Re using valves

[myrddin]

Hi folks, I want to replace my suction side. I added two jandy never lube valves in the spring to try to stop what may be a suction side leak, it didn't help. Now I want to pull it all out and try again. I saw on YouTube where they were cutting the pvc close to the fitting (valve in my case) then using a torch to heat the pvc then use a screw driver to pry the pvc out so they could get players in and they twisted the pvc till it pealed out... Do you think that works? I want to put my backup pump in with a new suction side... I would like to keep the valves since they are only s few months old.

Thoughts?

Example:
[URL="http://youtu.be/CfezjNDNxNo"]http://youtu.be/CfezjNDNxNo[/URL]

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=1DGRKMfUbwQ

 

[duraleigh]

I have never tried that. It sorta' makes sense but obviously you have to be careful with that torch. I would be afraid to make my first attempt on a valve. Maybe just glue up a scrap PVC joint and practice.

 

[myrddin]

Good idea to practice before trying on the valve... Going to look for some pvc to try that tomorrow.

 

[yostmatt]

I know your pain. I saw a video and want to try it. I have some 2" ball valves from when I re-did my plumbing. I saved them to maybe try it down the road. let us know if you try it out and what your experiences are.

 

[Propbndr]

I would be afraid that the heat would damage the valve seats. You can recover those valves by using a "socket saver".

Example:

http://www.amazon.com/Jones-Stephens-Socket-Saver-Carded/dp/B000HE9YS8

Local plumbing supply stores should carry them too.

I own the 1 1/4" size and have used the 1 1/2" size. They both work very well.

 

[JamesW]

The valves have two sizes. For a 1.5" x 2" valve, the valve takes 1.5" pvc pipe into the hole or a 2" coupling on the outside. For a 2" x 2.5" valve, the valve takes 2" pvc pipe into the hole or a 2.5" coupling on the outside.

If you cut the pipe flush, you can use the other size not yet used.

Another option is to use a pipe extender. A pipe extender glues inside of schedule 40 pvc pipe and leaves about 1.5" of new pipe. I don't like using them on 1.5" pipe as it reduces the diameter too much. A 2" pipe extender is less of a concern as far as diameter is concerned.

 

[jblizzle]

I think I would try a ram bit before torching it. At least we have had a few members post success with a ram bit.

 

[bdavis466]

I have used the torch method with great success. What really helps is that the valves are constructed of CPVC which withstands some heat much better than PVC. Use a heat gun if you are not comfortable with a torch and make sure the valve body is positioned on the opposite side of the valve so it doesn't deform from the heat.

 

[pbhound]

I have seen something similar to these being used on "This Old House".

I would be afraid that the heat would damage the valve seats. You can recover those valves by using a "socket saver".

Example:

http://www.amazon.com/Jones-Stephens-Socket-Saver-Carded/dp/B000HE9YS8

Local plumbing supply stores should carry them too.

I own the 1 1/4" size and have used the 1 1/2" size. They both work very well.

but these would save $$ and they seem to work as well.

 

[myrddin]

Thanks guys!!! Some good ideas I didn't even know about. T plan on cutting it out this weekend... I will follow up and let you know.

 

[Propbndr]

If you have a plumber friend, perhaps they have a set of these and would hook you up for a beer or 2.

 

[myrddin]

James W you have a point... I forgot the valves were both inner and outer installs.. I may do as you stated, and use 2" - 1.5 inch unions to get them back in. I also glued up some scrap to see how the torch method works... and I may order one of those socket savers or one of those ram bits... more to follow... Might be worth trying the ram bit on the valve, if I don't like the end result, I still have the outer diameter to use...

 

[myrddin]

Guys, I wanted to get back to you on this... I tested the burn and re-use method... and it did work... but I would need to practice a few more times to even feel comfortable enough to try... I am going to reuse the valves, but I am just going to use the over method (2 inch outer) then adapt to 1.5... I am afraid I will damage the valve... but I do believe with practice and hard work it will turn out fine... I will post my lame video in a few... I am playing it safe on this one...