On Friday, July 20, 2012 12:25:16 PM UTC-4, J wrote:
I'm trying to replace my old tub spout, but can't get the darned thing off. There's no set screw, so I assume it's the screw-on type. I applied quite a bit of torque with a big wrench, but the thing would not budge, though I could feel the whole pipe assembly moving. In case it makes a difference, there's no diverter on the tub spout, the diverter is a button just below the shower knob on the shower knob assembly.

I read in a previous post about applying heat, though I'm a bit nervous about using a propane torch, or possibly cutting the spout off - though I'm not sure how I could do that without ruining the pipe sticking out of the wall (is that that what's called the nipple?), which I'd like to preserve in order to put the replacement onto.

This all in a big plastic tub/shower surround.

What are my best options to resolve this problem short of calling a plumber?

Thanks.

-J

I'd take a sawsall to the spout and see if I could remove some of the spout behind where it screws on to the pipe coming out of the wall. That would let you get a look at it. And possibly soak it down with wd40 or other chemicals.