On Friday, July 20, 2012 at 9:25:16 AM UTC-7, 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

Most of the advice given online regarding this miserable situation is horrible!!! Is there not an expert who knows how these poorly designed spouts are manufactured and designed for installation AND removal????? Because of the lack of credible information, I am going to cut the copper pipe, then solder a threaded fitting back in place on the copper pipe so the end result is being able to screw the new fixture back into place tight against the wall for easy removal in the future! This is crazy!!!