I am attempting to replace all polished brass fixtures in my bath with polished chrome (see photos here (http://s1164.photobucket.com/user/compfu/library/Plumbing)). I do NOT want to replace the valve assembly, as the quote for the work went well into the many hundreds of dollars and did not include costs for repairing the tile that needs to be removed to access it.

The manufacturer is (most likely) Moen, based on the identifying number "91113" on the handle. According to Moen, the valve for the faucet itself is less than 1-3/8 inches (it is exactly 1-inch) and is not compatible with any of their current inventory.

I am willing to use another manufacturer's trim kit, if such a thing exists that would fit. I have even considered having the current faucet and flanges chrome plated, but that could take up to 6-8 weeks. Time is a critical factor for me. Any recommended replacements would be appreciated!

This is an old style Moen roman tub faucet. You will have hard time getting new trim for it. There are some off-brand companies that may still make trim for those. I suggest you take the trim and first try Home Depot, if unsuccessful there, go to your local Mom 'n' Pop's store and talk to the guy in overalls.

If you don't find new trim that would fit and you really want to keep that style trim, your best bet will be to have it chrome plated.

Usually, there is ( or should be) an access door. That door is on faucet side and behind the wall, in another room. Look if you can locate that door. It is 14" x 14" square door, positioned low by the baseboard, and usually painted over. If there, then you could have that old faucet replaced. It is not such a big deal to replace it since it is just a simple switch-over.

Back to you

Milo

I have to agree you can buy and replace the whole shabang to your choice, very easily if you have access, even if you create your own access. ​What's on the other side of that wall that your fixtures are on?

Thanks, all, for your responses! Unfortunately, access would be a costly proposition when you include the cost of demolition, plumbing costs, and re-tiling. I uploaded a photo to clarify.

Ideally, a 1/2-inch extension for the faucet would seem to solve the problem efficiently and inexpensively.

Thanks!

WOW, that picture changes your thinking a bit! I see this as no different than installing an access panel on a jaccuzzi. Review this link and see the similarities.

Magnetic Access Panels in Tile Installations (http://floorelf.com/magnetic-access-panel-in-tile-installations),

http://floorelf.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/CIMG5387-225x300.jpg

http://floorelf.com/wp-content/themes/thesis_185/custom/rotator/CIMG4431.jpg

From what I have gathered though these are made by companies that specialize in special access doors, and maybe there is one near you, or your contractor can look into it for you. Doesn't appear to be that complicated, nor expensive, and gives you future options for any contingency. You can change your fixtures whenever your wife tells you to!

Ask them, and see what they say. I know this started as a simple question about faucets and grew to .....a project.

http://tile-eze.com/access-panels

Just an idea though.

I agree with Milo that This is an old style Moen roman tub faucet, I also suggest to call Moen at 800-289-6636 they may have a solution for it, good luck.

John

Question: is this bathroom on first floor or second / third floor ? Also, if on first floor, is it on concrete slab or on raised foundation ?

If it was in my house, and i "really" wanted to replace that faucet - I would cut out one of those tiles to gain access, than replaced it with similar tile or cut a hole in the tile in given size and snapped in plastic access door.


Back to you

Milo

Question: is this bathroom on first floor or second / third floor ? Also, if on first floor, is it on concrete slab or on raised foundation ?

If it was in my house, and i "really" wanted to replace that faucet - I would cut out one of those tiles to gain access, than replaced it with similar tile or cut a hole in the tile in given size and snapped in plastic access door.


Back to you

Milo

Thanks for everyone's helpful hints! I know now what I need to do.

Let us know how you did.

Milo

I went to Lowe's yesterday and they do have lots of parts for old faucets. I think the flange I have seen there ( see enclosed photo ) is the one you are looking for.

Milo

All;

I'm going with chrome plating. It's funny that almost EVERYONE focused on creating an access panel when I thought I made the issue clear. I do NOT want to pay $400.00 plus the cost of repairing the tile/having a pretty access door made/leaving a big hole in my tub. Any answer that does not include a valve extension or compatible hardware is the wrong answer. I'm sure that you are all well-meaning, but I'm afraid that you focused on the wrong problem. Chrome plating will cost me under $150.00 - less than the cost of new trim hardware. Thank you all for your answers!

Well it is good for you then you know how to resolve your issue, every one is trying to help you, if you can find the chrome plating parts that is a good way to go, that's why I asked you to contact Moen to help you with the correct parts, good luck.

John

I agree with Afaroo...

Everybody suggested the service door option because it is the right approach to your situation. If you don't have one - then you should have one. You may even need service door to remove your tub spout for plating purposes, otherwise you won't be able to unscrew it. But day will come when that option will have to be exercised whether you like it or not.

Not sure who gave you such high prices, but access door is under $20.00 and it takes 1/2 hour to remove one tile and install the door. As far as trim goes, the replacement trim from Lowe's is $4.99 for each escutcheon.

But in the end, it is your choice and I am glad you selected plating, which you believe is the way of dealing with your situation. All our Experts always try to offer the best possible solution to presented problem - not to mention, they all offer their advice free of charge

Fee free to stop by if any other question arises. Good luck with your project !

Milo