kennedy valves-a question for the old timers....

bob young

kennedy gate valves were the most over-rated valves ever manufactured. forget about holding tight ---the chance of the spindle snapping is about 99 % positive to happen. it was a JENKINS knock-off. what a piece of garbage. inferior metal.

john_27

kennedy Compression valves

does anyone remember those large old valves on turn of the century coal fired systems? They were used to close off sections of piping to work on without dousing the coal fire. problem is....how do they turn? i've loosened the top nuts, and get only a quarter turn..if that..any thoughts, links, or advice?

Ken_40

These are simply

gate valves that are stuck.

To make it operable, you will need to remove the packing bonnet and remove the gate assembly. Polish the gate with fine sandpaper on a plate and the internals with a stone or fine file. It was never meant to be a true positive stop, but an excellent "service and adjusting" valve. Repack the rising stem with graphited packing "string." If you force it, you'll snap the riser thread(s).

Good luck!