Need some ball valve advice

[erspimp03]

Hi all, I am a DIY-er and have browsed this forum extensively in the past for help with my projects, so thank you all!

https://imgur.com/H0bUiZD

I need to replace a water heater supply line. I found what looks like the main water shut off, but the ball valve looks really crusty. I cannot locate the curb stop and would like to avoid totally tearing up the yard. Is it safe to try this valve? I understand that it may not work, but what I don't want to happen is a major water leak from messing with it! What would you do?

I am also planning to replace this valve and another ball valve in the future. All the recommended brands seem to be ones that I cannot buy locally. In my area the ones available at the plumbing supply are: MA Stewart, Kitz, KVC, and Boshart. Which of these is the best to go with?

 

[James Henry]

You can call the city and they will locate your main shut off. Ball valves sometimes lock up but rarely leak. I would try to shut it off.

 

[Sponsor]

 

[erspimp03]

You can call the city and they will locate your main shut off. Ball valves sometimes lock up but rarely leak. I would try to shut it off.

Thanks! It seemed to turn ok and didn't leak. Wonder how much it will cost to have the city come dig up the curb stop..

 

[James Henry]

It's there box, they shouldn't charge you.

 

[Fitter30]

Turn on bath tub valve cold while trying to close the valve. Don't turn it more than a 1/8 turn. Open it then close it a little more. Three times to close. If it gets hard to turn stop. Tub valve is open to flush out anything that breaks loose.