Pipe Threader
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![]() Heavy Duty 1 2 to 2 Adjustable Ratchet Pipe Threader Threading $99.99 Time Remaining: 21d 11h 24m Buy It Now for only: $99.99 |
![]() Ridgid 37825 Red 1 2 Pipe 14 Threads per Inch NPT Manual Pipe Threader Die $42.15 Time Remaining: 11d 3h 24m Buy It Now for only: $42.15 |
![]() Ridgid 37830 3 4 Pipe 14 Threads per Inch NPT Manual Pipe Threader Die $42.15 Time Remaining: 11d 3h 35m Buy It Now for only: $42.15 |
![]() Ridgid 37840 Red 1 1 4 Pipe 11 1 2 Threads per Inch NPT Manual Pipe Threader $50.03 Time Remaining: 11d 3h 24m Buy It Now for only: $50.03 |
Pipe Threader

How to Use a Sewer Snake
Most people have known the frustration of trying to clear tough clogs from drains. With some particularly-difficult clogs, pouring hot water down the drain doesn't work. Sending down strong drain-cleaning chemicals to clear the muck away doesn't work. When your drain is clogged and the material that's causing the problem is stubbornly sticking in place, it may be time for you to use a sewer snake. In this article, we'll describe what a sewer snake is, when you should use one and how to use it safely.
What Is A Sewer Snake?
A sewer snake is a long hose that you can send down a drain to clear away clogs. They have an auger at one end and typically use a hand crank at the other end (for home use) to power the auger. The auger on the end of the snake drills through the clog, breaking it apart and helping to remove it from the drain.
They can also be called plumbing snakes or augers. You can buy a hand-powered sewer snake or a motorized version. If you intend to buy a motorized snake, you'll have a choice between a hand held model or a "drum auger." The drum auger is actually meant to be used by professional plumbers. It's a heavy-duty piece of equipment and is generally more than what is needed by most homeowners. For home use, you can also buy a "toilet auger" which are specifically-designed to clear clogs and obstructions from your toilet's plumbing.
When Should You Use A Sewer Snake?
Most clogs that you'll find throughout the plumbing in your home won't require the use of a sewer snake. Easy clogs can often be cleared away with hot water or a drain-cleaning chemical that you can buy at your local store. However, when there's a clog that stubbornly refuses to break loose, a handheld sewer snake is likely your best weapon.
How To Use A Sewer Snake
First, you should wear gloves while working with a sewer snake. Make sure you use gloves that won't slip easily. Have a bucket and some towels handy before you begin. It's likely that the floor near where you're working will become wet as you're trying to unclog the drain. The towels also provide a surface on which to place the debris that your sewer snake removes.
Push the snake into the drain while cranking the handle clockwise. You'll be able to tell when the auger contacts the material causing the clog. When this happens, pull back a bit while continuing to work the auger into the material. Doing this helps it dig into whatever is causing the clog and break it loose. Once the blockage is cleared, try to pull the debris back up the drain with the auger end. That way, you can ensure the debris won't cause a clog further down the drain.
Using a sewer snake isn't hard. But, it can be messy. So, be sure to have plenty of towels nearby as you're working on the clog. In the end, your sewer snake should be able to clear just about any type of debris that might be causing a problem. Ideally, you'll be able to remove the material by pulling it out of the drain. If you're unable to break through the debris, consider calling a professional plumber. Chances are, you're going to need his tools.
About the Author
John Molar knows a thing or two about pipes. After clogging his own several times, he decided it was cheaper to buy a Sewer Snake and fix the problem himself. When he's not unclogging a pipe, he spends time working on his website about the
Ridgid Pipe Threader
and
Ridgid Seesnake
.
working a pipe threader?
Any info on tips or operation of a electric threader.
Is this a hard machine to use. Thanks
Its basically pretty easy to do . I assume you will be using a ridgid brand threader.
Long pipes will have to be supported at the end leaving the threader. Pipe lenghts of arround 4 feet you do not need the support stand.
Keep the threads well lubricated when cutting to keep the die teeth cool.
Don't over thread... pipe threads are tapered at 3/4 inch per foot. The male and female threads are both tapered so the joint becomes a crush fit to seal the joint. (pipe dope is also recommended either teflon tape or rector seal #5)
The depth of the die cutting teeth are set at this taper. If you thread beyond this depth then the extra depth leaving the die will not have a taper and can bottom out in your fitting before properly engaging and sealing the joint.
The ridgid threader has a quick release on the threading attachment. The teeth are brought into cutting position with the lever. as the die nears the completion of its cut you stop the cutting by opening the teeth with this lever and stopping the maching. There should be a foot switch to start the motor, also make sure thatthe direction switch is set to forward.
Cutting teeth need to swapped for different size pipes. consult a thread chart for the proper pitch. The quick release threader attachment also has an adjustment for pipe size. The same pitch can be use on several sized pipe. Also make sure that all three sets of cutting teeth are the same size (pitch)
The first operation is usuall cutting the pipe to lenght.. this can be done by having the machine turn the pipe and operate the cutter braced against the rails.
After the pipe is cut the pipe inside diameter is reamed out with a tapered reamer to remove chips and create a smooth surface.
The pipe end is then threaded
RIDGID 690-C (41967) Power Threader Pipe capacity ½" - 2"




