These instructions apply to almost all two handle faucets used in kitchens, bathrooms and laundry room and bar sinks. There are three major type of these faucets; seat-washer stem, diaphragm, and washer less cartridge types. The seat-washer stem is the most common and can usually be identified by turning the handle. If it turns more than completely around, then you probably have this type, which is usually the least expensive to repair. The other types generally only turn about one quarter of the way.

Getting Started

The first step is to turn off the water to the faucet. There are usually shutoff valves under the sink. If not, you may need to shut off the valve at your water meter. The next step is to remove the handle. Most handles are held on by a screw through the top. Sometimes, it may be covered by a plastic or metal index button or cap. Some replacement handles may be held on by a set screw, usually on the side. Next, pull the handle straight off. If it's stuck, you  should use a handle puller, which will prevent damage to the valve stem, Cartridge, and handle. If you choose not to use the puller, gently pry or tap up on the handle to loosen. It's usually just hardened soap holding it on. Now, depending on what type of faucet you have, unscrew the locknut, bonnet or stem sleeve. After this part is removed, if you have the cartridge or diaphragm type, the part can simply be pulled out. On the seat-stem type, it may have come out with the stem sleeve. If not, it should screw out. You may have to turn it to the left or right, depending on the handle style and whether it's hot or cold. 

Now Let's Fix It 

Seat-Washer Stem Type 

I always recommend changing ALL of the soft parts while you have things apart. These washers, gaskets and "O" rings are inexpensive, and the brass stems last for years and years if you don't have to keep removing them, so it pays to fix it right the first time. The brass stem needs to be replaced if the top where the handle attaches (broach or spline) is broken or stripped, or if the stem just turns and never gets tight. If the bottom rim where the seat washer goes is broken, you can repair this at a low cost. 

To re-washer the stem, remove the bibb screw and pull the washer off. If the screw breaks, you will need to drill it out and re-tap the hole. Replace the seat washer with the correct size. You can usually read the size from the bottom of the old washer. NOTE: Almost every manufacturer supplies their stems with flat washers. Use of a beveled washer may cause the stem to wear out prematurely. Check the old washer for tears and nicks. If it's badly worn, you should replace the bibb seat. Look down at the seat (you may need to remove the water with a paper towel) and inspect for nicks or cracks. If there are any at all, you should replace it. You will see on the inside of the seat a 4 or 5 sided hole. Using the correct seat wrench, unscrew the seat and replace with the correct new one. Very few faucets do not have removable seats. If the hole is round, it may not be replaceable and you will need a seat dresser to repair it. Take your stem to your local hardware store to determine if your seat is not removable. Your faucet was designed to use specific parts that work together. Using an incorrect seat will change the way  that the stem works and can lead to premature wear. Some hardware stores carry many different seats and can fit almost every faucet out there. Please take your stem with you so the hardware store can look up the correct part.

While the stem is out, replace all packings, gaskets and "O" rings. Some hardware stores stock the correct packings, gaskets and "O" rings for your faucet. Take your stem in so they can look up the correct parts for you. Again, remember, it is important to use the correct parts. Replace the stem and stem sleeve. Do not over tighten, turn on the water an check for leaks.

Diaphragm Type

Repairs for this type are the same as above except there is no screw on the bottom. Just pull off the diaphragm and replace. Be sure to also replace the "O" rings on the stem.

Cartridge Type

This is known as a washer less faucet, but as you will soon see, most do use a type of washer. The most common type is made by Delta/Peerless, Valley, and some imported clones. Follow the above instructions, remove the cartridge and inspect the bottom for nicks and scratches. If nicked, it needs to be replaced. If not, look down into the hole that you took the cartridge from and at the bottom, you will see a black rubber piece. Pluck out this rubber seal and remove the spring below it also. Replace with the correct type. They all look about the same, so be sure to take in the cartridge to get the correct match. Most other types of cartridges cannot be rebuilt and must be replaced.

copyright© 2006, stemdoctor.com™ all rights reserved