Not strong enough to remove push to connect fittings

[BobNJ]

Hi!
I am trying to replace an exterior hose bib that is a sharkbite. I bought the u-shaped removal tool. But, it appears that I am not strong enough to push it down. I have looked at a new connector I purchased and I cannot get that to push down either.
Is there another way to try? Any thoughts would be much appreciated.

 

[Reach4]

Is there another way to try?

A big wrench. This could give you a big handle to hold. The wrench would be adjusted to 5/8 for 1/2 inch copper.

Using what you have, this may be a 2-person job for the less practiced. One to retract the SharkBite and one to provide the pulling-apart while the teeth are retracted, perhaps tugging from outside.

https://www.homedepot.com/p/SharkBi...ainless-Steel-Disconnect-Tong-U715A/206697728
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Tectite...Connect-Fitting-Removal-Tool-69PFRT/302163187
are tools that could make this less challenging.

 

[Sponsor]

 

[Fitter30]

They make a.tool hat is similar to a pair of pliers
https://www.sharkbite.com/video/how-use-sharkbite-removal-tool

 

[John Gayewski]

You need to hold the sharkbite fitting fully engaged (inserted) before you use the tool to retract the teeth. Don't just go straight to pulling on the tool/fitting. Disengage the teeth using the tool. Then pull it apart. Push the fitting together before trying to retract the teeth.

I know this post is repetitive trying to make it clear.

Also make sure there is no water pressure in the pipe. That could be keeping the fitting engaged.

 

[JohnCT]

Don't just go straight to pulling on the tool/fitting. Disengage the teeth using the tool. Then pull it apart. Push the fitting together before trying to retract the teeth.

Yep. A lot of people miss the part about pushing *in* before pulling back. The teeth are at an angle to dig in, and retracting the teeth with the tool and pushing in should allow a full release.

John