Steam Radiator Problem
I think it’s a small problem but I’ve never had it before. It’s an old radiator and the air valve won’t screw in at all. Nothing wrong with the valve. I’m assuming the thread is shot. What can be done? Wouldn’t want to have to replace the radiator for something like this.
I think it’s a small problem but I’ve never had it before. It’s an old radiator and the air valve won’t screw in at all. Nothing wrong with the valve.
I’m assuming the thread is shot. What can be done? Wouldn’t want to have to replace the radiator for something like this.
The air vent tapping is 1/8″. If you buy a tap tool, make sure you specify PIPE thread or else they may give you bolt or machine thread.
I would try a new valve or borrow one from another radiator. If the threads are dirty or a tiny bit crushed there could be trouble. If it was peviously installed cross threaded it could of damaged the hole. I would wash with a tap oil or Kroil.
I would chase the hole with a tap first. I believe it is a 1/8″ NPT thread which is I would look for in a plumbing supply rather than a hardware store. Graingers or McMaster will have it.
I would repair the hole with HELICOIL. This is a Mcmaster or Grainger item, or maybe the plumbing supply would have the NPT kit.
Check the threads on the valve very closely they may be damaged, or try a different valve to be sure where the problem is. If there is a broken valve stem in the opening you will need to remove it. Use an EZ-out/screw extractor that fits the hole with some penetrating oil or WD-40 and let it work for a few minutes then back out the broken piece.
If the threads are damaged you will need to use a tap and lubricant to re thread them.
A good plumbing supply, Sids hardware or Sears has everything you need.
You can probably just rethread right through the broken piece, if that’s what it is.
Sounds like a piece of an old air valve has snapped off inside the hole.
Sounds like a piece of an old air valve has snapped off inside the hole.
Sounds like a piece of an old air valve has snapped off inside the hole.
I had this problem some time ago. The plumber re-threaded where the valve screws in and used a lot of tape and string to secure it. It did the trick.
Try a lot of teflon tape?