Leaking flange from cylinder

[DEMPSEY1965]

Hi All,

I have just discovered that the flange (Essex?) that feeds my shower pump from the the hwc is leaking. It is positioned on the side about 8 inches from the top if that is any help. I have drained the cwt because as usual the gate valve doesn't work and also drained the hwt to below the level of the flange, so the panic is over. The cause of the leak was down to me disturbing the pipework when changing the shower pump last week so it is not worn etc. What I would like is any advice about curing the leak. Do I replace,repair reseal and also any tips about the removal.

Many thanks for your help.

 

[dancinplumba]

uindo and reseal ?

 

[SimonJohns]

uindo and reseal ?

Using new washers

Maybe even buying a new cylinder that removes the need for and Essex. Or if you can get one. Replace it with a surrey on a new cylinder. Far less chance of a leak

 

[Best]

Terrible things, Essex flanges, - rubber seals just go rock hard & leak especially if pipe touched. Probably easier just to replace with same, & make sure pipe is clipped.
Getting old one out of cylinder is hard bit, as the split washer is now on the inside. Putting new one on, just follow instructions carefully & make sure you first mark the outside of where flange when centred, will be.

Edit :- should add that the remains of old rubber washer inside the cylinder is usually stuck in bits to cylinder & is a pain to remove as you can't get at it properly.

 

[Best]

Using new washers

Maybe even buying a new cylinder that removes the need for and Essex. Or if you can get one. Replace it with a surrey on a new cylinder. Far less chance of a leak

Agree, except new washers bit, as old flange may be not worth working with.
New cylinder with a Warix or Surrey flange on top of it ( whichever suits pipe ) finishes the Essex flange problem.

 

[DEMPSEY1965]

Hi cheers everyone,

I just need the easiest solution. I do have a Surrey flange on top feeding the other shower. Anything else that would help me before I start would be a great help. Do I use any jointing compounds, what about a new flange,are they all the same etc.

Thanks again.

 

[REDSAW]

whats the point having 2 feeds from one tank?.

 

[Best]

You are supposed to use jointing paste on the fine threads before putting final large flange nut on. Don't be tempted to use tape, as threads are fine & you could risk the whole fitting turning as it only relies on grip from little raised grips on inside split washer! As far as I know, there are two types, 1, a female type which requires you to screw a male st into it later, & 2, one with a nut & olive for a copper pipe, ( better ).
Here's how to fit :- (replaced one yesterday!) Clean inside & outside cylinder, then mark outside of flange so as to be sure to centre. Push the wire holder through flange body & push the toed end through hole in cyl. Hold slightly loose & slide split washer over wire & twist it inside cyl. Do same with rubber washer & pull wire holder & fit 2nd rubber washer & then metal one. Put some paste on threads & slide final large nut over wire & tighten, making sure centre.
DONT let go of the wire at any time! When finished, to remove wire, push it in & out until it comes out.

 

[DEMPSEY1965]

Hi,

I know there is going to be wrongs/rights etc and maybe it hasn't been installed the right way but I just want to fix the leak using a bit of knowledge from you guys.

 

[DEMPSEY1965]

Thanks Best,think that is what I require,just worried that the nut wont come undone like most plumbing bits!

Chers again

 

[Best]

Thanks Best,think that is what I require,just worried that the nut wont come undone like most plumbing bits!

Chers again

Yea, I sawed through the length of the old flange, dead centre, with a junior hacksaw with a new blade, so to split the large nut. Daft, but it worked! Worst thing is guy needs a new cylinder, so a waste of time.