How to Fix a Shower Diverter Valve Assembly
Shower and tub combination faucets with three handles instead of two or one contain a diverter that's controlled by the center handle. By twisting the handle, you move a valve stem that changes the flow of water from the tub’s spout to the shower head. The process of fixing a leaking diverter valve is the same as fixing any other leaking compression faucet valve stem. You must take the diverter’s valve stem with you to the store to ensure you find a compatible replacement stem. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Philips screwdriver
- Adjustable wrench
- Bath socket wrench
- Seat wrench
- New seat
- Pipe dope
- New valve stem
- Plumber’s grease
Instructions
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1
Cut off the water flow to the faucet by closing the home's main water supply valve. Turn on another faucet’s cold and hot water supplies to drain any leftover water from the pipes.
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2
Pull out the cap in the middle of the diverter’s handle, then remove the screw that sits under the cap using a Phillips screwdriver. Pull the handle toward you to remove it from the faucet.
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3
Turn the retaining nut or the metal sleeve that sits over the valve stem counterclockwise with an adjustable wrench to unthread it from the faucet assembly. Turn the valve stem counterclockwise with a bath socket wrench, unthreading the valve stem from the faucet body.
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4
Insert a seat wrench into the faucet body and turn it until the wrench slots into the installed seat. Turn the seat wrench counterclockwise until the seat comes out of the faucet body.
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5
Press pipe dope into the threads on the new seat, then turn it clockwise into the faucet body with the seat wrench. Coat the threads and rubber washers on the valve stem with plumber’s grease, then turn the valve stem clockwise with the bath socket.
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6
Thread the metal sleeve and retaining nut back onto the faucet. Replace the handle and tighten the screw in the center, then press the cap piece back into place. Open the house’s main water valve slowly.
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