Quote:
Originally posted by m. Clarke
I thought i could winterize my Argosy 24 twin but I didn't do it right. The copper pipes froze and split under the washbasin at the back of unit and behind the converter. I think I can replace the pipes with plastic hoses but I don't know how to get the washbasin cabinetry off without destroying it. I can't see any screws, rivets or nails. Maybe it is glued together. There are metal runners with plastic inserts like you would use to hide screws but I don't want to tackle it without some idea of what i'm doing. Any suggestions?
PS....I do appreciate all the reply's I get with these questions.
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OK here's the first thing you do, "Take a deep breath" now here we go.
I just replaced the copper in our Minuet and it's not that hard.
I'm not sure what you mean by plastic pipe. If you are going to do it do it correctly. There are many types of plastic PVC,Vinyl, Polyethelene, ABS...
What you want to use is called "PEX" it is a 'cross linked polyethelene' tubing. This type of tubing is very important for longivity and potablility of the water. It is good for use on Hot or Cold. If it freezes the water will expand the tubing but will not split it.
I did not need to remove any fixtures to replace the water lines.
You will need a "electrical fish tape", and a helper.
With the tape and helper you can push and pull the new lines into place.
Just cut off the old copper as close to where it disappears behind the walls. It is far too much trouble to remove it completely.
I would reccommend that you go down to the local Lowes or Home Depot and get one of the Booklets the tubing manufacturer puts out. The booklet will show you how to use it and all of the fittings available. They even have work sheet with the part numbers so you can plan you job and have the parts you need on hand.
The one issue is clamping the tubing, they sell custom clamps which require a special and expensive tool to install.
They probably work the best, but I used hose clamps and they also worked. That is your call. If I ever get access to a tool I will replace the hose clamps with the real deal though.
Lots of Luck