Fixed basin wrench vs adjustables

[bbb]

When installing a new set of taps on to an existing basin which tool do you use for the job?

Fixed basin wrench or adjustable basin wrench??

I use adjustables, but this is mainly because in all my years I have never found a fixed basin wrench that actually fits, or isnt too bulky to fit.

Im interested to hear what others use...

 

[Lee]

I use both. dependant on access and which back nuts are fitted plastic or metal.

 

[ProffesorPlumb]

Both are good, but depending on the situation of course

 

[ViSaGe]

I have 3sets of basin wrenches one I hammered the opening a little to reduce size to allow for varying nut sizes on flexi hoses and tap connectors. Wish they would bring out flexi hoses with wing nut like connectors like on filling loops!

 

[ajs heating]

they should never of brought them out in the first place.
the only people that use flexi tap connectors on gravity feeds are cc, ccc, and fast trackers that can't bend copper pipe.

 

[uug197h]

I use adjustable's or box spanners, as for flexi's each to there own but they are supplied with a lot of mono block taps so are becoming standard,

 

[ajs heating]

do agree uug197h as you say they are becoming more common

try and get any modern quality gravity taps now days is beginning to get a joke.

 

[ViSaGe]

flexi hose have their place plus I only use full bore. However I agree I would prefer to pipe using pipe bender as flow is always better.

 

[Londonluke]

I am on a fast learning curve (too fast !!)
i too find Flexi a good idea but on gravity systems they really kill the flow.
"AJS HEATING" Can you tell me more about your opinions on flexis?

Cheers

 

[ajs heating]

flexis ok in the right places. trouble is people are using them cause they are getting lazy or as an easy way out.
yrs ago you wouldn't see a flexi on a wc, looks so ugly.
i've seen them used on radiators, under floorboards etc.

as said before hopeless on gravity flows.

what ever happened to the good old copper pipe and tap connector under the basin's
you give them that exercise to do now days with a bender and lenght of pipe their be scratching their heads.

 

[Phil]

I've started to use full bore flexi's, 13mm instead of 10mm beacause I've been having problems with reduced flow with gravity.
I bought two 'Bear-Hug' wrenches from BES 1/2 and 3/4 and they do a better job then any other wrench in my opinion. I also have a box spanner for when the pipe is off but the 1/2 brass nuts come in two different sizes on the hex for some reason.
I ditch the plastic in favour of brass because the plastic strip before the tap is tight,

we've all been called out to tighten a loose plastic tap nut haven't we?

 

[Alanka]

Too right about the 'Bearhug' wrenches. I've got a set in a plastic box, including ratchet driver and two extensions -- not too pricey. Always in the van now!

But it's still well worth carrying several alternatives, for the odd awkward job where nothing seems to fit!

 

[markfxy]

why bend a peice of copper when you can use a flexi i bet ajs still longs for the days of lead piping and wiping

 

[ajs heating]

why bend a peice of copper when you can use a flexi i bet ajs still longs for the days of lead piping and wiping

copper leaves a better finish, lasts 3 times longer.
and a dam better look if done in chrome pipework than flexis.