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How do I get this valve removed and pipe extended

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melo
melo Member Posts: 96
in Strictly Steam

put new floors and now the valve is too low. I can’t get a good grip on the pipe to unthread the valve.

Is there a tool for that? Also, I’m assuming I would have to unthread pipe then put a union and then the valve? I just need an inch more.

IMG_0220.jpeg

Comments

  • Mad Dog_2
    Mad Dog_2 Member Posts: 8,361

    You have to use a large pipe wrench and maybe a long cheater pipe over the handle for some serious fulcrum. Keep in mind, its always wise to hold back on the pipe with an opposing force wrench.

    If that doesn't work, carefully slice the brass valve off. Dont cut too deep. Mad Dog

    Consulting by Mad Dog & Matt Jr.
    Intplm.
  • geemalar
    geemalar Member Posts: 58

    No steam expert here, but I just replaced 2 similar valves in my house. With patience, it's actually kind of easy to cut them off.

    I cut an approximate 30% section off the bottom of the brass valve using a hacksaw. As you get closer to the threads of the vertical pipe, get as close as you feel comfortable with but not hitting the threads. Take a chisel and hammer off the section you cut. Naturally you want to try and hammer outward the cut section from the vertical pipe. It should snap right off. Once it does, it should unscrew easily.

    I didn't event attempt to try and just unscrew them, as the vertical pipes went into a section of my basement that was finished. My concern was somehow damaging the feed pipe and having to tear away sheetrock for access in order to repair.

  • EBEBRATT-Ed
    EBEBRATT-Ed Member Posts: 19,172

    An angle grinder with a cutting disk will speed things up but don't go crazy and nick the pipe.

    A Dremel tool will probably work as well but will take longer and use a few blades.

  • pecmsg
    pecmsg Member Posts: 6,673

    Are the floors in already?

  • EdTheHeaterMan
    EdTheHeaterMan Member Posts: 11,453

    Of course the union part should releas easily with a 18" or 24" pipe wrench and pulling UP. If that valve was on the other side of the radiator, the pipe wrench would be pushed DOWN.

    To remove the valve from the vertical pipe, you can try two wrenches with a come-a-long. That has worked for me many times

    Edward Young Retired

    After you make that expensive repair and you still have the same problem, What will you check next?

  • hot_rod
    hot_rod Member Posts: 26,254

    A large and small hammer can be used to loosen stubborn threaded nuts and joints.

    Hold the heavy hammer against the nut, tap the opposite side of the nut with the smaller hammer.

    This loosens and maybe stretches the nut enough to unscrew.

    safety glasses and gloves are a good idea.

    Screenshot 2025-11-26 at 5.43.17 PM.png
    Bob "hot rod" Rohr
    trainer for Caleffi NA
    Living the hydronic dream
  • DanielDAY
    DanielDAY Member Posts: 25

    Everyone has great advice for getting the valve off but why not cut the holes in the floor to get the radiator at the same height? I just went to a customer who put tile down and whoever did the tile had the smart idea of cutting four holes for each leg so that no piping needs adjusted. All you have to so is detached the radiator from the valve or valves by undoing the unions. Make sure to mark where the legs are before moving the radiator

    mattmia2

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