allen key size

[Mattherat]

I was trying to change a burst radiator for a friend, but found I did not have the correct size of allen key to remove one of the radiator tails. the biggest I have is 12mm, which was just too small. Can anyone tell me if the standard size for these is 13mm or is it 1/2"?

 

[oilhead]

Buy the proper one with slots cut in one end to locate in the tail.

 

[Bahco]

http://www.screwfix.com/prods/11467/Hand-Tools/Plumbing-Tools/Radiator-Tools/Radiator-Spanner

 

[Mattherat]

without knowing the size of that one it looks exactly like the one I tried to use (it was bought a few months ago for another job, and was sold as a radiator key), but was just too small, it started to catch the fitting but when I put any pressure on it, it just slipped inside the fitting.
The hole was just hexagonal, I didn't see any additional markings where slots might engage

 

[YELLERBELLY]

http://www.transtools.co.uk/store/p...k-keys/rothenberger-radiator-uni-spanner.html

might be not worth buying for a one off job though

 

[MJN]

Some tails can indeed be an odd (larger) size. If you've got a selection of allen keys (or similar) you can usually wedge one in along side your radiator spanner key. This is of course bad use of tools under normal circumstances however given the limited torque required in this scenario it works without issue.

Mathew

 

[kirkgas]

or a properly positioned flat screwdriver along side the allan key, as others have said minimal force required to loosen/tighten so it will prob work

 

[Killerdownhiller]

I second the Allen key and screwdriver method. Just removed mine with a 12mm Allen key and hammered a screwdriver down the side of it.

 

[Gasinayr]

Fit a radiator valve onto the tail tighten fully then keep tightening and the whole lot will come out "Simples"