Is there a plumber in the house? (Stuck stopcock valve)

[jmc]

Turned off both waterlines under the sink recently for a repair and now the hot side won't reopen. Put enough leverage on the handle to feel the shaft wind up a little and then relax when I let off of it. That shaft can't be that strong and might twist off. Suggestions welcome! (And I am turning it CCW)

 

[4570Man]

Shut the water off at the meter and install a new stop is really all there is to do. They’re cheap and the installation is pretty easy.

 

[jmc]

Shut the water off at the meter and install a new stop is really all there is to do. They’re cheap and the installation is pretty easy.

Thanks for the quick response.

What hangs up inside the valve? Is it galling between two contact points? Changing it out will be like building a ship in a bottle while standing on my head!

 

[newbury]

First try turning it the other way not hard enough to twist the shaft, then try opening again.

 

[Runner]

This is why I HATE working on plumbing, and why I never turn the water off at the fixtures anymore. I just turn the water off at the main shutoff valve where it comes through the wall in the basement. Then, use the laundry sink in the basement to drain down the lines.

 

[kenmac]

replace them all with 1/2 turn stops .. You'll thank me later

 

[4570Man]

Thanks for the quick response.

What hangs up inside the valve? Is it galling between two contact points? Changing it out will be like building a ship in a bottle while standing on my head!

If it’s not a 1/2 turn stop you can pretty much count on it not working. Usually it’s oxidation preventing them from closing all the way. I’ve never experience one not opening back.

 

[Runner]

I’ve never experience one not opening back.

Me either, but it seems like mine start leaking about 80% of the time AFTER I open them back up. Opening them ALL the way seems to better the odds of them not leaking somewhat.

 

[square1]

Worth a try to loosen the stem packing nut a bit and work the stem back and forth.

 

[Runner]

replace them all with 1/2 turn stops .. You'll thank me later

Only problem with that is, it involves doing plumbing work. Have I mentioned how much I really hate plumbing?

I know, I know, hire a plumber. No, I say, NEVER!! I refuse. I'm doing it myself!