Adjust ball valve in cold water tank

Almost_In_The_Black

Hi all, I'm hoping you can help with a small problem. I need to adjust the ball valve on my cold water tank as it doesn't seem to be turning off as quickly as it should and the overflow is leaking. Problem is because of the location (in a small cupboard on a shelf above the boiler) I can't get in to see what it looks like and am instead relying on my sense of touch - any tips on how this could be done easily or shall I give up and let the pros do it (I'm having some other work done shortly anyway but I'd rather sort this now).

TimBuckTeeth

Depends on the type but most older ball valves don't really have a way of adjusting and require the metal arm to be bent. But most likely to be a worn washer or maybe sticking due to limescale, try replacing the washer first.

Try a mirror and a torch to have a look at it. To replace the washer on the piston type the water needs to be switched off then the float arm removed by removing the split pin then unscrew the brass end cap to remove the piston. Then the end of the piston unscrews to release the washer.

http://www.ultimatehandyman.co.uk/ball_valves/washer_replacement.htm

http://www.diyfixit.co.uk/diy/plumbing/ball_valve/ball_valve_1.html