1

enter image description here

enter image description here

I need to remove this metal conduit or at least bring it even with the floor. I don't need to worry about preserving the wires inside the conduit. I only have a little hacksaw, but I'm open to buying other tools if needed. What's the best way to get rid of this conduit so that it's even with or below the floor?

Improve this question
6
2

I'm assuming you don't have access to the backside of this conduit. If you did, you would just disassemble it - find the nearest coupler, uncouple it, and remove the pipe.

Remember to remove these orphan wires entirely; all the way back to the previous junction box (or past it, if they go past it). You're not supposed to leave orphan wires, though.

Improve this answer
9
  • I can't seem to pull the wires out no matter how hard I pull, but I have confirmed there's no power going through them. Is that good enough? I don't know how I would remove the wires completely. – dfitzgerald Oct 8 '19 at 3:33
  • 1
    @dfitzgerald You're pulling from the other box, right? You shouldn't pull from the pictured end. 2 wires shouldn't pull that hard out of 1/2" conduit, so if 10 pounds of pull doesn't do the job, there must be an intermediate box or conduit body somewhere. Again, Code requires it be accessible. – Harper - Reinstate Monica Oct 8 '19 at 3:42
  • A toner can help you track it through your walls since the conduit is metal. – Fresh Codemonger Oct 8 '19 at 5:33
  • @dfitzgerald You show no power now. The concern is, what if the other end is not simply chopped off somewhere but switched off (breaker or a regular switch) and someone flips it back on, not knowing where it goes. If all goes well, either nothing happens or a breaker trips quickly. But if it doesn't go well, you end up with a fire. – manassehkatz-Moving 2 Codidact Oct 8 '19 at 14:14
  • @FreshCodemonger Brilliant. Put the toner on the conduit... – Harper - Reinstate Monica Oct 8 '19 at 18:17
1

Try a reciprocating saw with a blade designed for metal. Big brand name is Sawzall but all the major tool companies have them.

enter image description here

They are available both corded and battery powered.

Improve this answer
1

maybe you can get the hackaw blade (without the handle) into the hole beside the pipe and then saw through it holding the blade in you hand, in locking pliers, or in a special blade handle. enter image description here

Improve this answer
1
  • Yep. Flex it tight to the floor. A rag around the handle end will prevent injury. – isherwood Oct 8 '19 at 14:46
1

A dremel with a metal cutting wheel will work.

Improve this answer
1
0

4.5" angle grinder. Pick one up at harbor freight for $15. They are so cheap I just keep 3 around with different thickness discs attached instead of fumbling to change them. If one dies you have spares.

The other tools - oscillating/reciprocating/dremel generally are going to be more expensive, slower, and harder to get a flush cut. While I tend to buy cheap grinders I don't recommend cheaping out on the other tools.

Improve this answer
1

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service, privacy policy and cookie policy

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.