How to Repair a Moen Faucet That Drips

Years ago, stopping a faucet from dripping was a simple matter of replacing a worn out washer. These days, you almost always have to replace the entire faucet stem. If you have a Moen brand faucet, replacing it isn't too difficult. You just need the right tools and a little know-how.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Channellock pliers or crescent wrench
• Philips screwdriver
• Flathead screwdriver
• Small flathead screwdriver
• Replacement cartridge(s)

1. 
    

   Turn off the faucet's control valves.

2. 
    

   Remove the cap on the faucet handle. Remove the faucet handle with your Philips screwdriver.

3. 
    

   Remove the brass keeper cap.

4. 
    

   Remove the old stem. By design, it's wedged in tight and won't come out easily. Pry it up with your small screwdrivers, then switch to a regular screwdriver, followed by pliers.

5. 
    

   Install a new stem. Note that it is keyed so it will only go in one way.

6. 
    

   Replace the brass keeper cap. Replace the faucet handle and cap.

7. 
    

   Reopen the faucet's control valves. If there is still a drip, replace the other stem. If there is still a drip after that, you probably need a new faucet assembly.

Tips & Warnings

• Leaks usually develop on the hot water side first--which is often the only stem you'll have to replace. If the brass keeper piece is stuck in place, apply a small amount of WD-40 or other lubricant. If you don't have small screwdrivers, try using some other rigid metal implement with a narrow edge such as a steak knife. Put all caps, screws and handles that you remove in a safe place so you won't lose them.

[lmaden]

on 10/30/2009 I completed the above instructions but couldn't find a Moen cartridge so I put everything back the way it was and turned on the water valves, turned the faucet and no water comes out, what could I have messed up as everything seems pretty easy?