Access problem for removing and replacing ballcock All aspects of plumbing questions and answers, help, tips and information

[MGo]

I know how to replace a ballcock in a feed cistern. But the small top opening on the Polytank is making unscrewing it on the inside seemingly inaccessible. All the videos I have seen online show tanks with good access. Anyone got any tips?

[stoneyboy]

Hi mgo,
You should be able to undo the feed pipe nut, undo the valve backing nut and slide out the old valve. That way you will only need to get a hand through the access hole.
Regards S

[MGo]

Thanks very much for the reply. I was intending to use the method shown in the videos of just removing the valve arm on the inside (gripping the arm/unscrewing the metal nut). But I will have to use the feed pipe method with PTFE tape because of the olive. The manufacturer has confirmed not to cut out a part of the top of the tank to get access as it would reduce the structural strength. I guessed it might which was why I asked them.

[stoneyboy]

Hi mgo,
It’s a relatively easy operation but if you are fitting a part 1 valve you may have to bend the arm. A part 2 valve has adjustment on the ball arm.
Regards S