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Topic: Kitchen sink removal 1988 22’ (Read 251 times) previous topic - next topic
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Kitchen sink removal 1988 22’
 I have a water leak under the sink. As you know, the access is not great unless you have a trained chimpanzee. I should replace all the Polybutylene plumbing instead of patching it up and waiting for it to leak somewhere else. I’ve removed drop-in sinks from residential kitchens before, and it’s do-able without destroying the counter top. Anyone done this in their LD ? Any tips you can pass on to me?
I try not to break the rules but merely test their elasticity.  '88 22RL converted to Rear Dinette
Re: Kitchen sink removal 1988 22’
Reply #1 –
I have removed two LD sinks....what a PIA!
LD glues the sink in place with globs of polyurethane, making it very difficult to remove without damaging the countertop.
I outline the edges of the old sink with several layers of painter's tape for protection. I use a 1' wide putty knife sharpened to a razor's edge to slowly work around the sink, cutting through the polyurethane.
Be prepared for a long process, LD had no intention that the sink would ever be removed.

When picking a new sink, besides fitting the hole in the countertop, make sure the new sink is no deeper than the original to ensure it will drain properly. Too deep a sink will not drain, keep this in mind when looking for sinks. It is difficult or impossible on many models to lower the existing drain plumbing without tearing into the wall behind the sink cabinet.
If Todd has an original sink available, I would buy and use it to eliminate conversion issues.

Larry

Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze
Re: Kitchen sink removal 1988 22’
Reply #2 –
Larry W thanks for the tips. With the PIA factor in mind, would you attempt a re-pipe without removing the sink? I’ve considered surgically removing the wall under the flip-up counter extension. Then the drawer slides can be removed for good access. Wall can then be replaced and the “scar” hidden with some molding.
I try not to break the rules but merely test their elasticity.  '88 22RL converted to Rear Dinette
Re: Kitchen sink removal 1988 22’
Reply #3 –
Quote from: Dazed  - 
Larry W thanks for the tips. With the PIA factor in mind, would you attempt a re-pipe without removing the sink? I’ve considered surgically removing the wall under the flip-up counter extension. Then the drawer slides can be removed for good access. Wall can then be replaced and the “scar” hidden with some molding.

I would try to change the freshwater plumbing without removing the sink. If you can remove the end wall without destroying it, give it a try, and reinstall the wall so it can be removed in the future. This would make future water pump replacement much easier.
When working with Pex in tight spots, I like using Sharkbite fittings to make the connections, much easier than trying to get a Pex crimper inside a cabinet.
SharkBite Plumbing Products: Pipe Fittings, Adapters, PEX & More

Do you intend on replacing the sink in the future?

Larry
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze
 
Re: Kitchen sink removal 1988 22’
Reply #4 –
I’ve used Sharkbites on copper for temporary repairs. With the low pressure in an Rv I’m sure they will be fine. Nothing wrong with the original sink-I was just trying to gain more access.
I try not to break the rules but merely test their elasticity.  '88 22RL converted to Rear Dinette
Re: Kitchen sink removal 1988 22’
Reply #5 –
Quote from: Dazed  - 
I’ve used Sharkbites on copper for temporary repairs. With the low pressure in an RV, I’m sure they will be fine. Nothing wrong with the original sink-I was just trying to gain more access.

Good chance if you did remove the sink, it would be damaged. Accessing the plumbing by removing the wall and drawer slides is a better way of doing this. I have used Sharkbite fitting for years on both copper and Pex tubing, they work fine.

Larry
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze