DIY Network

All Projects

TV Projects

    What Do You Want To Work On?

      What Activity Do You Want To Do?

        0

        Available Projects

        Get Results

        Repairing a Kitchen Faucet

        Leaky faucets are annoying, and replacing them is an unwanted expense. Save money by repairing the faucet yourself.

        Step 1: Turn Off the Water and Remove the Handle

        Turn off the water at the valves under the sink, and turn on the faucet to allow the water to drain. Make sure the drains are plugged to prevent small parts from falling in.

        Use an Allen wrench to loosen the setscrew on the faucet handle, then remove the handle. Be sure to line up the faucet parts in the order in which you remove them. This will help you remember the correct order for reassembly.

        Step 2: Remove the Bonnet, and Ball and Cam Assembly

        Use slip-joint pliers to remove the chrome bonnet. Wrap masking tape around the teeth of the pliers to avoid damaging the chrome.

        Remove the ball and cam assembly.

        Step 3: Remove the Springs

        Fish out the springs and packing pieces with needlenose pliers.

        Clean out any sediment or buildup from inside the faucet.

        Step 4: Remove the O-Rings and Diverter

        Grab the spout with both hands, and work it back and forth to loosen it. Then remove it from the faucet face. (This may require a little muscle.)

        Use the spanner to remove the O-rings, and use needlenose pliers to remove the diverter. Clean any sediment or buildup from the faucet face.

        Step 5: Reassemble the Components

        Press the new diverter into place, and install the new O-rings. Install the top O-ring first.

        Coat the O-rings with packing grease. (Packing grease withstands high water temperatures and protects the faucet components.)

        Step 6: Attach the Spout

        Press the spout back into place. Use both hands, and press firmly. (If you'd like to update the look of your faucet, consider replacing the spout. Check with the manufacturer to learn what styles are available.)

        Use the spanner and Allen wrench as a guide to slide the springs and packing pieces into place.

        Step 7: Finish the Installation

        Place the faucet ball into its slot.

        Install the cam and cam packing.

        Reinstall the chrome bonnet and handle.

        Turn on the water and check for leaks.

        Was this project helpful?

        Don't forget: Read comments and leave your own

        Advertisement

        Projects

        COMMENT ON THIS PROJECT

            

        Sign in

        All fields are required.

        E-mail Address:

        Password:

        Signing in

        Please enter your email address and we will send your password

        E-mail Address

        Your password has been sent and should arrive in your mailbox very soon.

        Not a member?

        Sign up with DIY Network to share tips with other do-it-yourselfers and comment and ask questions on projects.

        It's free and easy.