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Replace the packing and washer — Remove the Old Valve Stems

Beginner

Part of project

Fix a Leaky Two-Handle Bathtub Faucet: A Step-by-Step Guide · Step 3 of 5

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In this video

Separate the valve stem and packing nut. The leak is usually caused by a worn-out packing. Remove the old packing and washer. Install the new packing and washer. Then, reassemble the faucet by following the steps in reverse order. Install the new washer onto the valve stem and secure it with the screw. Reattach the packing nut to the valve stem and tighten it with the adjustable wrench.

Goal: Stop the leak and ensure proper function of the faucet.

Used in this video

  • Adjustable wrenches (Adjustable_Wrench_Size: 10_inch) — Separating and tightening the packing nut.
  • Screwdriver (Screwdriver_Type: Phillips, Flathead) — Installing the washer screw.
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FAQs

Do I really need to turn off the main water supply, or is turning off the lines under the sink enough?

While turning off the hot and cold water lines directly to the bathtub faucet is often sufficient, it's a good safety practice to turn off the main water supply as well. This prevents accidental water flow if the individual shut-off valves are old or fail, minimizing the risk of floods during the repair process.

How do I ensure I purchase the correct replacement valve stems for my specific two-handle bathtub faucet?

The most reliable way is to remove your old valve stems and take them to the hardware store for an exact match. Pay close attention to the length, number of splines on the handle attachment, and the type of rubber washers or seals. Knowing your faucet's brand and model number can also help, but the old part is the best guide.

My faucet is still leaking after I've replaced the valve stems. What should I check next?

First, ensure all connections, especially the packing nuts and valve stems, are securely tightened, but not overtightened. Check that the rubber gaskets or O-rings on the new stems are properly seated and undamaged. Sometimes, a leak might originate from the faucet spout base rather than the handles, which could indicate a separate issue with the diverter or spout O-rings.

How long should a beginner expect this repair to take, and what's the typical cost involved?

For a beginner, this project typically takes 1 to 2 hours, assuming you have the correct replacement parts readily available. The cost is usually low, primarily for the replacement valve stems, which can range from $15 to $50 per pair depending on the brand and complexity.

Transcript
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it now the next thing you're going to need is an adjustable Rin orang okay the washer which is severely worn out now right over here is the packing the leak is caused from inside here the water is coming out because the packing is worn out in order to get into the area of the packing you need to separate these two parts this part and this part so these two parts need to be separated and then you need to replace the damaged packing okay so I'm going to separate the two parts now to separate these two parts you're going to need two adjustable wrenches part right over here is the packing okay now the packing which is this rubber part inside needs to be removed so you can take a screwdriver just pop it out many plumbing stores may not carry this so you have to find out the type of faucet that you have in order to get this particular part so it can be difficult to find and to install it just push it in like so I am going to replace this washer as you can see this washer is really worn out just press it firmly into place and insert the screw okay so the next thing you need to do is install this part here like so okay now I'm going to install the packing

Auto-generated transcript. May contain errors.