How to remove shower tap spindles behind dry wall?

[OliviaT]

Hi there,

I’m trying to fix a leaking shower and the spindles are not moving.

I’ve tried using a copious amount of penetrative oil to no avail.

I’ve been using the Irwin tap spanners but it’s too stuck or I’m not strong enough.

I’ve got a piper wrench that did a wonderful job at unscrewing every other tap spindle I’m my bathroom.

Unfortunately because these spindles are too deep behind the dry wall, I cannot reach them with the pipe wrench.

Any suggestion ?

 

 

[EricL]

Hello @OliviaT 

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

I propose slotting the Irwin tap spanner as snug as possible onto the spindle. Remove the turning bar off the Irwin tool and instead use your plumbers wrench on the square part of the Irwin tool. If you have a mate close by you can ask them to push the Irwin tool towards the spindle as you turn it with the wrench so that there is no possibility of it lifting out. Please note that it must be turned anticlockwise to loosen it up.

If you've given this technique a go and it still does not want to turn, I suggest engaging the services of a licensed plumber. They will have the necessary tools and techniques to loosen up your seized spindle.    

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

Eric

[OliviaT]

Thank you Eric!!! Genius!!

it worked on the cold tap.

I’m about to try the hot tap now!! 

[MitchellMc]

That's great to hear @OliviaT. Fingers crossed for the other one.

Mitchell