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old rad push nipples

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Timco
Timco Member Posts: 3,040
in THE MAIN WALL
Are the push nipples in old rads re-usable after rads have been taken apart or are new nipples needed?

Thanks, Tim
Just a guy running some pipes.

Comments

  • john_171
    john_171 Member Posts: 13
    As long as

    they're not damaged, go ahead and reuse them. Before pushing the sections back together, coat the push nipples with "form a gasket" (available at your local auto parts store)to make a good seal.
  • Jamie Hall
    Jamie Hall Member Posts: 26,844
    eh?

    if you do use form a gasket -- or red RTV, also auto supply -- make sure it is very very thin indeed, or you are going to have a heck of a time pulling the sections back together. I usually put a bead of red RTV on the face of the section (having cleaned it -- wire brush -- very thoroughly) just outside the push nipple, and just make sure the nipple and its seat are very clean. Haven't had a problem doing that...
    Br. Jamie, osb
    Building superintendent/caretaker, 7200 sq. ft. historic house museum with dependencies in New England
  • john_171
    john_171 Member Posts: 13
    Never had a problem

    with it yet, and I've put quite a few rads together with it; though most any type of sealant would work as well I suppose. I just stick to form a gasket as it's worked for me. Remember, the seal occurs at the push nipple--not the boss outside the nipple. You are right though--the nipple itself and its seat must be clean and without any damage, or the rad will leak!
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