Hand tools that make plumbing easier

[Kappn Zzz]

I've been shadowing a buddy who does plumbing work around Milwaukee and trying to figure out what tools I should start with. We've used a RIDGID snake and a pipe wrench on most jobs but ran into trouble with some old fittings last week. I want to build a set that covers the basics without overdoing it. Do you carry any specialty hand tools for removing corroded valves?

 

[whit3-rabbit]

That's a good way to learn. I helped my cousin with plumbing last year and had the same trouble with old parts. I got a basin wrench and a small hacksaw early on, plus some freeze spray and oil to loosen things. For really stuck valves, a strap wrench and locking pliers worked well. Have you used a valve socket set? It's great for tight spaces.

 

[emtalk]

For corroded valves that a standard pipe wrench can't handle, use a basin wrench coz it gets into tight spots under sinks. Many plumbers also carry a specialized valve tool set which includes different sizes to fit the inner workings of old faucets and valves without causing damage. Something must have is a good pair of channel lock pliers. These give you a lot of grip and leverage on odd shaped fittings. When it comes to corroded threads a good pair of jaw pliers can also be a valuable addition.

 

[lawntroll]

A basin wrench is invaluable, along with Kimpex Cobra or Channellock plyers from 6inch to 12inch, Right hand and Left hand pipe wenches 4 inch to 14 inch, Kroil or WD40 penetrating oil, good quality crescent wrenches and screwdrivers and lastly a good self igniting propane or map gas torch for soldering and sweating copper. I carried all the above in a Pelican hard case that I could pull along to go from plumbing disaster to disaster in the production plants.

 

[Kappn Zzz]

I see the basin wrench keeps coming up, so that's going on my list first. The plier suggestions are great too but I'm debating if I should spend the extra on Knipex Cobras or stick with a mixed set of midrange pliers. For now, I'll test a few setups over the next month and report back before closing this out.