Just over a year ago I installed a new sillcock and connected a 2-way adapter. I needed to remove it a few days ago but had a heck of a time. Tried some penetrating spray, no luck. The nut was round, so I thought the best thing to use was vice-grips. With them locked down (I think) as tight as possible, still slipped. I was finally successful with a heat gun. I have a blow torch, but thought I may do some damage. A few years ago a kid at the hardware store suggested the heat gun for heating and removing an old vinyl floor. Worked great for that, and heat shrink tubing. A good tool to have on hand.

When I simply unscrewed the 2nd adapter by hand the thread broke off inside it. I have just the hose connector on now. If I were to get another 2-way, should I spray the threads with WD-40, something else, or use teflon tape?

 

I use Teflon tape. WD40 is not the miracle that people think it is.

 

Sounds like galling effect took place. Were the materials two different types of metal. Thread galling is a common, yet seldom understood problem with threaded fasteners. Galling, often referred to as a cold-welding process, can occur when the surfaces of male and female threads are placed under heavy pressure. Use the plastic splitters. You won't have that problem again. Or don't tighten so severely. Hand tighten then maybe just a tad more.

 

I never heard of galling. From the description (also looked it up) it sounds like that's what took place. I'll use plastic splitters next time. I don't recall if I used pliers when I installed the metal splitter last year, but I must have which probably wasn't necessary.

 

Don't use the plastic (IMO), they can freeze and split easily and hard sun can make them brittle. Cheap pot metal like you had on there is probably even worse. Get actual brass fittings and they will be fine and last long time. I have some that are easily over 10 yrs old. Once a year I spray the ball valve (they have shutoffs like your top one) with some silicone or WD40 and work it til they are moving free and easy.

You can use some PTFE anti-seize (or even regular stuff) on the threads also.

The actual brass ones (not plated or brass colored metal...gotta watch for that scam) are around $10 each, but you can get them on Amazon for $5. You can get a 4 way connector for $14 and eliminate one like you have now. https://www.amazon.com/A1004-WARRANT...Hose+Connector

You can get all brass, incl the shutoff handles or plastic handles. Large rubber overmold to make it easy to attach or loosen, or just brass. Many options. Worth every dime...again, IMO.

 

Wish I saw this post yesterday. Bought a plastic one. It was 6 + change with tax. Oh well - I guess I'll use it until it fails in whatever way, and next time buy brass.