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Tapping Hole for Vent

tom_54
tom_54 Member Posts: 46
in THE MAIN WALL
I need to tap a second vent hole (1/8 in.) into a one pipe steam radiator. Can someone provide instructions and tools/bits to use? Any help would be appreciated.

Comments

  • Fred Harwood
    Fred Harwood Member Posts: 261
    Tapping vent hole

    Go to your hardware store and get a 1/8 npt tap. Usually the tap lists the drill bit size needed. Best to start smaller and move up the the listed size in three bits. Go slow, drill steady and straight into the spot you choose (about a third of the way up the rad on the end), then carefully tap, and you'll be amazed how easy it can be.
  • tom_54
    tom_54 Member Posts: 46


    Thanks. Can I practice on black pipe?
  • Fred Harwood
    Fred Harwood Member Posts: 261
    Practice

    Radiators are cast iron. Black pipe seldom is, and the drilling characteristics are very different. Best to pratice on an old cast iron pipe fitting, which most fittings are. What's important is to drill and tap cleanly and squarely into the object, so that your vent will screw in without hitting anything else
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