Removing Jurassic bathtaps, frustrated and confused.

[Last Plumber]

They are as @Best said, globe taps. They would more than likely have been put in by the Plumber using putty and paint, whilst the bath was stood on end and before it was installed. They will be difficult to remove but not impossible.

They are not available anymore due to regulations on back siphonage. The spout is within the bath and although you have an overflow which appears to be below the spout level, if it blocked, even partially, or has a flow rate less than that of the taps, then it is possible for the taps to become submerged in foul water. They are existing so don't need to be replaced retrospectively as far as I know.

Have you thought about what you will replace them with?

As best said, I would be tempted to repair them and spend some time on that. It should be possible for them to be re-seated, washer-ed and packed, as long as they are not corroded.

 

[Gasmk1]

you would need one of these others are available not cheap as a one of purchase but if you get a good plumbe rin he should have a reaseating tool https://www.amazon.co.uk/Monument-4...=2025&creative=165953&creativeASIN=B0001P0FZY. so if you get a couple of quotes look at it that it will save you £40 to 50 in materials and tools not to mention time so that will make the bill seem less expensive

 

[StoneAgeMan]

Have you thought about what you will replace them with?

As best said, I would be tempted to repair them and spend some time on that. It should be possible for them to be re-seated, washer-ed and packed, as long as they are not corroded.

I don't have any sentimental attachment to the taps, but THEY seem intent on out-living the house. I have carved a smooth shiny cylinder out of the hexagonal nut on the internal mechanism. I would have been happy to reseat and fit a new washer, but the Tap God's are denying me the opportunity. I might have another go, now that I can gauge the amount of work to replace both taps.

No, I haven't looked at what I would use as replacements

 

[Last Plumber]

I don't have any sentimental attachment to the taps, but THEY seem intent on out-living the house. I have carved a smooth shiny cylinder out of the hexagonal nut on the internal mechanism. I would have been happy to reseat and fit a new washer, but the Tap God's are denying me the opportunity. I might have another go, now that I can gauge the amount of work to replace both taps.

No, I haven't looked at what I would use as replacements

If you have ruined the chances of using a key on the flats, then you will need to use a pair of footprints/pump pliers or something else that tightens slightly as it grips.



You could blank the existing holes and use the wall mounted method:-

As long as the projection is enough to clear the overflow.

Failing all that, change the bath.

Just a few suggestions, I don't know if any of them help at all but good luck.

 

[Best]

Some seized parts, including the works in old or new taps are best loosened by a hitting spanner a sharp thump with a hammer.
Best to still have the body of the tap held somehow

 

[Julian]

If bath tub is made of some sort of metal, you can heat the taps with torch. Materials, both tap and cooper expands as they are heated. when they cool they will be lose.

 

[StoneAgeMan]

Some seized parts, including the works in old or new taps are best loosened by a hitting spanner a sharp thump with a hammer.
Best to still have the body of the tap held somehow

Yep, tried the "engineer's fix". I have a trusty lump hammer, but perhaps my technique is at fault. I'm probably being too timid as I try to err on the side of caution.
I won't get another go at it for a few days, so perhaps I might take some practice swings in the back yard. My neighbours probably already think that my nocturnal plumbing has something to do with disposal of my victims. What will I do next!?

 

[Last Plumber]

Some seized parts, including the works in old or new taps are best loosened by a hitting spanner a sharp thump with a hammer.
Best to still have the body of the tap held somehow

Pray tell, is that the same as 'whacking it gently'?