How To Remove A Broken Bathtub Faucet Stem

How to Remove a Broken Bathtub Faucet Stem

A broken bathtub faucet stem can be a major inconvenience, but it's a relatively simple problem to fix. With a few tools and a little know-how, you can have your faucet working again in no time.

Step 1: Gather your tools

You will need the following tools:

Adjustable wrench
Faucet stem puller
Replacement faucet stem
Plumber's putty

Step 2: Turn off the water supply

Before you start working on the faucet, you need to turn off the water supply. There should be two shut-off valves under the sink, one for the hot water and one for the cold water. Turn both valves clockwise to turn off the water.

Step 3: Remove the faucet handle

Once the water is turned off, you can remove the faucet handle. Most faucet handles are held in place by a screw or a cap. Use a screwdriver to remove the screw or cap, then pull the handle straight up to remove it.

Step 4: Remove the stem nut

Once the faucet handle is removed, you will see the stem nut. The stem nut is usually made of plastic or metal, and it is located at the base of the faucet stem. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the stem nut and remove it.

Step 5: Remove the stem

Once the stem nut is removed, you can remove the stem. The stem is a long, cylindrical piece that is located inside the faucet body. To remove the stem, use a faucet stem puller. A faucet stem puller is a small, two-pronged tool that is designed to fit around the stem. Insert the prongs of the puller into the holes in the stem, then turn the puller counterclockwise to remove the stem.

Step 6: Install the replacement stem

Once the broken stem is removed, you can install the replacement stem. To install the replacement stem, simply insert the stem into the faucet body and tighten the stem nut.

Step 7: Apply plumber's putty

Once the stem is installed, you need to apply plumber's putty around the base of the faucet stem. Plumber's putty is a sticky, pliable material that helps to seal the faucet and prevent leaks. To apply plumber's putty, simply roll it into a rope and then wrap it around the base of the faucet stem.

Step 8: Reinstall the faucet handle

Once the plumber's putty is applied, you can reinstall the faucet handle. To reinstall the faucet handle, simply align the handle with the stem and then push it down until it clicks into place.

Step 9: Turn on the water supply

Once the faucet handle is reinstalled, you can turn on the water supply. To turn on the water supply, simply turn the shut-off valves under the sink counterclockwise.