W124 SLS sphere replacement

[K1100]

Hi everyone. I am partway through replacing spheres on my 320 te 1993 and one seized fitting has defeated me. The car is mostly corrosion-free but I cannot remove the pipe to the passenger side sphere, and even though I have used a SnapOn quality flare spanner the nut has rounded off. Before cutting through the pipe I want to be sure I can replace it. MB have the pipe in stock but I am frightened to try to undo the other end at the self-levelling valve in case that end is also seized. I prepared everything with 24 hrs of repeated Plus Gas and so far the valve end also won't loosen off. I can't face putting more pressure on the spanner.
I have seen references to compression fittings that will make possible a joint between a length of the new pipe and the existing pipe but I have Googled every combination of words to find such fittings with no success. Where do I get them?
Thanks.

 

[om613]

Have you got some propane heat on it?

Just done my 210's 3 rusted SLS pipes, OH it was a truely hateful exercise!

 

[K1100]

Have you got some propane heat on it?

Just done my 210's 3 rusted SLS pipes, OH it was a truely hateful exercise!

Hi om613... no, I haven't tried heat yet but that will be the next step later today. I think I will also take the plunge and cut the pipe so I can get a proper spanner or socket on the connector instead of the flare spanner. I have ordered the replacement pipe and it looks possible to wiggle that into place at both ends.

 

[om613]

Heat is the key...the SLS valve connection on mine was a right bugger. Try not to set the car on fire, though!
Made my new lines up in copper

 

[LostKiwi]

Did you try a spanner like this?
https://www.ebay.co.uk/i/3713584592...=9046157&device=c&campaignid=805983114&crdt=0

A six sided spanner will be far less likely to round the nuts.

 

[K1100]

Did you try a spanner like this?
https://www.ebay.co.uk/i/3713584592...=9046157&device=c&campaignid=805983114&crdt=0

A six sided spanner will be far less likely to round the nuts.

Hi LostKiwi... I had no success with a flare spanner at the SLS valve end after an hour-long routine of alternate hot-air-gun/squirt-of-Plusgas (and fire extinguisher under car with me) so cut the pipe and used a socket but at the sphere end I will have to use an oscillating saw as soon as I get a new blade this morning. New pipe should arrive this morning.