Nipple extractor

[gjat]

I'm working with a mini hacksaw at this point. I can't use the file idea because I've got a 90 degree angle right behind it, like a quarter of an inch. Little strokes with the saw . . . lotsa little friggin' strokes.

I've done this more than once. Wish I saw this thead sooner.

Basically, what you want to do is cut grooves in the inside of the nipple so you can 'grip it' to turn it.
Use a jig saw with a metal cutting blade. Use some blocks of wood taped to the base of the jig saw so that it can rest against the wall. If it's tile, cool. If it's not, use plain white paper taped to the wall so as to not make a mess. Be very patient. Check your work, you don't want to cut through the pipe and into the femal threads. Make two cuts, 3:00 and 9:00 positions.

Next. Sacrifice a screw driver with a square shank. Grind the screw driver blade square with a taper cutting edge so it bites into the pipe when turned. It has to fit tight enough that you 'lightly' tap into the grooves. Turn the square shank with an adjustable wrench as close to the wall as possible. If the pipe is too big to do this with a screwdriver, sacrifice a cheap wood chisel. Save these for later, you might need them 6 years from now.

[gsmittle]

Or...

You could rip into the wall and remove the elbow, breaking off the riser (?) pipe in the process, then replace the entire faucet/shower assembly. This will require multiple trips to the hardware store, and probably a new tool purchase or two...

Honestly, I got nuthin'

g.