corroded mains valve

[Andymav]

hi peeps just encountered a corroded mains valve under the sink cannot move the dam thing to shut off the mains just wondered if anyone has any practical solutions im thinking heat it up or maybe wd40 would appreciate any ideas.

 

[PlumbBobBob]

can you get to the main stopcock outside? if you can turn it off there and change the inside one

 

[Andymav]

cant get to it unfortunately might have to give the water authority a call

 

[PlumbBobBob]

yes that's your best call you must be able to isolate water

 

[Simon F]

they do stick from not being used, what have you tried so far? you could clean the crutch spindle, loosen the gland nut slightly and try some lubricant as you suggested. use a spanner to give a bit more leverage, but only give gentle pressure or you could easily shear the spindle. once you get some movement you should be able to turn the handle in and out by hand, slowly freeing up the movement.
having said all that, being able to turn off in the street if it went wrong would give more confidence.

 

[plumman]

IF its lead you go easy with it!

 

[Guest123]

Freeze it and then fit a new one above the stuck one. It will probably be 3/4" imperial, so carry a few "green" 3/4" compression rings. I'd call the water authority and save a lot of hassle.

 

[Andymav]

had a go with lubricant and tried simons idea not even moved lol its years old luckily its not lead so gonna get the local authority to turn off the outside and change the valve thanks all for your imput appreciate it

 

[adam84]

id freeze it and cut out the old one, ive also started fiitting a lever valve directly down stream of the stop tap as their much easier to of especialy for elderly or frail people.

 

[SimonJohns]

id freeze it and cut out the old one, ive also started fiitting a lever valve directly down stream of the stop tap as their much easier to of especialy for elderly or frail people.

Why not a sure stop?

 

[WHPES]

Get the water authority to shut off the supply. Don't want to start working on it without any means of isolation even if you do manage to freeze it!