How to Use a Faucet Shower Wrench
Shower socket wrenches come in a variety of sizes and types. Typically, for compression-style faucets, the five-piece kit will offer the correct-size wrench to fit most faucet lock-nuts. The faucet lock-nut secures the stem and must be removed so the stem can be extracted. (Single-lever faucets such as ball, disc, diaphragm, or cartridge faucets require an altogether different tool called a cartridge puller to remove the cartridge valve stem.) Using a shower socket wrench is a simple procedure that is not difficult for the technically challenged homeowner. Shower socket wrenches are available from a home improvement store and are moderately priced. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Flat-head screwdriver
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Channel-lock pliers
- Shower faucet wrench
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Instructions
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Turn off the main water supply to the house so water does not flow when the faucet is taken apart. The valves are typically located next to the water meter where the water pipes enter the house.
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Turn the faucet handles for the shower to the "On" position to drain the water lines.
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Remove the decorative cap on top of the handle by slipping a flat-head screwdriver under the cap and popping it off by using the screwdriver as a fulcrum.
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Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screw under the cover. Lift off the handle and screw off the cover that fits over the stem by turning it counterclockwise with a pair of channel-lock pliers whose gripping arms adjust to accommodate various widths.
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Select the appropriate-size socket wrench, available from a home improvement store in 2010 for less than $20, and push the socket over the stem and down onto the lock-nut at the base of the stem that is recessed in the wall.
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Turn the handle of the wrench in a counterclockwise direction to remove the lock-nut. Reassemble the faucet by following the disassembling process in reverse.
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Turn on the main water supply to the house, turn the shower faucet handles to the "On" position, and check for leaks from the faucet.
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Tips & Warnings
Assemble a workbox of the tools and materials needed to repair faucets and keep it available for quick repair projects.
Do not use force to remove parts. If they are stuck, use products such as Liquid Wrench or WD-40 to loosen them.
