I am posting this follow-up to my earlier question in a separate thread because I hope MassPlumber2008 will see it.

It turns out that the reason that the hot-water handle won't turn "on" is because the stem (or one part of it anyway) was put back together backwards/upside down when it was repaired.

Normally, to turn on the hot water, you have to turn the handle upwards or clockwise. Now it only works by first installing the handle in a top-right position then pushing down on it counterclockwise to turn the hot water on.

Though this will cause some confusion at first, I am inclined to leave the repaired stem alone unless using it in this manner will damage it.

Thank you for your help and advice.

Take the handle off, turn the stem 180 degrees and put the handle on. See if that doesn't help.

See other post.

Brian, I suspect that this is a compression type stem, not a cartridge but don't know model number of faucet.

See other post.

Brian, I suspect that this is a compression type stem, not a cartridge but don't know model number of faucet.


Yes, from viewing pictures on Google, I would say that mine is a compression type stem, and not a cartridge. It is for an old stand-alone / claw-foot tub that has had a shower pipe added.

The faucet type is a Diverter Bath Cock (Watts model # 686 003). Unfortunately, no pictures are available on Watts's website. It looks like this one, by Barclay: Barclay Diverter Bathcock Spout: Plumbing & Fixtures : Walmart.com (http://www.walmart.com/ip/21609499?wmlspartner=wlpa&adid=22222222227015609485&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=&wl3=18163808710&wl4=&wl5=pla&veh=sem)

Stems are usually marked hot and cold because of their rotation. Sounds like they have 2 of the same stems. I have a customer with a 2 handled faucet and it is set up exactly as you noted. Yes, just learn to use it that way, frustrating as it may be.

Stems are usually marked hot and cold because of their rotation. Sounds like they have 2 of the same stems. I have a customer with a 2 handled faucet and it is set up exactly as you noted. Yes, just learn to use it that way, frustrating as it may be.

Yes, your colleague hkstroud in my other thread (double post) suggested the same thing. If two experts agree, I take their word for it.

Sounds like the plumbing supply shop owner decided to take a shortcut (he had a few customers waiting). Instead of unscrewing the stem end to replace the washer, which had cracked, he decided to change the stem while keeping the nut and handle attachment part the same - only he used the wrong stem.

So long as a cold-water stem can withstand hot-water temperatures, I am inclined like you to leave it alone - and learn to use it that way.

Thanks for your help.