I have followed instructions for disassembling the faucet in order to replace the washer (to stop dripping). However, after removing the packing nut, I cannot seem to get the valve stem assembly to come out by turning clockwise (also tried the other direction). I tried grip lock pliers, but it still won't budge. Any ideas? Two photos attached.

Hi Jimbo:

You need to remove the chrome parts first... see image. Unscrew the chrome sleeve counterclockwise... you may need a pair of pliers or a strap wrench if you want the sleeve to remain undamaged.

Then it should be pretty easy to complete the rest... ;)

MARK

Such a simple and effective answer, Mark! Washer replaced. Leak dripping has stopped. Thank you!
Jimbo44

Mark is life saver, good job I can't rate you good luck.

Regards,
John

I have the same situation as the guy in the above picture. I was thinking about just getting a grinder and cutting the handles all off before I found this page. Anyhow, I have taken pliers to the chrome cover and squeezed and twisted it until its bent and it still won't budge. I have soaked it with WD-40 and beat it with a hammer until tiles came off behind it. I cannot get these things off at all. Do u think a strap plier will really make much of a difference? If so I'll invest in one. Otherwise I'm open to other suggestions before I break out the grinder. Thanks!

Some of those chrome sleeves pull off, some screw off.

A small strap wrench should remove it with out distorting. If you find the strap slips on the sleeve, wrap the sleeve with duct tape. Put one or two wraps around the sleeve, then twist the tape such that the sticky side is exposed and put another couple wraps. That gives you a sticky surface for the strap to grip.

Thanks for the suggestion. I will definitely give that a shot this weekend!