Disassemble Faucet Handle and Cap — Disassemble the Faucet Handle and Nut
Part of project
How to Fix a Leaky Outdoor Faucet Packing Nut · Step 3 of 6
In this video
Using a Phillips head screwdriver, remove the screw that secures the faucet handle. Once the screw is out, lift the handle straight up to remove it from the faucet body. After the handle is removed, you will see a chrome cap or retaining nut. Unscrew this cap by turning it counter-clockwise. You may be able to do this by hand, but if it is tight, use a pair of tongue and groove pliers.
Goal: Access the faucet's internal cartridge
- If using pliers on the chrome cap, wrap the jaws with a cloth or electrical tape to prevent scratching the finish.
Used in this video
- Phillips Head Screwdriver (Tool Type: Screwdriver, Handle Type: Phillips) — Removing the screw that holds the faucet handle in place.
- Tongue and Groove Pliers (Tool Type: Pliers, Pliers_Type: Channel-Lock) · optional — Unscrewing the faucet cap if it is too tight to remove by hand.
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FAQs
What's the absolute first and most important step to take before attempting this repair?
You must turn off the main water supply to your house or the specific line feeding the outdoor faucet. Failing to do so can result in significant water damage and a much larger plumbing emergency. After turning off the supply, open the faucet to drain any remaining water from the line.
Do I really need the specific branded tools and materials listed, or can I use alternatives?
While the listed items are recommended for convenience, you generally only need an adjustable wrench and a screwdriver (a flathead is common for older spigots). For packing, standard faucet packing washers of the correct size or specialized graphite/Teflon packing cord can often substitute jute twine if the Danco washers aren't available. Always ensure your tools are the correct size to avoid stripping nuts.
I tried tightening the packing nut, but the leak is still there. What should I do next?
If tightening doesn't resolve the leak, it indicates that the internal packing material (whether it's a washer or twine) is worn out and needs replacement. Proceed to disassemble the faucet handle and packing nut, then carefully remove the old packing and install new material as detailed in the project steps. This usually provides a lasting fix.
How can I be certain the leak is coming specifically from the packing nut and not another part of the faucet?
Thoroughly dry the entire faucet body and surrounding area with a shop towel. Then, turn the water on to the faucet and carefully observe where the water first appears. If it's dripping or seeping directly from behind the handle, around the stem where the packing nut is located, then the packing nut is indeed the source of the leak.
TranscriptHide
Auto-generated transcript. May contain errors.
Disassemble Faucet Handle and Cap — Disassemble the Faucet Handle and Nut
Part of project
How to Fix a Leaky Outdoor Faucet Packing Nut · Step 3 of 6
In this video
Using a Phillips head screwdriver, remove the screw that secures the faucet handle. Once the screw is out, lift the handle straight up to remove it from the faucet body. After the handle is removed, you will see a chrome cap or retaining nut. Unscrew this cap by turning it counter-clockwise. You may be able to do this by hand, but if it is tight, use a pair of tongue and groove pliers.
Goal: Access the faucet's internal cartridge
- If using pliers on the chrome cap, wrap the jaws with a cloth or electrical tape to prevent scratching the finish.
Used in this video
- Phillips Head Screwdriver (Tool Type: Screwdriver, Handle Type: Phillips) — Removing the screw that holds the faucet handle in place.
- Tongue and Groove Pliers (Tool Type: Pliers, Pliers_Type: Channel-Lock) · optional — Unscrewing the faucet cap if it is too tight to remove by hand.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the absolute first and most important step to take before attempting this repair?
You must turn off the main water supply to your house or the specific line feeding the outdoor faucet. Failing to do so can result in significant water damage and a much larger plumbing emergency. After turning off the supply, open the faucet to drain any remaining water from the line.
Do I really need the specific branded tools and materials listed, or can I use alternatives?
While the listed items are recommended for convenience, you generally only need an adjustable wrench and a screwdriver (a flathead is common for older spigots). For packing, standard faucet packing washers of the correct size or specialized graphite/Teflon packing cord can often substitute jute twine if the Danco washers aren't available. Always ensure your tools are the correct size to avoid stripping nuts.
I tried tightening the packing nut, but the leak is still there. What should I do next?
If tightening doesn't resolve the leak, it indicates that the internal packing material (whether it's a washer or twine) is worn out and needs replacement. Proceed to disassemble the faucet handle and packing nut, then carefully remove the old packing and install new material as detailed in the project steps. This usually provides a lasting fix.
How can I be certain the leak is coming specifically from the packing nut and not another part of the faucet?
Thoroughly dry the entire faucet body and surrounding area with a shop towel. Then, turn the water on to the faucet and carefully observe where the water first appears. If it's dripping or seeping directly from behind the handle, around the stem where the packing nut is located, then the packing nut is indeed the source of the leak.
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Video Transcript
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