Specialist tool needed to remove radiator?

[JamesA]

Are specialist plumber's tools needed to undo the radiator nuts so it can be removed?
I'm having difficulty using 2 adjustable spanners, I just can't seem to keep the valve still in order to be able to turn the nut.
I don't really want to have to go and buy plumbers tools if I can help it so if anyone can help I'd apreciate it.

They're pretty old radiators and so the nuts may have seized up.

 

[EliteHeat]

You're probably trying to tighten them up, try the other way. Once the valve is off you will realise that your problem has only just started! - he he

 

[JamesA]

I was going by what they said on a web site:
"The left hand nut will undo by turning the nut toward you, the right hand one will undo by turning it away from you"

I'll have another go the other way, but I don't I could move it that way either...

 

[Nige F]

you need an adjustable shaped like an F.....the horizontal bars are the adjust. jaws........that`ll hold the valve with a rag round to stop scratching

 

[JamesA]

you need an adjustable shaped like an F.

Thanks. I'll think I'll get the plumber to do it when hes here next.
I suppose it would be a good investment though.

 

[Slugbabydotcom]

I was going by what they said on a web site:
"The left hand nut will undo by turning the nut toward you, the right hand one will undo by turning it away from you"

I'll have another go the other way, but I don't I could move it that way either...

If you are an optimist you will think that the bit that moves towards or away you is the top of the nut. You will be succesful
If you are a pessimist you will think that the bit that moves towards or away from you is the bottom of the nut and you will be a failure

Waterpump pliers are a great all round tool so buy some. If you can get a pair of 10" worlwide™ waterpump pliers they are good value for money if not draper should do for a diyer. Dont buy the cheaper ones they are accidents waiting to happen

 

[JamesA]

I'll either get one from the DIY shop, or what do you think of the basic ones from Screwfix:
http://www.screwfix.com/app/sfd/cat/pro.jsp?cId=A335533&ts=16061&id=36446#

 

[Nige F]

You`ll still need the F`ing spanner OR a special holding tool for the valve body those pliers are the same as an ordinary adjustable...except they open wider by the time youve paid the postage .....go to PTS and get a tool....they cost £10.00

 

[Slugbabydotcom]

Well spotted nigef. Slight error you will need 2 pair of those or one pair and something to stop the valve from spinning / turn the nut
They look ok for the job to me

Don't know if everyone knows this but
Screwfix are opening trade counters all over the place.

 

[ChrisR]

Yes there's a Monument tool:

 

[Slugbabydotcom]

That picture brought back a memory

I bought a special spanner just for use on Conex compression fitting nuts once. Used it a few times in 1983 when we had a bad winter and I was repairing burst pipes in outhouses for the council.

Come to think of it thats the last time I used it.

 

[ChrisR]

They still make a cast open ender I wouldn't be without. It fits where an adjustable won't go. They do a "flare nut" style one as well, not so useful, mine's, um, in the van, somewhere...