Bleed Valve Keys Won't Fit On Older Rads (Inc. Pictures)

[plumbandplumber]

Just a quick one. I have two different bleed keys (see photo), and neither will fit on the bleed valves of some older rads. I'm not 100 per cent sure, but I think they may fit on the square screw that turns, but it's the circular collar around the screw that's stopping the key sliding over the square end. Or is it possible that the square end of the screw is a different , larger size than normal?

Does anyone know what key I need, or possibly another way round the problem. I've drained and refilled the system, but the older rads of this type on the system are now full of air.

 

[Rickster123]

Long nosed pliers and a steady hand

 

[ShaunCorbs]

as above or with a file make the new key fit

 

[stani]

Cut 1/4" off the end of the left hand key, it will fit then

 

[plumbandplumber]

Cut 1/4" off the end of the left hand key, it will fit then

I think your idea may work. Strangely, there are some of these same rads downstairs, and the left hand key only just grips the end of these bleed screws enough to turn them. So if I remove the end of key where it is bevelled in the entrance of the hole, it may grip the upstairs ones. May file the outside ridges off key too.

Presumably, the upstairs bleed screws are slightly worn because they have been used more over the years, as a result of the upstairs rads being more likely to collect air.

 

[plumbandplumber]

Some great suggestions above - many thanks. Although the pic makes the gap around the screw look huge, in reality, I don't think pliers will get in there. But certainly a combination of cutting down and filing the key will do it.

Thanks gents!

 

[Roger Welton]

proops SET x 2 CLOCK WINDING KEYS ALL SIZES BRASS SPIDER STAR PAIR ODD & EVEN

i have a set of these and one of them fits them a treat (the rest are useless to me!)

 

[SimonG]

Stani's suggestion is the way to go. The first few mill of the keys are concave. Suppose it helps get the key on in a hurry

 

[macackau]

Used these quite a lot, I think they are great. You drill in a new vent.

http://www.easibleed.co.uk/

 

[rpm]

Used these quite a lot, I think they are great. You drill in a new vent.

Home

And look pig ugly to me!

 

[ShaunCorbs]

And look pig ugly to me!

as above and what happened if it doesnt seal your *-**-*--*--**-*-*-*//*/--***-/-

 

[macackau]

I have used them as a last resort if bleed is properly rounded. They don't look that bad and I've not had a problem with one sealing.