Recover and change service valve.

 

Use a pair of channellocks for grip. If that doesn't work, change the valve.

 

Yeah it's looking like I will most likely be changing valve. Sucks.

 

No offence, but, why "sucks"? I am the BEST , service valve changer EVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

Assuming you are talking about a residential outdoor condensing unit. In my experience, aside from installation, those valves rarely get touched. If you are going to open the system for service, I would change them.

Otherwise, I would use a slightly oversized drill bit to turn them clockwise, and an "Easy Out" (typically used to remove broken bolts) to turn them counter clockwise.

 

if it is not leaking leave it .

 

X2

 

Redraw the hex with a Dremel carbide bit to the next largest size. Don't forget the metric bits as that might reduce the amount of Dremeling.

 

Why are you wanting to open or close it ? Also "king valves" are on receivers you have a service valve.

 

Use an allen wrench not the service valve ratchet. The ratchet doesn't go in very deep, where the allen wrench does. If you didn't already know this.

 

Thanks everybody.

Went ahead and changed it out and went well. I appreciate all the replies. there is alot of good ideas in this thread.

 

timmy, r u the BEST service valve changer, EVER?

 

An appropriately sized blade,flat head,bit between the valve flats points with maybe a "little" drive into is a quick field fix.
I have to modify my service valve insert tool to accommodate some of the newer valves.

 

How about adding another service valve just outside of the CU and leaving the original valve in place? Maybe its not the best looking solution but it is do-able, maybe?

 

Cut them out and copper pipe it straight in with some shrader taps brazed in. Easy ******* fix.

 

I've done this on cheap ass customers.

You can drive a Torx bit in there with hammer possibly on yer next one ....

 

not necessarily, there are a number (especially carrier) that used king valves on the condensing units.