Hi, I'm trying to replace an ~8yr old rear-threaded diverter tub spout because the seal on the diverter itself doesn't work anymore. For some context, I have two bathrooms and have already replaced the same model once with no (significant) issues.

This time, when I try to unscrew the spout counter-clockwise with an 18" pipe wrench, it spins but doesn't get any looser! I'm afraid that over time with electrolysis and/or from hard water, the spout threads are somehow fused to the nipple. I absolutely do not want to unscrew the copper pipe inside the wall. What should I do???

Any advice is appreciated.

Thank you in advance!

Ethan

I would carefully cut it off with a hax saw. Being careful to 1. not cut myself 2. not cutting too deep to hit the stub out.

If you've spun it around with a pipe wrench and it didn't get looser, then either 1. You've already spun the copper in a sweat adapter 2. You have a set screw spout, turn it upside down with the wrench and look with a flashlight for the set screw.