Replacing taps

[boydi]

Hi all
I am a complete blonde, had bought a very run down unit, replastered all the bits that needed doing and that was a HUGE effort for a novice & this place had been privately rented. Then repainted the whole thing, started off wanting a "perfect" job, but after the ceilings, you are completely over it & if it looks OK it is OK keep going. I was not a painter in a previous life but I give 3 cheers to any painter out there because it has been the hardest thing I have ever done. (No more mission brown inside). I am happy with the result, but ???. I have now recarpeted & the "palace" looks a million $$$.
Saga over, I now need to replace the tap fittings thru out. Have bought everything to OZ standards & this is back to the "guts". Bathroom, shower & basin & bath - Laundry, washing machine & trough.
Sorry, this unit is 17 years old, I can't afford a plumber,

MY QUESTION
I know what I have to do to add new fittings, have read the posts. What can I do if I am unable to unscrew old fittings. Is there something I can use to loosen old connections. (SOME PRODUCT) Sorry for the saga but any advise will make my day. I haven't tried yet but nothing has gone right so for once I thought I might be prepared.
All advise is welcome.
Ruth
Will never give up, well am close.
Boydi

[wonderplumb]

A big pair of footies and a little elbow grease, and pray you dont break something in the wall! With the basin you would be better off installing a whole new 'basin set'. You can pick up a basic one for around $70 inc handles etc.

[Ivan in Oz]

A big pair of footies

Are they like an F.B. Shifter?
They come in 3 Sizes
Fairly big
Fairdinkum Big
and F***ing BIG

Even to soak the fittings with something before hand
Coke, Edible Oil, Viniger, it's up to you.
even the Chemicals for that job.
RP-7, WD40, Penetrene, CRC

[Hadamona]

I had a problem getting a bath spout off, it was corroded to hell, the spout literally snapped off when I tried to unscrew it. Easiest way I knew how to get it off was to cut it, I used a dremel with a 1" cut-off disc, worked a treat!

The corrosion left on the thread was cleaned off using a brass-wire brush in the dremel.

[wonderplumb]

They're like a cross between stilsons and multi grips, most commonly 300mm long but come in smaller and bigger sizes.

[Ivan in Oz]

G'Day WB,

If you mean Footprints;
isn't that a Brand Name?

Dad had a pair, they were good, didn't slip,
juyst got tighter, when undoing:)

[nev25]

By the time you buy these specialized tools it may be more cost efficient to get a plumber in.

[boydi]

Thanks for the advice, I'll give it a try and see what happens.
Boydi

[macca2]

If you are replacing the spindles as well as the tap handles you will need to turn the water of. Do you know where the main tap to your unit is.

Macca

[Jacksin]

Boydi I think, with respect, you could be getting into something a little over your head which could lead to more expensive problems, especially if you break a basin or bust something in the wall

Here if one cant afford a plumber, people to use a competant 'handyperson' from the yellow pages or friend's recomendation. That way you dont have to buy tools and can look over his shoulder and learn for next time. Besides if he busts it he pays.

[boydi]

Thankyou to all who replied, just to let you know "I did it". It all looks great & proves sometimes if you are "blonde" patience, a lot of swearing & bingo. Still have the bathroom basin to go but that is a bit complicated so will take my time. Must admit, was able to get a bit of free advice from an ex plumber & learnt alot.ThanksRuth

[Make it work]

Good on you Ruth, I don't know you but I am proud of you for having a go, WELL DONE.