection.

EdTheHeaterMan

@pvs2487 , say hello to everyone on Lafayette street for me!

I just had this installed on my wheelchair accessible bathroom. https://www.homedepot.com/p/Barclay-Products-3-Handle-Claw-Foot-Tub-Faucet-with-Hand-Shower-and-Shower-Unit-in-Chrome-4063-MC-CP/202496789. My valve system did not come with the shower curtain holding circular rod. The center valve diverts from the bottom to the top and if you leave it in the center position you get water from both top and bottom. A little pricey for an outdoor shower, but it will get the job done. I can't find the exact model on line but this is what you are looking for.

pvs2487

Thanks for everyone's comments and advice!

Peter

Mad Dog_2

That's an interesting Dutch name Peter.

Was your fambly early settlers in NYC? Mad Dog

EdTheHeaterMan

https://forum.heatinghelp.com/discussion/comment/1801583#Comment_1801583

Are we allowed to ask such questions in public? Isn't NYC a sanctuary city? This might be thought of profiling those that like to put fingers in dikes. Are we even allowed to tell that story anymore?

pvs2487

Mad Dog-

A bit further south than NYC. My grandfather and his brother had the first Dodge agency in New Jersey. It was in Perth Amboy ( Middlesex County), which expanded to about six dealerships before shutting down in 1969. I have a 1959 Dodge Power Giant pick up truck that reminds me of him. He was my North Star. You know how that is.

I have tremendous respect for you and others who maintain the standards of pride and professionalism in your field. It brings to mind that great American Standard ad - 'The Plumber Protects the Health of the Nation'. It was true when first published, and is true today.

Ed The Heater Man- they have been working on Lafayette Street for a year replacing pipes, storm sewers and sidewalks. They need to finish up before the Memorial Day influx of shoobees!

WMno57

Awesome truck!