Bulkhead tightening ideas

[HenHouse]

I need some ideas on how to tighten these bulkheads a little bit more, the space is tight and I can’t get a wrench in there. Just a slight leak right now, just need to tighten a little bit more, Any ideas.

 

[saltyhog]

Channel Locks? Open them wide and slide them 90 degrees to the fitting along side the pipe. Couldn't get much of a turn but you only need 1/4 turn or so.

 

[Saltlife]

One of those tools with rubber strap you pull tight and turn on itself with handle. Kinda like oil filter tool. That's how I had to tighten mine.

 

[Saltlife]

Like these.

 

[Fishmantim]

Are the pvc pipes glued on in side tank bulkhead if so grab pvc tighten from inside tank

 

[ca1ore]

Any way to enlarge the hole in the wood plank?

 

[redfishbluefish]

You come out of the bulkheads and go 90. Are those horizontal runs being supported? If not, the torquing of the pipe might be causing the leak.

 

[Wiskey]

I think channel locks and supporting the pipes is the ticket.

Whiskey

 

[Jeepguy242]

crows foot.....

gonna need to spend some money for one that size, but it will be the easiest...


you can buy just one from sears, or harbor fright but here is what i am talking about in case you dont know... https://www.northerntool.com/shop/t...ru-4e8o1l_CNv7VQvHZTC2OovVomp_XxoCBl4QAvD_BwE

they fit on a socket extension

 

[mtraylor]

Just as an FYI, you should only have to hand tighten those bulkheads. I used to go for the torque it and found that the more torque the more issues you run into. How do you have the gaskets placed. Rings down on the glass on top? The best little trick I found was to put a little petroleum lubricant on the gasket before I put them down. They usually seal immediately by hand, and if you must....and most of us do, give it an extra 1/4 turn with the tool if you have too. May want to give that a try.

 

[Shaun Sweeney]

Drill 2 small holes in the collar - being very careful not to go all the way thru then fabricate a flat piece of metal that inserts into the holes and extends downwards far enough that you can tap it with a small hammer. If you really have a loose collar, it will move.

 

[Cory]

If you hold the bottom nut turning the top one will tighten the bottom nut.

 

[mtraylor]

Oh I also wanted to add. If you use your saliva to moisten the gasket. Its probably the best. That's what I used when I setup my existing aquarium. I couldn't find the scuba diving lub stuff I have for masks etc.

 

[Haberdasher]

You come out of the bulkheads and go 90. Are those horizontal runs being supported? If not, the torquing of the pipe might be causing the leak.

This! The weight of the pipe from the horizontal run will deform the gasket and let water leak through (don't ask how I know ) I agree with others, support the pipe and hand tighten it.