Leaking shower diverter valve
We have a three knob shower system. When the water runs into the tub a significant amount of water runs out of the central diverter valve (?correct term) knob. When this is turned water is diverted to the shower head.
How does one determine how to remove and replace the diverter assembly, or could it be something simpler ( O- ring, loose screw)
Thanks in advance
Paul McC
A picture tells a thousand words
Toms advice sounds very good. To see a diagram of a typical 3 handle shower valve go here http://www.plumbinglessons.com/sup/showervalve.htm
Regards: Darrel
Leaking shower diverter valve
Tom and Darrel-
Thanks so much for your advice. Unfortunately, turning the screw you mentioned did nothing to slow the flow of water from the central knob. The screw did turn several times and did become tighter. I did not turn it until it would turn no longer. Am apprehensive re. what. Was I just chicken and did not quite finish the job. Should I keep turning or if that were the solution, should I have seen some difference already.
Thanks for your time and wisdom
Paul McCauley
Leaking shower diverter valve
Tom-
I did tighten the inside nut. It was quite loose when I started and took several turns. It was still able to be tightened some, but I think I am a little apprehensive about tightening too much. I had the water running as I tightened. There was no appreciable difference in the leak. Am I just too timid? Can I do anything bad (leak inside the wall, etc.) if I just keep turning even though the resistance to turning has definitely increased considerably?
Thanks again for your time and wisdom.
Paul McC
Leaking shower diverter valve
Tom-
Thanks for your patience with me. I am trying to do this repair on an "extra" shower, so no rush. We also have two seriously ill close friends and are involved there also. Makes a leaking shower valve seem pretty trivial.
When I turn the knob to divert the flow of water from the spout to the shower, the entire stem wobbles considerably. A similar shower in another bath room does not do this. Does this indicate something else to you? Is this something I should get a plumber for? This could possibly be the problem.
If I am going to "remove the stem", how are the metal sleeves surrounding the stem attached to the stem or tile wall, and do they stay there and just the stem comes out? Does the stem assembly unscrew or just slip into place?
Thanks for your patience.
Paul