Step 3 · Remove the Packing Nut and Valve Stem

This is the step most people slow down on. Take it one move at a time — there’s no rush, and you can rewind the clip as many times as you need.

With the handle removed, you will see a hexagonal nut called the packing nut. This nut holds the valve stem in place. Using an adjustable wrench or channel-lock pliers, grip the packing nut and turn it counter-clockwise to loosen and remove it. Once the packing nut is off, you can remove the valve stem. Some stems can be pulled straight out, while others may need to be unscrewed from the faucet body by turning them counter-clockwise.