trying to remove a shower head that won't turn without turning the pipe that go's into the wall.
by
Dave
+10
What do I use to loosen the shower head so I can remove it?
13 answers
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Dave, The base of the shower head should have two flat areas that an open-ended / open-ended adjustable wrench would fit. Then you'll need pliers or channel locks to hold the shower arm steady. I recommend using a towel to wrap the shower arm, so the pliers do not scratch or gouge the shower are. You'll also want to teflon tape the threads prior to the new head being installed.
Imagery
on Feb 21, 2011
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tried....the shower head has been screwed on for 15 years and won't budge......what to do?
Dave
on Feb 21, 2011
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Dave, I've tried CLR or similar works great, but is a chemical, so wear rubber gloves and eye protection....It will free up the mineral deposits quickly, or alternatively, replace the shower are as well as the shower head...They aren't very expensive, an since the arm is already loose, that may be the best solution....
Imagery
on Feb 21, 2011
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will try and let you know
Dave
on Feb 21, 2011
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If the CLR or WD40 doesn't work, you may have to use a wrench to hold the pipe, use a washrag to protect the finish.
James A
on Feb 21, 2011
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Here's how I do it. Get two adjustable wrenches. You also need a dish glove. Adjust one wrench to fit the pipe. now lay the glove over the teeth of the wrench and place it on the pipe. Use to other wrench shower head. Hole the pipe side while turning the shower head to the left.
Hudson Designs
on Feb 21, 2011
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I would try the channel locks and some liquid wrench, Dave.
Brent B
on Feb 21, 2011
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A new pipe is cheap! Toss both old pieces and start fresh. Don't forget to use teflon (preferably paste/liquid) on both threaded ends!!
General Construction and Repair Services
on Feb 21, 2011
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What's the big deal about not taking the pipe out? I seems like you're going to more trouble by trying to leave it in. Are you worried about not getting a good seal inside the wall? You have almost as much risk having to force the current head off and leaving the pipe. What if you loosen the pipe as you are trying to get the head off? Do you know just turning it back to its position will not lead to leaks? Not likely, especially with old plumbing, which is waiting to leak as soon as you look at it. If the head is hard to get off, take the pipe out along with it. Get a new head, pipe, and escutcheon. If you are worried about not getting a good seal inside the wall, use pipe compound instead of teflon tape. It's easier to get a good seal than tape for people who don't have a lot of experience. Fill the threads with the compound completely. Put some compound in the joint in the wall. It shouldn't be too hard. If the brush from the can can't reach, use a stick and a flashlight to see. Assemble everything beforehand. Screw the whole thing in tight, and there you go.
Paul Slayton Contracting
on Feb 21, 2011
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I always use a little grease and it works, sometime I just use cooking Oil and have lossened a many tight nuts.
Yamini M
on Feb 21, 2011
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Penatraiting oil in a spray can will be your best bet to loosen the seized threads.
Sean W
on Feb 21, 2011
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cloth and pipe wrench
John lucia
on Mar 01, 2011
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You need 2 small pipe wrenches / Channel lock pliers, and rubber dish glove. Rap the glove over the pipe in the wall. Hold it tight with tool over rubber so not to scratch. Use the other tool on the shower head. Facing the head turn the shower head counter clock wise. Hold the pipe firm don't allow it to turn. Some times there is a build up inside and it can be tough to turn.
Hudson Designs
on Mar 01, 2011
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