Ball valve adjustment methods and/or tools?

[Alanka]

Typical scenario -- you need to lower (or raise) the water level in the cold water tank in the loft. If the ball valve feeding the tank has the very common straight brass arm to which the float is attached (with no adjusting screw), this means bending the brass arm a bit to get the ball a bit lower (or a bit higher) until the water is at the correct level.

I no longer have strong enough wrists or fingers to bend the arm by hand with it still in the tank (I did once!), especially if access is a bit tight, so how should I achieve these adjustments with the ball valve in place? It's easy if you remove the valve and bend it over your knee, or with wrenches, but I want to adjust it in the tank.

Any recommended methods guys? Any recommended tool(s)?

 

[Best]

Wouldn't recommend you bend some of part 1 valve arms as the cheap ones have very strong "brass" arms that can snap & do you an injury. They snap off shaped like an arrow & you only make that mistake using your bare hands once!
My recommendation is to use a part 2 valve or a brass tail side entry Fluidmaster valve as these can be adjusted & are quieter - especially the Fluidmaster.
Shouldn't need to adjust the part 1 valves if they are fitted correct height to top of tank & o/flow.

 

[stevetheplumber]

I use my foot prints sideways to get the necessary leverage

 

[TimeServed]

Why not use a couple of pairs of grips

 

[R1CKY]

Could try a set of micro bore benders on it I'd there is space. Should give you more leverage.

 

[lame plumber]

I use my foot prints sideways to get the necessary leverage

I wanted to say that! as it works for me as well

 

[JCplumb]

Could try a set of micro bore benders on it I'd there is space. Should give you more leverage.

I was going to suggest that, would need some room to get them on though as can be awkward when your in a tight space.

 

[tom609]

turn off the water take out the cotter pin carefully bend the arm put the arm and pin back in remembering to slightly open the pin to stop it falling out turn on the water job done , though the washer is probably worn which is why the wayer level is high