Replacing PVB

[mihomeowner]

My backflow preventer/pressure vacuum breaker cracked because I didn't get it to last fall before a early hard freeze. Stupid home owner mistake...

Anyway, I'm trying to figure out to take one of these off and replace it, and I have seen some posts saying it's pretty easy... but I am not sure where to start. Do I need to take a hack saw to this thing to get it off? I see threads everywhere... but tried to take a wrench to them with no luck.

Some of the threads have teflon tape on them, I would assume these should unscrew.

Please help!! See attached pictures of my setup.

[Stillwater]

You probably don't want to hear this..... A back flow is a important safety device I suggest calling a local contractor.
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[mihomeowner]

Originally Posted by Stillwater

You probably don't want to hear this..... A back flow is a important safety device I suggest calling a local contractor.
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Thanks for the reply. I totally understand, and am still considering just calling someone to get it done. Any idea how much labor it would cost someone to do this? It seems its a one hour job if someone knows what they are doing. Would I be able to get a plumber to do this or do I need to call a lawn service company that offers sprinkler repair?

I still might try to do it myself though... I like to get my hands dirty.

[Stillwater]

Do you have the part ? Cost of parts their mark up 1 hr labor and service charge if they have one. I don't know the Mi. Market you can buy the part yourself and call your plumber.
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[Kiril]

For the want of some unions.

[mihomeowner]

Originally Posted by Stillwater

Do you have the part ? Cost of parts their mark up 1 hr labor and service charge if they have one. I don't know the Mi. Market you can buy the part yourself and call your plumber.
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Yes, I have the part. Might call around and get some quotes.

In the meantime, looking at the pictures, I have to saw one side off and then unscrew it, and then rejoin the part I sawed off... is that correct?

[greenmonster304]

Just un-sweat the joints and replace with unions for next time.
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[Stillwater]

What green monster said
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[windflower]

Other than being cracked does it still work? I didn't see the crack, but it may be possible to fix it with jb weld. I can hear the laughing already, but sometimes this does work.

[mihomeowner]

Originally Posted by windflower

Other than being cracked does it still work? I didn't see the crack, but it may be possible to fix it with jb weld. I can hear the laughing already, but sometimes this does work.

I didn't take a picture of the crack, I should of. Also the outlet pipe is cracked too and needs to be replaced. So I don't think I can patch it up, also I already the part. Thanks for the idea tho!