Check Key Backflow Tool Tips

Thank you for purchasing the Check Key Backflow Tool Ames 2000ss, 3000ss, 4000ss, 5000ss and Watts 994 – 774 Check Tools. Our backflow tools work with both reduced pressure zone (RPZ) and double check backflow assemblies. A proper working backflow device can prevent contamination of drinking water from harmful toxins including fertilizers, weed killers and fire protection chemicals. Please feel free to email us with any additional tips, or comments about the Check Key backflow tool and its use.

The Check Key Backflow Tools were developed because Ames does not make a tool for the job and we were tearing the check valves up getting them out. We had a problem getting the check valves tight enough to seat the check in the body. The Check
Key backflow tools have been able to safely remove all the #1 check valves we have encountered. We have been using the Check Key backflow tools in the field for some time now and found a few tips to help remove and install the #1 check valve.

• The Ames #1 check valves have slots in the perimeter that the Check Key backflow tool fits into. Rotate the Check Key backflow tool and align the “legs” until it fits into the slots. You may need to add pressure on the Check Key backflow tool to get it to snap into place.
• A check valve that is very tight will need a lot of torque to remove. A piece of wood, like a 2×4 for the 6” check valve or a 1×2 for the 4” check valve or smaller, wedged in the opening to hold the tool tight against the check valve is a safe way to apply lots of torque without having your hand in the device in the event the Check Key backflow tool slips out of the slots under extreme torque. You can hold pressure on the Check Key backflow tool with your gloved hand while turning a ½” ratchet. The 4000ss #1 check valve is very difficult to remove when new, and after time they can be exceptionally hard.
• We have found the need for a “cheater” pipe to be used on some ratchets to add leverage for very tight check valves, especially the 6”.  A piece of ¾” steel pipe two feet long slid over the handle of the ratchet can give you the leverage you need. The Check Key backflow tool can take leverage. We haven’t broken one yet.
• It helps to grease the “o” ring with FDA approved silicone grease when installing the new check valve. Go ahead and give it a firm tightening, but not too tight, when installing to seat the check valve in the body.