Any tips for measuring off-set needed in awkward bath tap changes?

[WaterTight]

When re-piping (perhaps to replace contorted fleximagigs)

I find you can never view your measuring from an angle that gives you any accuracy. Perhaps some system involving pipe cleaners and bits of string.

Thank you brothers, sisters, comrades and boyfriends.

 

[SimonG]

Sorry WT, I never measure, all by eye. Once saw somebody use a bit of hosepipe.

 

[SimonJohns]

http://www.ukcopperboard.co.uk/literature/pdfs/Installation-Tips/Bending-machine.pdf

 

[Best]

I hand tighten a Cu tap connector to the bath tap & push a straight piece of copper pipe that is plenty long into it, keeping the pipe not under strain. Just measure the back to back width, ( or the easier from nearest side width & add pipe width ) but take note of the slight angle the tap threads often has. Once bent, try it in before you remove all to solder. Usually very accurate.

 

[M.Joshi]

You could make up a tool that would help you measure. A semi-rigid piece of wire inside a hosepipe. Shape it acccordingly and the shape will be maintained when you remove it from under the bath.

Similar to the flexible goosenecks you see on some tools/mini-tripods etc.

Edit: I remember these graph drawing flexible rulers from school. May also do the job:

http://www.ryman.co.uk/1342768199/H...-9565-6fc82074fe86&istItemId=pxxriqw&istBid=t

 

[tamz]

Just look at it and think ...... about 3 " will do it :lol:
or
as Best said.

 

[JAP&H]

Screwfix catalogue, page 479 items at bottom right.

Look crap when fitted but what I use to form a template of the bends Required.

Can then pull bends with a degree accuracy.

Eyes past use by date so can't rely on them.

Be gentle with it and it will last, mines currently on year four.

 

[Destroyer2813]

Im with Simon and Tamz WT look at it gauge what u need you get a sick sense for how much to do after quite a few years, u given up with the flexis then:teeth_smile:

 

[Guest123]

If you really can't measure it, use one of those bendy ties. Local Poundshop sell them in packs. You can always tie yourself in knots afterwards when you look at all that scrap copper you've made! LOL

Good on you for not taking the easy way out and using another flexi.

 

[PlumbBobBob]

another option is to use an offcut of leccy cable. 6mm or 10mm will do to hold the shape.