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brownieruf · Jun 5, 2008, 11:37 AM

I just replaced the shower cartridge (1225) for my Moen Shower valve- 1982 vintage. I couln't completely shut off the water before.

However, the water temperature fluctuates a great deal. I backflushed the valve with vinegar and CLR. Also, tried liquid wrench.

I tried to remove the pressure balancing spool to clean it, but I can't get it out. Should I heat the valve with a torch, heat gun?

Any suggestions?

Best refards,

John Brown

afaroo · Jun 5, 2008, 12:22 PM

I hopw the link below will help you

Installation Help / Animated Tutorial - Installing the Moen 1225 / 1200 Cartridge

ballengerb1 · Jun 5, 2008, 02:37 PM

Are you saying you cleaned a brand new cartridge because the temp kept changing? Is water being used eslewhere in the house like a washing machine or sprinkler system?

muddyfarm · Jun 5, 2008, 02:40 PM

You need to get a moen extraction tool and replace the piece. Go to a True Value Hardware store and buy or rent this. It's referred to as a moen tool. I work at a Just Ask rental / True Value store and that is what I tell customers as far as how to get it out. The replace the cartrage.

brownieruf · Jun 6, 2008, 03:55 PM

I wasn't very clear in my question. I replaced the cartridge, and it seems fine. However, the water temperature fluctuates- gets hot; then cools; gets hot; etc. I believe that the pressure balance spool needs to be removed and cleaned, but I can't remove it.

John

massplumber2008 · Jun 6, 2008, 04:13 PM

Hey brownie...

Look at this picture... click on link:

http://www.moen.com/shared/pdf/63130...=&id=482c75069

Or look at this picture... click on link:

http://www.moen.com/shared/pdf/TL319...&id=482c50ee11

For something like this spool you need to use a large flat head screwedriver (regular size won't do) or a dull wood chisel... set into slot of spool and then hit screwdriver a few times with a hammer... then, with pair of pliers (screwdriver in slot) try to twist the screwdriver so spool unscrews.

Part number is part #1423.. Hopefully can just clean/clear of sediment... if not, should be available FREE OF CHARGE by calling 1800BUYMOEN... make sure you let them know that you are the original owner of house (or voids warranty). They will ship the part within 10 business days including free shipping! If need it quicker, can ask for 2 day shipping which is about $12.00! Otherwise, check at the local plumbing supply house.

Try that first, get back to me with results and/or if I missed it entirely.

Let me know if this is something like what you are talking about... MARK

.

brownieruf · Jun 7, 2008, 03:28 PM

Mark-

Thanks. This is what I was trying to explain.

As you stated, the balancing spool is part number 1423 on the schematic.

I tried hitting the chisel to loosen the balancing spool and using a pliers with the chisel- still won't budge.

I also tried shutting off the shower valve and adding CLR through the shower connection to dissolve any sediment. I thoroughly flushed the system after the CLR.

Also tried applying liquid wrench around the outside of the balancing spool.

What I haven't tried id heating the spool with a heat gun or blow torch. Would heating the spool be OK?

Thanks,

John

afaroo · Jun 7, 2008, 03:38 PM

Hi John,

I don't think that heating will help you, lets wait for mark what he has to say, it shouldn't be that hard, I am sure you are turning it the right direction (counter clock wise)

massplumber2008 · Jun 7, 2008, 03:40 PM

Another idea to loosen this is to NICK the edge of the brass spool with a hammer and screwdriver so you set screwdriver in notch and then hit it to unscrew spool head counterclockwise.

Try this first... but most likely will need to replace the spool (be sure to use plumber's grease or similar to lubricate the O-Rings of new spool or when replacing the spool back into place).

I still want to bet that if you get a big enough screwdriver this will come out...maybe chisel kept skipping the slot of the spool?? If it did, go buy a real large screwdriver and try to loosen again. Large screwdriver almost always works...

Last resort I have removed this by biting down on outside spool with a VICEGRIP plier... but as last resort only as this almost destroyed spool!

Finally.. could then try the heat if none of above work... but don't overdo!

Let me know how it goes... MARK

brownieruf · Jun 7, 2008, 03:41 PM

Thanks-

I'll wait for Mark. I am turing counterclockwise.

John

brownieruf · Jun 8, 2008, 09:31 AM

Mark-

Thanks. I'll try you suggestions.

Best regards,

John

iamgrowler · Jun 8, 2008, 07:32 PM

Originally Posted by brownieruf

Any suggestions?

Umm...

Yeah...

A circa 1982 Moentrol valve wouldn't have a balancing spool.

If the Moentrol valve in question does indeed have a balancing spool, then it is a good deal newer than '82.

If the valve has integral stops, then turn both stops off and turn the slotted head of the spool counter-clockwise -- After the threads have stopped turning, open the integral stop on the cold side first, if water pressure doesn't loosen the spool and send it flying out into your chin or eye, then slowly turn on the other integral stop.

If it doesn't come out with the introduction of water pressure, then the problem is likely with the integral stops and not the balancing spool.

greggy · Aug 20, 2009, 11:08 PM