Subsurface apparatus and method for using same in a hydrocarbon producing well to enable retrieval of a full opening subsurface safety valve mounted in the well tubing without disturbing the major portion of the well tubing located below the safety valve. Safety Valves The apparatus includes a subsurface tubing hanger below the safety valve from which the major portion of the well tubing is suspended and through which tubing the hydrocarbons flow to the surface. API Cast Steel ValvesDisposed above the safety valve is a tubing holddown apparatus and a controllable safety joint. The holddown apparatus provides a lower anchor for the portion of the tubing disposed above the tubing hanger and the stinger which is received in and seals with the tubing hanger.PLUG VALVES The safety joint is controlled to provide a full strength connection when installing the apparatus and a designed separation point when installed in order that damage to the portion of the tubing above the apparatus would not disturb the subsurface safety valve and thereby affect its ability to shut in the well in the event the wellhead is destroyed or damaged. The apparatus is installed in a single trip and thereby reducing the need for "spacing out" during installation.
In the event of damage or malfunction of the full opening safety valve, the valve may be retrieved with only the upper portion of the well tubing. A replacement valve may then be easily installed.

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