How do I get this apart?

[randy41]

I bought a used 14x80 cold frame (hoophouse). It is assembled by driving a 1 1/2" OD piece of EMT into the ground. Then a sleeve of EMT (slightly larger) is screwed on to the top of the EMT that is in the ground. Then one end of the hoop part is inserted into the sleeve and then screwed on. I need to get this assembly apart but it is rusted together. There is a thin layer of rust on each pipe end that goes into the sleeve. Would you use penetrating oil and let it sit for while then pull it apart with a pipe wrench? Would it help to heat up the sleeve with a torch? Some of these came apart without much trouble once I could turn one piece independent of the other.

[Iplayfarmer]

Originally Posted by randy41

I bought a used 14x80 cold frame (hoophouse). It is assembled by driving a 1 1/2" OD piece of EMT into the ground. Then a sleeve of EMT (slightly larger) is screwed on to the top of the EMT that is in the ground. Then one end of the hoop part is inserted into the sleeve and then screwed on. I need to get this assembly apart but it is rusted together. There is a thin layer of rust on each pipe end that goes into the sleeve. Would you use penetrating oil and let it sit for while then pull it apart with a pipe wrench? Would it help to heat up the sleeve with a torch? Some of these came apart without much trouble once I could turn one piece independent of the other.

Hit it with whatever you have... Penetrating oil, heat, and a BIG pipe wrench should do the trick. That EMT will likely crush, bend, or break easily; so one way or another you're going to get it apart. You may end up replacing some of the parts if you ever want to set it up again.

Another thought... If you can get the hoop part out, a few sharp blows with a hammer to the top of the pipe may jar enough of the rust loose to help you get it out. You may want to use a block of wood between the hammer and the pipe to prevent mushrooming the pipe.