|
Q: What is the best tool to use for tightening a basin tap?
A: Try a BASIN SPANNER, the sort with the movable head is best.
The head swings over 180 degrees, for loosening or tightening. This type is available from SCREWFIX, number 14631. See the hints section (TAPS) for correct placement of nylon and rubber washers. This spanner will work on the tap connector nut as well. If space is very restricted, try the FIXED BASIN WRENCH (SCREWFIX NUMBER 13294).
Q: I need to remove some screws that have strange shaped heads, what do I need?
A: If the screws have a star shaped centre, then these are TORX or star screws. Most of the standard “screwdriver bit sets” contain 3 or more of the most popular size.If the heads have a small “pip” inside, they will be security screws. You will need a Security Bit Set. SCREWFIX sell a standard sized 33 bit set (D18983) at around £10, but for £15 you can get the 75mm long set (D95315). These are better for removing recessed screws
Q: I need to remove some screws that appear to be like TORX bolts, what tool is used for this?
A: If the screws have a star shaped head, but not hollow, these will ned FEMALE TORX bits to remove them. Some toasters ans other small appliances are starting to use these now, instead of the normal TORX screws. Try one of the following links for bit sets (look for sets with E numbered bits):
http://www.toolspot.co.uk/category/hex-torx-and-spline-keys-drivers-and-sets
http://www.tradepriced.co.uk/tool_socket_set.html
http://www.toolfinder.co.uk/catalog/advanced_search_result.php?keywords=torx&search_in_description=1&gclid=CJ_45vry2IECFUFDGgodph68xg
Q: I need to replace the immersion heater, what is the best tool to use to remove it?
A: You can obtain an IMMERSION WRENCH from most good plumbers merchants. It looks like a very large socket spanner with a rod though it. SCREWFIX sell one for about £6, number 11105.
Q: How do I cut copper pipe in a restricted space?
A: Try a “mini-tube cutter” (adjustable from 3mm to 22mm) from most good plumbers merchants, or SCREWFIX, number 18941, at £2.29. There are also “Automatic Pipe Cutters” that are circular, and will rotate in a restricted space. These are not adjustable, so you will need one for 15mm (SCREWFIX number 12468), and one for 22mm (SCREWFIX number 12380, both under £8).
Q: I need to create a couple of copper pipe bends, what is the best tool for this?
A: If you are just doing occasional pipe work, than a bending spring is fine. They fit 15mm pipes, and 22mm pipes (SCREWFIX numbers13929, and 12076). Grease them first, and if it is a long run, you will need to attach a piece of strong, thick wire to the “eye” end to pull it out. Push into the pipe so that the centre of the spring is where you want the centre of the bend to be. Get an old towel, put it between your bent knee and the pipe, and bend towards you, until you get the dersired 90 degrees. Gently extract the spring. You will need a lot more force for a 22mm pipe, so you may need to rig up something cylindrical to pull against, in your garage/workshop (I do NOT recommend the “knee trick” for these!). If you have more than a few pipe bends to create, I would invest in a Heavy Duty Pipe Bender. SCREWFIX number 18255, around £36.
Q: What tool do I use to remove the threaded connectors on the end of a radiator.
A: If you have a large Allen key (around 14mm), that should do it for the majority of connectors.If yours is an unusual shape (not hex shape internally), you may need to get a “Radiator Spanner” (SCREWFIX number 11467, £2.75). It looks like an Allen key, but has a few more “shaped areas” to cater for these. HINT: unscrew anti-clockwise, and they can be very tight, as its a tapered thread. Try a piece of pipe over the tool, to act as a lever, with the radiator flat on the floor.
|
