Tool for stuck PVC valves?

[denisbaldwin]

I have a number of the little red PVC valves throughout my pump setup to control the skimmer, main drain, intake for the vacuum, etc.etc.

With the pump off, they're still a pain to move with bare hands. Upgrading to a wrench, I've managed to sheer the wings right off from one of them. Is there a tool specifically used to gain leverage on stuck PVC valves? As they are plastic, I'm hesitant to use anything heavy duty (again) but would like something dependable I can always count on.

If only there were PVC valves with long handles like the jandy valves but not ridiculously expensive.

Denis

 

[JohnT]

These are better http://www.seagatefilters.com/images/Single union ball valve 2.0 (400x400).jpg without being insanely high. They are Single Union Ball Valves.

 

[DBfan187]

I use vice grips and channel locks. lol

 

[PoolGuyNJ]

That is the #1 reason why I hate ball valve. #2 is they will leak over some time. Pop the remaining piece of red handle off and use an adjustable wrench. The three way valves in the pictorial glossary also come in a 2 port version. Much more reliable and somewhat more costly, but unless you have additional changes, it's a 1 time fix. If they ever leak, you can replace the guts. No plumbing changes needed.

Scott

 

[waste]

It could be worse

Y'all ever have the misfortune of seeing a Hayward 733 valve ?

 

[denisbaldwin]

It could be worse

Y'all ever have the misfortune of seeing a Hayward 733 valve ?

Heh. My last pool had one. It's the new owner's problem now