Log in

View Full Version : Stuck valve stem - yes, I did remove the Packing Nut...


cmendoza
Oct 4, 2013, 12:41 PM
I'm trying to repair a Bathtub faucet (1950s?)

I've removed everything (cap, screw, handle, escutcheon & packing nut) on both hot and cold handles, but cannot get them stems out.

I've turned them counter clockwise and no dice. I've just sprayed the inside (between stem and tubing?) with WD40, put the packing nuts back on and am letting them sit overnight to see if that helps.

Any thoughts? Special tools? Am I doing something wrong?
Any and all help greatly appreciated!

Thanks in advance,
Carlos

massplumber2008
Oct 5, 2013, 08:33 AM
Hi Carlos

You probably figured this out by now, but you probably also have to remove the GLAND body of the stem assembly. Here, there is a large nut-like assembly behind the packing nut (the gland body) and that also needs to be removed to access the stem assembly. If you can see the large gland then you can spin it off using pliers. If you can't see the gland then you may need to purchase a plumber's stem removal tool set (about $12.00) to remove the nut... ;)

Back to you...

Mark

cmendoza
Oct 5, 2013, 09:03 AM
Thank you Mark!

While I'm reasonably handy, it never occurred to me that their was such a thing as a "gland body" and none of my basic plumbing books showed a compression style faucet like the one you provided in your photo. Gland body is out and I'm in the process of replacing the washer.

Many thanks!

BTW, you'll find a small token of my appreciating in your Paypal account!

Thanks again,
Carlos

massplumber2008
Oct 5, 2013, 10:04 AM
Thank you for what I consider to be a very generous "token of appreciation" in my account. I appreciate that very much!