Any ideas of how to remove the nut on a high level WC cistern

[Paul Cockhill]

Hi

I have been unsuccessfully trying to remove this nut to release the syphon from a high level cistern. The pipe is plastic so I cannot heat up the nut. I have tried freeze it spray which usually works but not on this occasion.

Any ideas?

 

[Stoney Ground]

Try a hair dryer to warm it?

 

[Ch4 plumbing]

get a pair of grips on the threaded part and a decent adjustable spanner on the nut, should come off with no problem!

Just don't mangle the thread up.

 

[Best]

As above, ^^ just use large adjustable or grips on the nut and hold the top of syphon with your other hand to prevent it turning. Only use grips on threads as last resort and don't let them slip on the threads and damage them badly.
12 inch Footprints are great grips

 

[Last Plumber]

Morning, is that not an
old Bakelite cistern ?
I know this may cause alarm unnecessarily and I don't mean to because it's extremely unlikely any thing might happen but Bakelite sometimes had asbestos mixed in with it for strength.

It's unlikely you will scratch damage or crack it but please be careful with it !

my apologies if it's plastic

 

[Fallon1982]

I think Last Plumber is right. I think them cisterns do have an element of asbestos in them. We used to have to get a licensed asbestos removal company in to remove them when I was working for a local council.
We was always told not to disturb them - just replace the cistern. I think in reality I would recommend, that if you have to put too much pressure on breaking the nut, quote for a new cistern. Dudley do a rubber well at most suppliers.

 

[Paul Cockhill]

Hi Everyone

Many thanks for your replies. The WC has been there a long time, it is probably bakelite. I did manage to break the nut seal with two extendable spanners and "Crack it" spray. Fitted a Dudley 88 syphon easily in its place.

Thanks

Paul