How to remove plastic cog from 60s shower tap?

[izozo]

Hey, does anyone know how to remove this stubborn plastic cog? It's a shower tap from the 60s I think so it's kinda old. It might need some oil/lubricant? Any help is greatly appreciated, thanks.

[EricL]

Hello @izozo 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about wall taps.

I suggest using the Haron Tap Handle Puller on the plastic cog. The clamps of the handle puller should be able to go under the plastic cog and pull it out. Another option is to use a heat gun, put the heat gun to its highest setting to soften up the plastic and then pull it off using long nose pliers. Please note that it will heat up the brass spindle tip as well so please make sure to wear personal protection such as thick gloves and goggles when working around items that have been heated up.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

[izozo]

Hi Eric,

I used the Haron Tap Handle Puller you suggested and successfully removed the plastic cog. 

I am now stuck trying to remove the spindle from the socket as it seems quite difficult for me. I've tried using an Irwin tap spanner and twist counter-clockwise but it does not budge at all. I've also tried soaking it with WD-40 but it's not helping. Any suggestions? Cheers

 

 

[EricL]

Hello @izozo 

I suggest using the Irwin tap spanner in combination with the Trojan 350mm Pipe Wrench. Slot the spanner snugly onto the spindle and clamp the pipe wrench onto the end of the tool. You should now have enough leverage to turn the spindle and take it off. 

Please note that by using this technique there is a risk that it could twist the spindle base and kink the copper pipes in the wall. If you are not certain in regards to taking this risk, I suggest engaging the services of a licensed plumber and having the spindle professionally removed.

Let me call on our experienced members @Dave-1 and @Nailbag for their recommendations.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[Dave-1]

Afternoon @izozo 

You are pretty much following the route I would, All I can add is to replace the metal bar with a longer screwdriver to supply more torque to the twisting effect. Sometimes a short sharp "twist" will loosen the threads. As @EricL as said you could also kink the base of the fitting 😕 I havnt done so but its always inthe back of my mind.

The wrench would also provide a bunch of fource with teh longer arm as well

Dave

[Nailbag]

Hi @izozo 

Just checking you're accessing this hex section within the tiles? Other than gaining longer leverage with a screwdriver through the pipe wrench as @Dave-1 suggested, I would leave it to a local plumber to remove. Because if there is any damage, they will then have to rectify it.

Nailbag