Crown Nut Removal Wrench

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Eddie_T

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I need to renew the stem packing for a toilet stop valve. Access and visibility are very limited. Is there a special stubby wrench or deep well socket that plumbers use in these circumstances? It seems to be 3/4" but I am not certain of this as wrench handle length is in the way. I am having to work behind me in the blind while sitting on the commode using right hand only. Also how many turns of graphite packing is recommended?
 
A picture of what you are dealing with would help.

It seems unlikely that your valve is that hard to reach, if the toilet was installed with code approved side clearances.

Pics will tell the tale.

A pic of the valve will get you much better help.

Hold your phone down there and take a few dozen angles, one or two will likely be a good view.

It is often easier to just change out the whole valve stem.

Unless your valve is ancient or some kooky design.

If you can’t find a stubby wrench, which are common, buy a cheap chinese junky one and cut the handle shorter with a hacksaw.

Meanwhile, pictures please.
 
I was hoping someone had been there. I'll just improvise, I'll remove the handle and use sockets to determine the size then decide an approach.
 
Can a stop valve be repacked, yes, is it worth the time, not likely.
I'd just change the whole valve.
Without that picture no one has a clue if it was soldered, compression, Shark Bite.
For some strange reason you want to repack it a simple basin wrench would work.
 
Eddie, what are you talking about?

Did you even read my response?
Yep, I read it but it didn't help. I am fully capable of improvising. I was thinking that maybe a plumber had a tool like a stubby but thin wrench similar to a flair nut wrench. When you start asking for pics of a chrome plated 3/8" stop valve I realize I might as well do my own improvisation.
 
Can a stop valve be repacked, yes, is it worth the time, not likely.
I'd just change the whole valve.
Without that picture no one has a clue if it was soldered, compression, Shark Bite.
For some strange reason you want to repack it a simple basin wrench would work.
I can repack a stem in minutes, access is my problem. A basin wrench might work but they are a bit sloppy and I prefer the feel of a regular wrench when tightening a crown nut. Replacing the valve would require removing the toilet for access and I will go there only as a last resort. It's a threaded chrome plated 3/8" multi-turn stop valve but that has no bearing on removing a crown nut.
 
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Eddie, you are really not here for help.
But you definitely do need help.
I don't understand your problem. My problem is that most wrenches for 3/4" nuts are built for motor mounts or such heavy duty use. I thought maybe a plumber would have a solution. I am sorry I ruffled your feathers.
 
If you're committed to doing this,
If there isn't room to get a wrench on a crown nut there isn't room to replace a stem or valve. I have suggested my own solution but the off-the-wall comments keep coming.

remove the tank for access.
From a one piece toilet??
 
Sorry to be so late in getting back to post. Using a socket set to find the size of the crown nut I found it to be 7/8" or 22mm. I used a ratchet handle to tighten the nut a little but have packing string available if it should need it later. I also have a 7/8" flare nut wrench that has a shorter handle and ordered a 3/8 to 1/2 drive adapter so I can use a smaller ratchet handle next time.
 
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