Can't get the shower neck/arm off. The threads are rusted out, I can't get it to unscrew. Anyone know how?

Question

Can't get the shower neck/arm off. The threads are rusted out, I can't get it to unscrew. Anyone know how?

Answer 1

try to tighten the arm a bit. you may be able to get a little turn out of it. sometimes that can be enough to "break" the rust seal. assuming you have already tried a rust penetrating spray, you can also use heat on it. heating up the metal will make it expand and should help break the seal. a standard propane torch will work. mapp gas, which burns hotter, can be also be used.

Answer 2

Removing a stuck shower head, neck or arm needs some care and caution as you do not want to loosen/break the pipe in the wall.  One solution is to place a wrench (pipe, adjustable, what ever is appropriate for the surface) on each side of the joint.  After securing the 2 wrenches carefully squeeze the 2 wrench handles together without twisting the main pipe.  This way you will loosen the join without imparting a load to the rest of the plumbing.  Apply liquid wrench to the joint before hand.