immersion heater won't turn... need new ideas

[MP plumb]

i need to change an immersion heater on a copper cylinder

i have tried the following:

using immersion spanner
using an extention bar on the spanner for more leverage
using large footprints
using large adjustables/grips
heating it up slightly
(tapping the tools with a hammer too !!! :boxing_smiley:

it feels like the cylinder is crushing to the side instead of the immersion turning so i dont want to push it too much

any new ideas/techniques are welcome!

 

[SimonG]

Theres a couple of threads on this if you do a search. One was quite recent,

 

[grahamgas]

Pretty much do the same as you have suggested.
Maybe new cylinder time. Some sealants just seem to go like concrete after a time.

Graham

 

[SimonG]

http://www.ukplumbersforums.co.uk/plumbing-forum/34151-immersion-removal.html

 

[MP plumb]

thanks, just had a look at the link. im worried though, because the immersion already looks a bit slated to the right, so any force seems to make it bend more. maybe a new cylinder is needed then

 

[Dannypipe]

Sounds like the cylinder is now damaged. Tread carefully and warn your client of the possible outcome.

 

[M.Joshi]

I believe someone asked a similar question on here recently. Have you tried tightening slightly before un-tightening?

You could also try penetrant spray (not WD-40) if you have access to the thread.

 

[JCplumb]

Immersion spanner and a lump hammer. They're never easy to get off.
You didn't drain down when trying this? Being full helps keep the cylinder stable and solid, I get the immersion moving a smidgen before draining down.

 

[goz666]

Heat always works for me, part drain down maybe top 6" then plenty of heat all round the flange.

 

[Paulus]

Have you seen tweakyboys post about drilling it out? It may be worth a try before fitting new cylinder provided you warn customer beforehand that the action may result in a new cylinder being required.

 

[mountainman]

Heat always works for me, part drain down maybe top 6" then plenty of heat all round the flange.

That's the way to do it and if it's a pre-insulated cyl, remove the 'stat and get the immersion really hot.
Never failed for me!

 

[armyash]

Not that I have had to do it myself but the guy I have been going out with told me, whenever trying to change the immersion heater always warn the customer that the cylinder could be damaged and need replacing as a result, it's their decision then. Already been said above I know but it's good to come across this thread and realise I am picking some good advice.

 

[royston]

Yes deffo advise as it could be a costly mistake, especially if you live in London as someone in another thread stated ( they fight tooth and nail not to pay ) !!!