Do gate valves fail in the closed position?

Hi Justbuster

They sure do. Here, the gradations cut into the spool can act as weak spots in the stem and simply shear off if the valve gets over tightened or has simply worn down over time...*UGH*! Reopening these valves is always a concern after we tighten them down...no matter how gently we attempt to close them!

This is not usually a concern on new gate valves.

That answer your question?

Mark

Gate valves can be a problem as Mark said, I have seen them unthread when well worn. I have replaced all mine with 1/4 turn ball valves