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I recently replaced my sink top, which is now 2cm thicker than before, and unfortunately the tap’s thread bar no longer fits properly. I’m wondering if there’s a way to extend the existing thread bar, or if I can purchase a longer one from the market.
I tried ordering one from AliExpress, but the size was incorrect. The inner diameter is 31mm and the outer diameter is 33mm. I’ve checked several websites, including Bunnings, but haven’t been able to find a thread bar with the same dimensions.
Would you happen to know where I could find one that fits, or if there are any alternative solutions—besides calling a plumber?
Thank you in advance for your help!
Morning @Andy5
How incredibly frustrating for you - so near, yet so far.
One thought would be visiting plumbing supplies like Tradelink and Reece - in person.
Failing that, if it were me, I would be so angry by this stage I'd have a crack at cutting and extending the length with small plate inserts welded into position.
Probably three inserts.
And whatever damage is done to the thread immediately above and below the welds - is irreverent - provided the extreme top and bottom ends are kept slag free. My thought would be extensive wrapping of Leukoplast to the ends prior to welding.
I'm happy to help with this if there is no alternative.
Hopefully better solutions will be forthcoming for you today.
Cheers!
Hi @Andy5,
Unfortunately, I am not aware of a product that you could use to extend out your tap's fixing.
The idea that I had, which will solve your problem, is to drill a hole in the underside of the benchtop so that the fixing nut can fit inside it.
You could use a hole saw to cut the larger hole around 10mm into the benchtop, then use a chisel to remove the ring of material that will be left.
With this larger hole, you can just use the fixings as they were originally intended.
Let me know what you think.
Jacob
A new day.
A new coffee.
New ideas. I now partially reject my idea yesterday.
I didn't think it possible to match an outer diameter of 33 mm - thinking such a plumbing fitting would be somewhat like bicycle tube - unique sizes.
But I have sourced that outer diameter. I was even wondering if I can cut a matching thread with it.
Or, cut your fitting in half and weld - 'graft' - a piece of the above pipe between the threaded sections. Instant new length.
Happy to help with this if you want.
Whatever happens - please let us know how you get on.
Cheers.
