[bob22]

Tub spout's aerator has been there 30 years and I'd like to remove it to clean it up a bit or replace it.
This is for a soaking tub and the spout and valves are on the top of the tub deck:

Tried my 12" channel locks but no movement.
I'm guessing it is welded in with minerals; any suggestions on removing?
Hard to spray CLR or similar upwards but might be only way...

 

[PBR Street Gang]

Yep, "mineral weld" - I used a large plastic bag filled with CLR to submerse the end of the spout and it worked (with channel locks after soaking overnight). I always have Moen send me new aerators (free) every couple of years or so.

 

[bob22]

I've duct taped the bag closed after shooting it with CLR but gravity wins.
May have to take spout off.
I see a set screw in the opposite end of the spout; I assume that loosens and the spout comes off tub deck?
I hope pipe it is attached to doesn't fall down once set screw loosened as front of tub is tiled (gulp).

 

[Matt1963]

I've duct taped the bag closed after shooting it with CLR but gravity wins.
May have to take spout off.
I see a set screw in the opposite end of the spout; I assume that loosens and the spout comes off tub deck?
I hope pipe it is attached to doesn't fall down once set screw loosened as front of tub is tiled (gulp).

No, fill the bag with clr or vinager and seal it with tape.

 

[bob22]

Did it work with bag. Spout end is much higher than other and can’t keep the solution at level needed to immerse aerator.
Anyone know how spout connects to supply pipe? Is it just the friction from set screw or is it threaded on as well?

 

[bob22]

This is a Moen if that helps. Doesn’t show up on their site, picture earlier is from a similar unit .

 

[ZTMAN]

delete, wrong thread

 

[Matt1963]

This is a Moen if that helps. Doesn’t show up on their site, picture earlier is from a similar unit .

You have to have access from the bottom where there will be mounting nuts and supply lines to remove.

Try heating up the aerator with a hair dryer 3 to 4 times. Heat/cool, repeat.

 

[dangdave]

I think you’re on the right track with the set screw. Should be a nut on the top of the tub and an o/ring on pipe to seal it to spout, the set screw just keeps it in place. If so put plumbers grease on the ring when you reinstall

 

[dangdave]

To clarify, the nut is on the pipe under the spout. I never can edit

 

[bob22]

Thanks, access via panel in closet adjacent room. The view may not be worth the climb!