Cutting Difficult access copper pipe

[GRedman]

the compression joint with a tap that runs from the mains to the washing machine is leaking vbadly I don't have any special tools (usual basic girlie stuff) but I do have mole grips. I've tried to undo the joint but felt I was about to start sheering off the nut. If I squirt some WD40 or some sort of domestic limescale remover and leave it overnight will it loosen the nuts? Or Is there a way of cutting off the pipe and fixing a new tap joint to feed into the washing machine. The pipe is quite close to the wall - is there some sort of bendy blade that I can hook beind the pipe to saw it thru? I would be extremely grateful for any help you can give me as I'm with out water. Many thanks in anticipation Gillian

 

[Al-Glasgow]

A Pipe slice is small and perfect for tight spaces.

 

[ChrisR]

Usually you can unclip the pipe somewhere to get it away from a wall. Plan ahead - what are you going to do if you get the nut undone??!
Your mole grips can hold the washing machine tap or fitting but you need another spanner to turn the nut.

 

[oilman]

What happens if you try to tighten the nut slightly? (I say slightly, because over doing it can make it worse rather than better, and a spanner on the nut AND the tap is needed as ChrisR has said). If you only have mole grips, do you have two pairs?

 

[bab]

If u r using mole grips on the nut there is a good chance that its no longer round makin it harder to undo. Spanner or adjusable wrench please!

 

[breezer]

if its that bad, and you do want to cut it off small pipe cutter here

 

[garethgas]

If u r using mole grips on the nut there is a good chance that its no longer round makin it harder to undo. Spanner or adjusable wrench please!

uh?? no longer round?
garethgas

 

[garethgas]

Not once have I failed in more years than I care to mention to cut a pipe without a junior hacksaw.
Yes its tricky, yes it can be awkward but thats life Jim
garethgas

 

[Softus]

Not once have I failed in more years than I care to mention to cut a pipe without a junior hacksaw.

Do you mean with?

 

[garethgas]

^^^^
Yes I mean WITH sorry
garethgas