Can I completely replace a standard brass stopcock such as this one:
http://www.toolstation.com/images/library/stock/webbig/71816.jpg

with a lever ball valve like this: 
http://www.toolstation.com/images/library/stock/webbig/18591.jpg

I read the archives and found that people have used these in addition
to a traditional stopcock, but I'm thinking of removing the stopcock
completely as it takes a lot of levering force to turn it off
completely.

Any disadvantages in using a lever ball valve for this?

TIA

Mr F.

"Mr Fizzion" wrote in message :


> Can I completely replace a standard brass stopcock with a lever ball valve


The disadvantage with ball valves is that they are not so good for control.
Just cracking a ball valve will tend to wear the seat material.  Best 
usually to keep ball valves for strictly on-off duties.
Control on the incoming main can be essential to achieve a balance between:
High enough pressure to serve all users.
and
Not such high pressure that the pipes clang with water hammer when turning 
off taps etc

Phil

> Can I completely replace a standard brass stopcock such as this one:
> http://www.toolstation.com/images/library/stock/webbig/71816.jpg
>
> with a lever ball valve like this:
> http://www.toolstation.com/images/library/stock/webbig/18591.jpg


Lever ball valve. Every time. Mine is additional to the old stop cock, but
that is because neither it, nor the street cock worked*, so removal of the
old one was more hassle than it is worth. I actually spent extra money to
buy a branded Pegler one, given its importance.


> Any disadvantages in using a lever ball valve for this?


As a plumber, you might prefer the stopcock, as you get guaranteed
replacement work in 10 years when the stopcock fails yet again.

Christian.

* I can assure you that adding a new valve without the capability of turning
off the supply is quite a nerve racking experience, but surprisingly little
water actually escaped.