Check out some similar questions!

Vix261 · Jul 24, 2013, 02:26 PM

Hi,

The top of my bath tap (hot side of a mixer bath/shower tap) has come off when trying to turn the tap on. It detached from the main unit a small bit of screw is showing out of the bottom of the tap end but it won't reattach to the main unit. Please can someone help?

massplumber2008 · Jul 24, 2013, 02:35 PM

Hi Vix

I would need a picture to try to help here... and even then may still not be able to help!

Try uploading a picture... ;)

Mark

Vix261 · Jul 24, 2013, 03:04 PM

Hi Mark,

This link should take you to photos would really appreciate any help.

http://db.tt/RZfIyU8N

Thanks

afaroo · Jul 24, 2013, 04:01 PM

It looks like you have broken screw for the handle, remove the broken piece and install a new screw, good luck.

John

massplumber2008 · Jul 24, 2013, 04:30 PM

Hi Vix

You can try to purchase a screw extractor kit (or just the smallest extractor/drill bit combo. They sell) and see if you can extract the broken screw... available at most home improvement stores.

Vix261 · Jul 24, 2013, 04:31 PM

Thanks for having a look. Any ideas how I can get the broken bit out? I can't see it at all when I look in with a torch, I had initially thought it was the screw that had broke, but I guess I was hoping it'd be something simpler :(.

Vix261 · Jul 24, 2013, 04:31 PM

Oh you're a step ahead of me, thanks so much :)

massplumber2008 · Jul 24, 2013, 04:32 PM

Hope it works!

Vix261 · Jul 24, 2013, 04:34 PM

I'll let yous know, I'm going to attempt it tomorrow after a trip to the diy shop. Fingers crossed

massplumber2008 · Jul 24, 2013, 05:00 PM

You might be able to remove the tap there and access the stem assembly (part with broken screw in it). If you can do that and remove the stem assembly then you may be able to replace the stem assembly (see image) as another option should screw removal fail.

When going to the DIY shop, be sure to bring the broken screw part that you should have from the handle. If the smallest extractor and drill bit is too large for this and a replacement stem assembly can't be found then you may want to see if you can get a properly sized drill and tap (see image) and drill the old screw out and then retap new threads (get a new proper length brass screw, too).

afaroo · Jul 24, 2013, 11:04 PM

Hello Vix261,

Mark gave you excellent advice, to replace the stem, please remove the old stem take it with you to DIY shop get a new stem and a new screw, also check the slots in the old handle if they looks worn replace the handle too, goodluck.

John