I have a broken shower diverter. I've tried to remove it with the 5pc stem tool set available, but the smallest of the wrenches does not fit all the way in and does not grab the nut holding the diverter which is inside a this holow pipe sticking out and threaded in the outside.
Here is a pic so you have an idea of what I'm talking about.
Any suggestions?
Thanks

If the regular plumber's socket set doesn't work than you have to use auto mechanic's deep socket wrench.

You will need to cut the stem to fit the socket and buy a new stem, see the image below, Thanks.

John

Thanks for the advice. I'll talk to my husband about cutting the stem and using a deep socket wrench to unscrew the nut deep inside. And by the way, would you know why I have this pipe sticking out? Is it common in showers, cause I haven't seen it in any of the youtube's videos about fixing shower diverters.


Hi again.. Do I need to remove this water spout which is threaded near the outlet in order to change the diverter? Or just by cutting the stem will do the trick? The reason I'm asking this is that taking the water spout that connects to the pipe will involve removing the rubber plate which is pretty tight and glued to the tile. Originally the shower valve was not working properly, it was very tight and most of the water was coming from the tub faucet.
Thanks again,

Hello Newbee,

Before cutting the stem try as Milo says use a deep socket and remove the stem, once the stem is removed take it with you to a plumbing supply to get new washers or O rings if require and apply some plumbing grease for lubricating the washer and O ring, I don’t thing you need to do any thing with that pipe, good luck.

John

Tomorrow I'll try to get an extra deep socket and get the washers/ O rings and lubricating grease for plumbing.
Thank you so much