I have several tubs in an older home constrcted in the 1930's that in the drain do not have the cross piece in the drain so a tub wrench can remove them. Instead they have 2 slots cut in the side of the drain across from each other like you need a piece of metal (a key?) to drop in there then the tub wrench could turn the shoe. I have a bad leak on one of the tubs at this drain where the plumbing dope has failed around the shoe. I have tried several different metals to make a key but it is so tight that all break. These are cast iron tubs so I do not want to damage them and I would like to save the drain also if possible. Can I heat up the pipe and drain with a blowtorch to try & break the seal??? Please help, Ken.

Unable to unscrew the chromed flange in the bathroom sink basin from the drain assembly. Would leave it; however, I have replaced the faucet and pop-up and it's pretty worn. It turns with the drain assembly. Any ideas? Is there a tool for this removal? I believe the old assembly is from Stanadyne. Thank you.