Well, I had to dig up one hydrant to extend the water line to a new one, so I took it apart to see what was up. The rubber plug in the bottom has a "swelled" look to it. The top of the plug was blocking the drain hole by 1/8", and the diameter of the plug wouldn't allow it to be pulled from the valve like the repair instructions call for. I had to remove the brass valve body from the bottom of the standpipe to get the shut-off plug out, and then it still needed some unfriendly persuasion. The old plug measures 1 1/8" in diameter, and obviously won't fit through the 1" vertical pipe for removal. I found a repair kit for around $18, but I think I'm gonna go with a new hydrant and bet it will last the rest of my life. I'm curious if any of you guys have replaced the shutoff plug by unscrewing the top and pulling the top/rod/plug out. There's no way this plug would come through the 1" vertical pipe.
Thanks for all of your earlier suggestions.
Paul
Thanks for all of your earlier suggestions.
Paul