This is in continuation to a question I posted earlier today.....In trying to remove the shut-off valve (that is for a dishwasher hookup) from the main hot water line under the kitchen sink, it just turns and turns and turns in the same spot w/out showing any threading.How to I get this removed so that I can either replace it or put a stopper on it so it will quit leaking?
Hi, Turning and turning...The valve on the pipe? If the pipe appears smooth copper it is probably a compression fitting. A compression fitting has a metal ferrul that gets compressed into the copper tube by the action of the nut being tightened onto the valve. The hex shaped nut must be unthreaded from the valve to remove such a fitting. If you go to the hardware store and find a clever salesperson, they can show you how that type of fitting comes apart. Flare fittings also turn and turn until you remove the nut from the hardware. I hope that helps. Louie
If you have copper pipes attached to the valve, they need to be heated with a propane torch and remove the valve. Once this is done install a new valve by sweating in new solder joints. Many sites show how to do this in detail and isn't that difficult. If the valve is attached with nuts, remove them and get new ones with the new valve. Make sure to use teflon tape on the threads when installing and tighten.
It sounds like a compression fitting.Use two wrench's. Hold the bottom nut with one then turn the valve with the other. If this doesn't do it then use a tubing cutter below the valve (assuming the line is copper) and cut off the old valve and put a new compression valve on.
if the valve handle just turns and turns and never stops the stem is broken off on the inside. Behind the handle of the valve there is a nut about 1 in size, loosen this nut, when it gets loose turn the valve handle in the on direction and the valve handle should spin out. remove the broken pieces from the inside of the valve and replace it with the guts from a new valve. When you tighten the nut back in place make sure the valve is in the open position. Then close the valve. Turn the water back on and open the new valve, if water drips from around the handle of the new valve, tighten the nut a little more.
I'm sorry but your best bet is to get a friend or a plumber, you stated before you didn't have much $$ but if you don't fix this it will lead to more $$$. If you can find another shut off valve to turn off the water leading to your kitchen you should this way you can use your other water sources like toilet and shower until you can decide what your going to do. As I said before your going to need a torch and other things that I thing you should leave to a professional.
