Stiff cock

ghostlymoron

ghostlymoron

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I assume the title will attract many unhelpful comments but my query is genuine.
I have a traditional gas cock in the gas locker - the type that has an oval handle approx 20mm long that folds down in the 'off' position. It is so stiff to operate that I have to use pliers - can it be serviced/lubricated. If so how and with what.
 
Prrobably made of brass and probably the lubricating grease has 'set' /forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif

If you can, wrap the whole fitting in a flannel which has been sitting in boiling water get the complete tap hot, (hot water hot, NOT flame hot)!! /forums/images/graemlins/shocked.gif

Use flannel as it 'carries' more hot water. /forums/images/graemlins/ooo.gif

In fact wrap it totally in flannel and use a kettle to slowly pour boiling water onto the stop-cock and flannel. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif
 
These devices normally can be stripped down for maintenance.

1. Turn off gas
2. Undo nut on rear of tap assembly
3. Pull barrel from tap
4. Grease using a graphite style grease
5. Assemble in reverse order
6. Tighten nut until barrel will move by hand
7. Turn on gas and check for leakage with soapy water.

However, if you don't feel confident in dealing with gas.............. find a gasman who will do it for you!
 
[ QUOTE ]
Had a similar problem, WD40 and working it open and closed made it much more usable.

[/ QUOTE ]

This type of valve needs the grease to seal - both to stop the gas leaking past the valve, and to stop it leaking out into the cabin / locker, etc. If you've washed it out with WD40...

There is a purpose made grease for gas valves - it's called 'cock grease' (honestly) and can be got from plumbers merchants. Use sparingly, or lumps get into the gas pipes and eventually block your burner jets. See the bottom of this page for an example.

I SAY AGAIN: Don't wash this out with WD40, etc. unless you're going to re-grease it !!

(So your entertainment for today is to walk into as many plumber's merchants as you can and ask for "cock grease" /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif )

Andy
 
ref Little Ship

1.
2.
2a. There may well be a spring washer under the nut - don't lose it !
3.
3a. Clean off all old grease with e.g. turps and thoroughly dry
4.
5.

LS - hope you don't mind......
 
Thanks, I needed a good laugh.You can buy a gas tap for next to nothing.The ones I've seen have a chromed brass body with a yellow wing type handle.It may be different in the UK though.
 
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