Tool for Sink Waste Nut

youtheman

Question from a 'non plumber' here. Need to change the waste fitting on a basin sink (like this http://bathsupermarket.com/click-clack-basin-waste-slotted?gclid=CjwKEAjw8da8BRDssvyH8uPEgnoSJABJmwYoszbe-2r6Ju0xDK3_SqNBBJGUCrYKUhBqsJ4C_F6s1xoCf6_w_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds ). But because the sink is fitted to a small cabinet, I don't have the room to get at the nut with a pipe wrench or spanner. Worst case, I have to disconnect the hot and cold pipes, unscrew the sink from the wall and break the silicone seal around the sink to take the sink out. Went to five different tool shops over the weekend looking for a tool (or socket) to get a grip on the nut. But couldn't get one. Surely there must be a 'special tool' that you plumbers use. Any advice, or links, would be much appreciated.

Wearb

Maybe this.

youtheman

Wearb wrote: »

Maybe this.

I did see something like that in Woodies, but it was for a smaller size (the nut on the hot or cold pipe). I think the nut size on the waste is around 46 mm, so I'd need a bigger version. Must see if I can get one the right size.

I did see a big socket for taking off an immersion heater element, would be great if I could get something like that. Easy to fit and I don't have to struggle to fit it or keep is straight etc.

Thanks for the suggestion.

RJF

Is the waste nut plastic or steel? If plastic you may be able to cut it off with a junior hacksaw. I have even managed to do this on metal ones in the past. Depends on your skill, dexterity and patience. Cut fingers and knuckles are possible so wear gloves if you attempt this. Have spent over half hour of slow careful sawing on similar. The joys of plumbing - working in confined spaces.

A tube spanner would do the job but that size would be hard to find and probably too costly for a one off small job. Maybe an engineering supplier could source one for you if necessary.

That tool that Wearb showed you can be used also as it has ridged teeth that will grip the nut even though it does not go all the way around it. One hand holding it tight on nut while applying torque with other. Again gloves for fingers and knuckles. Work safe.

youtheman

Thanks RJF. The nut is metal, so I wouldn't have the patience to cut if off. Always wondered how a tradesman keeps calm when working in a strangers house. When I was attempting it in my Mothers house I was effing and blinding, and cursing the person who designed this setup. Think if I was a professional plumber I'd be run off the job on Day 1 as my language and general demeanour would be highly likely to cause offence.

I did go to en engineering tool supplier and he could source a socket, but it would be massive and costly. Wondered why they don't supply a thin wall socket like the one for the immersion element.

RJF

Can you post some pics looking up at it from below with the trap off. Might have some further advice.

youtheman

RJF wrote: »

Can you post some pics looking up at it from below with the trap off. Might have some further advice.

Can only do that at home tonight. My PC at work won't allow me access Photobucket. Thanks for the offer of help anyway.

corkgsxr

Iv never seen a basin where you can't get a good grips to move it.

But big difference between cheap and good grips

RJF

I took the problem to be the small size of the cabinet.

"But because the sink is fitted to a small cabinet, I don't have the room to get at the nut with a pipe wrench or spanner. Worst case, I have to disconnect the hot and cold pipes, unscrew the sink from the wall and break the silicone seal around the sink to take the sink out."

corkgsxr

RJF wrote: »

I took the problem to be the small size of the cabinet.

"But because the sink is fitted to a small cabinet, I don't have the room to get at the nut with a pipe wrench or spanner. Worst case, I have to disconnect the hot and cold pipes, unscrew the sink from the wall and break the silicone seal around the sink to take the sink out."

Yes I'm saying iv never had a problem even with small cabinets. The likes of the bigger size vice grips brand. You can go at it straight up rather than sideways.

RJF

I hear you, corkgsxr. That's why I asked for pics.