Reinstall Stem and Install New Vacuum Breaker
At 4:52 in
Don’t Replace your Leaking Hose Bib! Rebuild It Instead
What happens here
Carefully insert the fully rebuilt stem assembly into the faucet body. Begin threading the packing nut counter-clockwise (since it has left-hand threads) by hand until it is snug. Ensure the plastic crush washer is properly seated. Next, use two pairs of Knipex Cobra pliers, one to hold the faucet body steady and the other to firmly tighten the packing nut. Apply adequate force to fully engage the crush washer and create a watertight seal. After that, remove the old vacuum breaker from the other port of the hose bib. The presenter shows the old vacuum breaker, which is corroded and damaged. Apply silicone grease to the O-ring of the new 34HA-BR Vacuum Breaker. Thread the new vacuum breaker into its port by hand first, then use two pairs of Knipex Cobra pliers (or a wrench and pliers) to tighten it, again using a backup wrench on the faucet body to prevent twisting the pipe inside the wall.
Goal: Securely reinstall the rebuilt stem assembly and replace the vacuum breaker
Tools and materials
- Knipex Cobra Pliers Knipex — Tightening the packing nut and vacuum breaker, holding the faucet body steady
- New Vacuum Breaker — To replace the old, damaged vacuum breaker
- Rebuilt Stem Assembly Woodford Brass — The fully reassembled internal components for reinstallation
- Silicone Grease — To lubricate the O-rings on the new vacuum breaker for a better seal