Faucet Repair With A Wrench & Other Tools
Fixing a leaky faucet can sometimes be easily accomplished just by tightening its parts with a Wrench. If that still does not do the trick, you may need to replace the washers. This can be done using simple tools such as a 6” adjustable wrench by Pacoa, Grip 10” Linesman pliers, and a screwdriver.
Troubleshooting the Problem
First order of business is to shut off the main water valve underneath the sink with your wrench. Next, remove the faucet handle by loosening the center screw under the cap. Now, separate the handle and stem to expose the lower stem by loosening the packing nut. This should turn counter-clockwise for removal. Clean and remove any metal chips or fragments from the cavity’s interior which may be contributing to the leak.
Replacing Washers
Remove the old washer at the stem’s bottom and replace with a new washer. Washers can be either flat or grooved so make sure you replace with not only the right kind, but the exact size as the old one or your faucet will still leak. If you notice the screws are corroded or stripped, replace these also with new brass screws using your screwdriver.
Next, locate the faucet’s washer seat to see if it is damaged. If it is, you may need a special seat-dressing tool as indicated by the manufacturer. Using a flashlight, examine the faucet body looking for a hexagon or square-shaped hole at the core, replacing the washer seat if grooved for a screwdriver. If your washer seat has a hole in the middle without indentations, you will need to ‘dress’ it with a seat-dressing tool.
Putting It All Back Together
In most cases for simple leaks, tightening all connection points and replacing washers will be sufficient to stop the leak. Once these tasks have been performed, tighten the screw(s) and reassemble the faucet in reverse order, rotating the handle(s) to the correct spot. Now tighten the handle itself and the packing nut before reinstalling the decorative cap. Finally, oil the stem’s threads with a household lubricant such as Vaseline or grease, then turn the water back on underneath the sink and confirm the leaking has stopped.