Radiator spud removal problem

Quercus · 06-28-2012, 08:19 PM

I am trying (hoping?) to move a one-pipe steam radiator over about a foot and a half or so. The plan was to remove the 'spud' from the radiator, thread ~24" length of pipe into the radiator, and use a basic straight coupling to connect the extension pipe to the spud and hence into the valve. Simple right? until one of the little nubbins the spud wrench grabs onto snapped off. Now what? If I were a welder I suppose I could build up a new nubbin, but I lack the equipment or knowledge. Any thoughts/advice welcome!

**oh'mike** · 06-28-2012, 08:56 PM

I moved this to HVAC for you--there are some old time steam fitters hiding inn here--

If you can post a picture---the answers will be more accurate--Mike---

carmon · 06-28-2012, 09:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Quercus

I am trying (hoping?) to move a one-pipe steam radiator over about a foot and a half or so. The plan was to remove the 'spud' from the radiator, thread ~24" length of pipe into the radiator, and use a basic straight coupling to connect the extension pipe to the spud and hence into the valve. Simple right? until one of the little nubbins the spud wrench grabs onto snapped off. Now what? If I were a welder I suppose I could build up a new nubbin, but I lack the equipment or knowledge. Any thoughts/advice welcome!

oh man you have a problem .... and what is a nubbin

Quercus · 06-28-2012, 09:27 PM

Thanks for looking out for me Mike!
a couple photos (hope they come through - its my first attempt) --

heres the general goal - I need to move the spud from the radiator to the coupler-riser position.

here's the sheared-off nubbin from inside the spud. (I have no idea what the nubbin is really called - there are two such nubbings inside the spud, against which the spud wrench engages. or used to.)

carmon · 06-28-2012, 09:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Quercus

Thanks for looking out for me Mike!
a couple photos (hope they come through - its my first attempt) --

heres the general goal - I need to move the spud from the radiator to the coupler-riser position.

here's the sheared-off nubbin from inside the spud. (I have no idea what the nubbin is really called - there are two such nubbings inside the spud, against which the spud wrench engages. or used to.)

no pictures..... and I am confused...does not take much mind you

Quercus · 06-28-2012, 09:34 PM

Photos, take 2

**oh'mike** · 06-28-2012, 09:37 PM

You need to try 'Abra Cadabra"--worked for Danger Mouse--I never have figured it out myself--

Quercus · 06-28-2012, 09:38 PM

whew...

**oh'mike** · 06-28-2012, 09:41 PM

One of the boiler men will see this---good luck

**beenthere** · 06-28-2012, 10:00 PM

Do you have a wood saw? Cut a piece of wood just wide enough so it just barely fits into the spud(dow rod also works). Then use pump pliers to grip the spud on the outside, and gently turn it loose. Should spray it with Kroil or some other good penetrating fluid also. the wood prevents you from crushing the spud.