Which basic plumbing tools can I add ?

[Jacobson]

Today, I had a clogged sink and had to take apart the pipes. I have a C-Man 10" pipe wrench. It worked on the small fittings but not the large ones. For the big ones, I had to use my 4 1/4" 16-Inch Channellock. It worked, but what is the right tool?

What size pipe wrench can I add to my home toolbox?
Seems like 14" and 18" are the next sizes up.

 

[bmwpowere36m3]

On the trap?

Those large nuts on traps and tailpieces require a LARGE adjustable... however space is usually a factor. The Channel-Lock wideazz 8" adjustable works well for me.

For threaded pipe, I just use my Rigid 18" pipe wrench (2x)... installed all my gas lines with them (1/2 thru 1 1/4" black pipe). For threaded fittings (brass or copper) w/ hex I'll either use my CL adjustables (6 thru 12") or the 18" pipe wrench for larger stuff (not too concerned with marks).

 

[gungatim]

basics:
basin wrench
adjustable drain wrench (or set of fixed sizes)
aluminum pipe wrench (lighter and easier on your arms when you are upside down under a sink)
shower stem socket set
can't have too many channel locks or adjustable wrenches either, but the above are the proper plumbing tools for the most part...

other plumbing stuff I find handy fixing other peoples junk;
electric water heater element socket
GOOD tubing cutters, small and medium
internal pipe wrenches
washer seat cutter and hone

 

[Lee Celtic]

Big set of Stilsons..aka Monkey wrench.

 

[Jacobson]

I liked the leverage torque of the 16" ChannelLocks.
Looks like I will buy an 18" pipe wrench.
If I can find a used aluminum one, I'll do that.

 

[Weird Tolkienish Figure]

I have a big-*** pipe wrench from Harbor Freight. I use it mostly for working on my pool plumbing, opening and closing. It will also rip apart a larger stuck bolt very nicely, something I found out almost by accident. The teeth sink into anything and it gives good leverage.

 

[jd_1138]

Also keep some basics on hand like a little tub of plumber's putty and a roll of teflon thread tape.

 

[theoldwizard1]

Basin trap "nuts" are only supposed to be "hand tight" !

 

[Robinson1]

Basin wrench, faucet handle puller, and shower valve sockets are a must.

Faucet seat tool is nice when you need it but most non commercial faucets installed in the last 20 years don't have removable/replaceable seats.

Tubing cutters and pvc cutter

If dealing with copper a good torch. Those $20 hardware store specials are pretty much junk. Get a nice unit that uses MAPP gas.

Channellock 440 and 420 pliers, preferably two pairs of each

A decent set of hooks/picks. Primary use will be o-rings, but they are handy for fishing small parts out of faucets too.

 

[gdocktor3]

Most all plumbing can be done with pipe wrenches, adjustable wrenches, Channellocks, screwdrivers, adjustable basin wrench, and Allen keys. With that said, I could do the first 3 tools jobs with just Channellocks. Yea the trap nuts should be slightly tighter than hand tight, but no trap is ever hand tight after years of use. Even plastic. Trust me I do it every day. Good call on the Plumbers putty and Teflon tape also JD.

OP get on Sears.com and buy the craftsman 3 piece adjustable wrench set (not evolv) and the craftsman groove lock pliers set with the small and 10" pliers. They're USA made and phenomenal tools. Adjustables are same as Proto and groove locks same as SK, both made by Western Forge.

 

[Ole Slewfoot]

You can apply a lot more force with a pipe wrench than a channelock. Tearing down a 50+ year old 3/4 system with pliers sounds like a nightmare

Don't forget the Sawzall!

Pipe wrenches and adjustables are some of the most overabundant tools in the world.
for pipe wrenches, The HF aluminum is usually good enough and way lighter than steel, and there are more Al options at the box store. If I made my living plumbing I'd be sure to buy some.

The thing is, 98% of the people who own or have ever owned a pipe wrench will not use it enough to wear it out. I have some from the 20's and 30's that are in about the same condition as my Ridgid I spent $130 on a few years ago(good with some paint flaws and tarnish spots). as a result, you can go to most any flea market, yard sale, etc, and get about any size you need for 2-15$ except for 36 and 48"ers which have intrinsic value. The jaw teeth should be sharp with no chunks broken off, and the handle straight, easy stuff to check. Ebay kind of ***** here , because shipping tends to double the price.

A big adjustable is key as it won't mark up the cosmetic fittings which can be pretty large.

the Channellock was an appropriate choice, you will find very few plumbers without a few.

 

[jd_1138]

Also, a general plumbing book is nice. It'll take a couple of hours to read cover to cover. I have the following one, but might be wise to get a newer one with more current info. on current codes. I think I paid a dime for this one at a yard sale. It goes over the basic principles, common repairs to sinks, commodes, showers, and it shows you how to upgrade and add things like sink sprayers, built in water purifier, etc..

 

[Jacobson]

Thanks for all the tips!
Great call on the primer book

 

[Weird Tolkienish Figure]

Has anyone mentioned a plumber's snake? It was the first tool I had to buy after buying my house. Washing machine line clogged up.

 

[paulsomlo]

Monkey Wrench, especially for slip nuts on tubular pipes:

https://www.zoro.com/facom-monkey-wrench-2-14-in-cap-9-116-in-l-fa-105230/i/G5051575/?gclid=CjwKEAjwuo--BRDDws3x65LL7h8SJABEDuFR1FcfLqDGiolgYR41VEiK5t_MCQzGYm0Swlz-ZhkbmxoC06Lw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds

Readily available at flea markets/garage sales, probably a dime a dozen on ebay. Smooth jaws don't mar slip rings on exposed pipes. There was a thread on these recently here, I think they referred to them as "Ford" wrenches.

 

[crackit]

Monkey Wrench, especially for slip nuts on tubular pipes:

https://www.zoro.com/facom-monkey-wrench-2-14-in-cap-9-116-in-l-fa-105230/i/G5051575/?gclid=CjwKEAjwuo--BRDDws3x65LL7h8SJABEDuFR1FcfLqDGiolgYR41VEiK5t_MCQzGYm0Swlz-ZhkbmxoC06Lw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds

Readily available at flea markets/garage sales, probably a dime a dozen on ebay. Smooth jaws don't mar slip rings on exposed pipes. There was a thread on these recently here, I think they referred to them as "Ford" wrenches.

+1 on the "Ford" wrenches. For years I got by using pipe wrenches on slip nuts, but always marred the nuts. I bought a couple of "Ford" wrenches at a garage sale (the two I have are made by Diamond and Trimco) and have been using them ever since. They don't mar, and they open a lot wider than a standard adjustable wrench.

 

[BD1]

The RIDGID offset is my favorite for trap repairs.

 

[GirchyGirchy]

Depends entirely upon what type of pipes you have and what you're going to do with them.

 

[davethorik]

I'm slightly surprised no one has mentioned Knipex Cobras. They are pricy, but they are very good for pipe. Replacing basic bathroom/kitchen fixtures, you would be surprised how much you can get done with 10" Cobras and a 10" adjustable wrench.

 

[Gmonkee]

My basic homeowner kit is snake, 10" adjustable and a decent 10" pliers.

Other than that some sealers, a favorite is Indain Head, it never fails. Even doubles as PVC cement in a pinch. Spare parts also for our fixtures.

It really isn't a lot. Get the white rubber U traps if you can find them. Squash the interior clog with a pliers via the soft tube and flush it out. No mess on the floor.

 

[rick carpenter]

Flare wrenches and a small-medium pliers/wrench for the smaller lines. I have the 10" p/w but wish I had one of the smaller sizes too for plumbing.

 

[ultgar]

Pick up some basic 1/2" and 3/4" Sharkbite fittings for quick repairs.

 

[AA/FC]

I'm slightly surprised no one has mentioned Knipex Cobras. They are pricy, but they are very good for pipe. Replacing basic bathroom/kitchen fixtures, you would be surprised how much you can get done with 10" Cobras and a 10" adjustable wrench.

A friend of mine is a 3rd or 4th generation master plumber... His family has owned the same plumbing company since the early 1900's. He swears by the knipex Cobras...

 

[Gmonkee]

Add knowledge and the special tools for whatever fixtures you use. A very basic kit with good knowledge goes a long way.

I find that the snake rarely gets used but when required it is a lifesaver. The lady of the house will never forget that her hair clog didn't ruin the day and cost a lot to clear out.
Good ones sell dirt cheap at estate sales

 

[sberry]

Real plumbers carry 440 in their back pockets. A folding ruler too.

 

[Jarhead0408]

Good thread here. I see a few more tools ill be needing to pick up now.

 

[Fialaja]

Reviving an old thread here, had to rebuild 1970 s era Gerber 2&3 handle shower valves- needed shower valve sockets, seat tool and the standard tools mentioned here.

 

[bonneyman]

You gotta take a look at the no-drain toilet tank tool. I made an ABS one after seeing one on ebay, but it's gone now. Saves alot of time when swapping out a fill valve. Plus saves water.

 

[LeeG]

Compression sleeve puller. It has saved my bacon a few times

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00065DH2W/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[Shane6377]

Good topic. Plumbing doesn't get discussed much. I will be remodeling a couple bathrooms in the near future and can use the info. It's interesting to see what other have/use compared to my kit.


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[paulsomlo]

Compression sleeve puller. It has saved my bacon a few times

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00065DH2W/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Didn't know about that one - I've been lucky enough to be able to either reuse, or have enough length to cut off and start over.

 

[bonneyman]

Didn't know about that one - I've been lucky enough to be able to either reuse, or have enough length to cut off and start over.

The first time you're in an old house and the undersink valve needs replacing with a bad ferrule - and the dang fitting is up against the wall on a short stub - you'll be glad you have the puller.

 

[southalabama]

Somehow when I do plumbing I end up with almost every tool including the dremel in the bathroom

 

[bonneyman]

Somehow when I do plumbing I end up with almost every tool including the dremel in the bathroom

Dremels are the cure for SOOOOO many problems!

 

[Shane6377]

Somehow when I do plumbing I end up with almost every tool including the dremel in the bathroom

Agreed! Lol. Plumbing never goes well for me.


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[rick carpenter]

On the trap?

Those large nuts on traps and tailpieces require a LARGE adjustable... however space is usually a factor. The Channel-Lock wideazz 8" adjustable works well for me.

For threaded pipe, I just use my Rigid 18" pipe wrench (2x)... installed all my gas lines with them (1/2 thru 1 1/4" black pipe). For threaded fittings (brass or copper) w/ hex I'll either use my CL adjustables (6 thru 12") or the 18" pipe wrench for larger stuff (not too concerned with marks).

In addition to any/all of the other recommendations, consider v-jaws for your adjustables (t&g Channellock or Crescent, or push button Groovelock from Irwin). Also, a set of flare wrenches and 10" Knipex pliers wrenches.

 

[Ton ton]

Thanks for everyone who added tools to the thread. Plumbing is usually the highest time sensitive part of my job. I do have a tool to add- Ridgid brand of
ratcheting pvc cutters. Not cheap but amazing.

 

[coleman10]

I’ve had to use this a number is times. Works really well.

9 in. x 12 in. Hands-Free Heat Shield

https://www.homedepot.com/p/100345508

Also, one of those small hacksaws for pvc. Sometimes I can’t use the pvc cutter on existing pipe because it’s too thin. The hacksaw works great and is small so it fits in my bag.

Has abrasive cloth come up yet, for cleaning up copper tubing?

 

[coleman10]

The first time you're in an old house and the undersink valve needs replacing with a bad ferrule - and the dang fitting is up against the wall on a short stub - you'll be glad you have the puller.

+1 for the ferrule puller. Sometimes it just has to come off.

 

[Fialaja]

Don’t forget either large big azz channel locks or the correct tool for basket strainer locknuts. I use the channel lock oil filter wrench.