Tool Tips - February 2012

A second set of hands
Another use for Coca-Cola
No more sticky gloves

A second set of hands

This is a simple idea that has helped me a lot. When running cast-iron risers, I use a magnetic torpedo level as a second set of hands to keep my no-hub bands from sliding down the pipe. As I get ready to assemble the fittings vertically on the riser pipe, I put the magnetic level on the pipe about 6 in. below where I’m working. I put the metal part of the band on and let it drop down to the level, while the rubber part of the band goes on the fitting. I can easily slide the metal part up to tighten everything.

Another benefit of this tip? The level helps you keep everything nice and plumb.

Andy Banach
Banach’s Plumbing
Newnan, Ga.

Another use for Coca-Cola

If you have a pitless adapter on a steel-cased well that is corroded and will not pull out, pour a couple quart bottles of Coca-Cola into the well and wait 24 hours. It will pull right out. We had a pitless adapter that flattened the tires on a tractor and loader trying to pull the pump out - two quarts of Coca-Cola and 24 hours later, we pulled the pump by hand. This tip has saved me time and money.

Greg Hilton
Hilton Plumbing & Heating
Pana, Ill.

No more sticky gloves

Ever get pipe dope, thread sealant or pvc glue on your gloves or hands? To keep from changing gloves or getting the pipe dope on everything you’re working on, save the concrete dust from drilling holes in a small container. When you get the glue/pipe dope/thread sealant on your gloves or hands, just rub some concrete dust on it. The dust sticks to it and you can continue to work without it all over your hands.

Greg Szumowski
Miller Place, N.Y.