DIY Return lines replacement

[stryfer33]

Does anybody know a good width to cut the concrete so that I can get my hands in and down to set pipe and make new connection to return fitting?
I don’t want to go too wide, but I certainly don’t want to be too narrow.

Also, will I have to drill in rebar to old concrete when pouring new concrete over?
Any tips on this would be great as this is the part of the DIY that has me the most nervous.

 

[zea3]

I'm thinking you want at least 18" wide to be able to get both hands in there and have some space to manipulate tools and fittings.

 

[stryfer33]

Wow. That’s a lot wider than I was gonna go. Glad I asked.

 

[zea3]

You can kind of do a dry run before you cut by laying out the tools and pipe you are going to be using and pretend you are trying to cut and attach pipe to see how much space your hands actually need. Lay out a tape measure to give you a better estimate of width.

 

[stryfer33]

That’s a good idea.
Does anyone have any links to threads where people have done this with pictures?

I can’t seem to find any during my searches.

 

[zea3]

I'm going to summon a couple of experts that should be able to help you with this part of your repair.
@JamesW , @bdavis466, @swimcmp

 

[JamesW]

You're probably going to have to be able to get in the hole to do the repair. So, it needs to be big enough for access.

To keep the new patch from sinking, you can cut a small notch or drill in some holes for bolts or rebar.

 

[stryfer33]

Ok. Thanks for the tips!