Ask Me Help Desk - Cast iron soil pipe

I have 3 horizontal hub and spigot joints to repair on 4" cast iron sewer pipe. The pipe itself is @ 5 years old.

I would like to know if this is the correct way to solve this problem...

1... attempt to recaulk joint as is (dont take it apart)

If this is unsuccessful then

2... remove lead ring and oakum and repack

This brings the major question of what to use to seal the oakum:

1... pour hot lead and caulk
2... use lead wool and caulk (no heat packed cold?)
3... HARVEYS soil seal

Could someone clarify the advantages/disadvanteges of each

F I were faced with this the first thing I would do is (1)to take a set of inside and outside caulking irons and recaulk the joints. It's my bet that will solve your problem but I will answer your questions as you ask them.

(2)... remove lead ring and oakum and repack.
This would require a yarning and packing iron and put the hub in danger of being cracked when you removed the lead seal.
This brings the major question of what to use to seal the oakum:
(1)... pour hot lead and caulk
This requires a running rope, lead ladle, And a lead pot or torch to melt the lead in the ladle. It would also require experience in pouring a horizontal joint.
No task for a newbie.
(2)... use lead wool and caulk (no heat packed cold?)
(3)... HARVEYS soil seal
Both are acceptable.
My opinion is that when you recaulk the joints your problems will be over.
Good luck, Tom