Method and apparatus for installing a cementing float shoe on the bottom

Abstract

A method and apparatus are provided for effecting the replacement of a cementing float shoe on the bottom of a well casing. A casing extension sleeve defines an upwardly facing locating shoulder and a seal bore adjacent such shoulder. A new or replacement float shoe is run into the well casing on the end of a tubular workstring and seated on the locating shoulder with an external seal engaging the casing seal bore. A plurality of radially expandable slip elements are provided in the replacement unit at a position above the external seal and such slips are retained in a retracted position by a retaining sleeve. Connection of the replacement cementing shoe to the workstring is achieved through a coupling sleeve having a threaded engagement with the replacement shoe and also being connected to the retaining sleeve. After seating of the replacement shoe, initial rotation of the workstring in a first direction will produce a partial unthreading of the coupling sleeve and an axial displacement of the retaining sleeve, thus freeing the slips to radially expand into engagement with the casing wall. Upward movement of the workstring will effect the setting of the slips. Further rotation of the tubular workstring will effect the complete disengagement of the coupling sleeve, permitting the workstring, coupling sleeve and retaining sleeve to be withdrawn from the well with the replacement cementing float shoe unit sealingly secured in the bottom of the well casing.