I need to change the washers in my bathroom sink. I have the taps off the top but can't see how I remove the decorative surrounds of the valve seat in order to remove the washer. I have photos etc and need to know what tools would be appropriate to do the job.

Photos can be posted using go advanced/manage attachments.

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Here is a pic...

Guesses:
1. Check for a hole for an allen screw
2. The top unscrews
3. The top, middle and bottom unscrew as a unit.

Best guess is #2.

Thanks for the reply. The bottom silver part and the white part both spin around but don't seem to have any thread as they don't get any looser or tighter. I can't get any leverage on the top silver part in order to unscrew it, is there a tool which would be useful for this?


You were right about #2 - I put some cloth around it and jammed a pair of pliars against it and managed to generate enough force to loosen it! Full of corrosion and gunk which is why it appeared frozen
Thanks for your help! Let me get the work done and I'll sort out a donation. :)

Here is the special tool: Amazon.com: Techni-Tool Soft Jaw Plier, Cushion Grip, 3/4"-2 1/2": Home Improvement (http://www.amazon.com/Techni-Tool-Soft-Plier-Cushion-Grip/dp/B00012X6R6)

Sears should have something.

But the rag works.

Either use some Anti-Seize compound or plumber's grease for the gummed up threads. Lubercate the washe, stems and screw threads with Silicon plumber's grease.

For future reference, when trying to remove something like this by hand that has a smooth surface, first wrap it with duct tape. That will greatly improve your grip.

To improve your grip even more, wrap it with double sided carpet tape. With the double sided carpet tape you won't have any problem with the griping part. The question then becomes are you strong enough to turn it.