Disassemble the Fitting — Remove the Old Angle Stop
Part of project
How to Replace a Leaky Angle Stop (Shutoff Valve) Under Your Sink · Step 4 of 10
In this video
Use two large pipe wrenches to break the seal on the old pipe fitting. Position one wrench on the main pipe to hold it steady and prevent it from turning. Place the second wrench on the fitting you need to remove. Apply force in a counter-clockwise direction to loosen the fitting. Once it's loose, you can unscrew it the rest of the way by hand.
Goal: Separate the leaking components
- If the fitting is stuck, you can try applying a penetrating lubricant and letting it sit for a few minutes before trying again.
Used in this video
- Pipe Wrench (brand: Not specified, Tool Type: Plumbing Tools, Power Source: Manual, Material: Steel, Size/Weight: Large) — Gripping and turning the pipe and fittings to loosen and tighten them.
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FAQs
What should I do if the old compression nut and ferrule are seized onto the copper pipe?
Apply penetrating oil, like Blaster PB Penetrating Oil, directly to the nut and ferrule. Allow it to soak for 15-30 minutes before attempting to loosen it again with your adjustable wrench. If it's still stuck, you may need to carefully cut the old ferrule off with a small hacksaw or specialized tool, taking care not to damage the copper pipe itself.
How can I prevent leaks after installing the new angle stop?
Ensure the copper pipe is clean, smooth, and free of burrs or scratches where the new ferrule will sit. Hand-tighten the compression nut first, then use your adjustable wrench to tighten it an additional half to three-quarters of a turn. Avoid overtightening, as this can damage the ferrule or pipe, but ensure it's snug enough to prevent drips.
Do I really need to shut off the main water supply for this project?
Yes, absolutely. Shutting off the main water supply is crucial to prevent significant flooding when you remove the old valve. Always relieve any remaining water pressure by opening a nearby faucet after shutting off the main supply, before starting work under the sink.
How long should this project typically take for a beginner?
For a DIY beginner, expect this project to take approximately 1 to 2 hours. This accounts for time to gather tools, carefully follow each step, and troubleshoot minor issues like a stubborn old valve or initial small leaks. Taking your time will help ensure a successful installation.
Disassemble the Fitting — Remove the Old Angle Stop
Part of project
How to Replace a Leaky Angle Stop (Shutoff Valve) Under Your Sink · Step 4 of 10
In this video
Use two large pipe wrenches to break the seal on the old pipe fitting. Position one wrench on the main pipe to hold it steady and prevent it from turning. Place the second wrench on the fitting you need to remove. Apply force in a counter-clockwise direction to loosen the fitting. Once it's loose, you can unscrew it the rest of the way by hand.
Goal: Separate the leaking components
- If the fitting is stuck, you can try applying a penetrating lubricant and letting it sit for a few minutes before trying again.
Used in this video
- Pipe Wrench (brand: Not specified, Tool Type: Plumbing Tools, Power Source: Manual, Material: Steel, Size/Weight: Large) — Gripping and turning the pipe and fittings to loosen and tighten them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if the old compression nut and ferrule are seized onto the copper pipe?
Apply penetrating oil, like Blaster PB Penetrating Oil, directly to the nut and ferrule. Allow it to soak for 15-30 minutes before attempting to loosen it again with your adjustable wrench. If it's still stuck, you may need to carefully cut the old ferrule off with a small hacksaw or specialized tool, taking care not to damage the copper pipe itself.
How can I prevent leaks after installing the new angle stop?
Ensure the copper pipe is clean, smooth, and free of burrs or scratches where the new ferrule will sit. Hand-tighten the compression nut first, then use your adjustable wrench to tighten it an additional half to three-quarters of a turn. Avoid overtightening, as this can damage the ferrule or pipe, but ensure it's snug enough to prevent drips.
Do I really need to shut off the main water supply for this project?
Yes, absolutely. Shutting off the main water supply is crucial to prevent significant flooding when you remove the old valve. Always relieve any remaining water pressure by opening a nearby faucet after shutting off the main supply, before starting work under the sink.
How long should this project typically take for a beginner?
For a DIY beginner, expect this project to take approximately 1 to 2 hours. This accounts for time to gather tools, carefully follow each step, and troubleshoot minor issues like a stubborn old valve or initial small leaks. Taking your time will help ensure a successful installation.