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Radiator inlet valves

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Jim_20
Jim_20 Member Posts: 3
in THE MAIN WALL
I have a couple leaky radiator inlet valves in my hot water system. I haven't taken one apart before, and wonder if I should. Are there any concerns I should be cognizant of whentrying to fix the valves and for that matter, how do I fix them? The water is leaking from the nut that holds the stem on- it's coming out where the stem exits the nut.

Thanks for the comments.

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  • HeavyP
    HeavyP Member Posts: 52
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    heres the fix

    Take pliers and tighten the nut you see. It'll probably be a little tight but it should take 3 to 4 complete turns. Use all your strength.HR
  • Mike T., Swampeast MO
    Mike T., Swampeast MO Member Posts: 6,928
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    Sometimes you can just tighten the nut to stop the leaking--just don't go TOO far as they are brass and soft.

    Otherwise, you have to replace the packing.

    System must be drained--or at least below the level of the valve.

    Remove the top (smaller) nut on the valve. As always, it's a VERY good idea to use TWO wrenches in "opposition" to one another to prevent turning (or stressing) things where you don't want.

    Once you have the nut completely free (you'll probably have to remove the handle as well) you have to remove the old packing bonnet. Likely you won't even be able to see it as it will appear identical to the brass threads. Turn the valve a bit with the handle to see where it "breaks" and carefully pry out the packing.

    I'm not sure if original-style bonnets are still made. If you can't find an exact match that's pre-made, you can use the teflon "rope" sold for the purpose.
  • Jim_20
    Jim_20 Member Posts: 3
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    I tried that already.
  • HeavyP
    HeavyP Member Posts: 52
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    Bigger Wrench

    Its probably old right? ok take the biggest plier or even wrench that will fit on there and really, really, really put some muscle into it. like i said 4 to 5 complete turns
  • Jim_20
    Jim_20 Member Posts: 3
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    Fair enough- I tend to be a little easy on the pipes as "old" may be an understatement.
  • HeavyP
    HeavyP Member Posts: 52
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    No Steamhead

    I think he means the packing nut. you only tighten it 1/4 turn, or you will split the nut and have to change the whole valve. If after ONLY a 1/4 turn it doesnt stop leaking you need to either replace the packing or change the valve. DO NOT TIGHTN MORE THEN A 1/4 TURN. Hector
  • paul lessard_2
    paul lessard_2 Member Posts: 192
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    who is this guy

    did you use too much "pipe" dope today?
    why the HR signature? where is steamhead
    edit........ 10 min later ah ha stemhead check the spelling!
  • Steamhead
    Steamhead Member Posts: 16,842
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    Those two previous posts were not from me

    looks like someone doesn't have anything better to do.

    Jim, Mike T.'s post is correct. If you've tightened that nut as far as it will go, the packing underneath is worn and needs replacing. DO NOT over-tighten the nut.

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