How to Replace a Bathtub Stem

Replace your bathtub stem if the faucet leaks.

The bathtub stem, also known as a valve stem, is the part of the faucet that controls the water supply to the spout. The faucet handle moves the valve stem to open or close a rubber washer mounted to the end of the valve. Because these are constantly exposed to water and moved quite a bit, they are prone to wear and tear, resulting in leaks and higher water bills.

Things You'll Need

• New bathtub stem
• Flat bladed screwdriver
• Phillips screwdriver
• Wrench
• Pipe thread compound

Instructions

1. Turn off the water supply for the bathtub. How you do this depends on your plumbing. Most newer homes will have a valve hidden behind a nearby access panel or in the tub surround. In older homes, you mayl have to shut off water for the entire house. Control is usually somewhere in your front yard, near the street. Rotate the knob counterclockwise to shut off the water.

2. Remove the screw cap on the faucet. Press the edge of a flat bladed screwdriver against the cap to pop it off. Remove the faucet screw with a Phillips screwdriver. Pull off the handle.

3. Remove the outer, decorative cover beneath the handle. This can either be held in place with a small screw, usually on the underside, or simply twisted into the valve opening. Rotate the cover counterclockwise to remove.

4. Remove the packing nut, the part of valve closest to the handle, with pliers to reveal the stem.

5. Remove the stem by turning the hexagonal part located either flush or just behind the wall with the pliers. Pull out the stem.

6. Lubricate the threads on the stem with pipe thread compound. Insert the new stem into the valve. Tighten with pliers. Place a few drops of silicon grease on the stem to lubricate.

7. Replace the packing nut. Tighten with the wrench. Replace the valve cover.

8. Slip the knob back on the stem. Tighten with the faucet screw. Press the screw cover in place.

Tips & Warnings

• If the faucet handle is hard to remove, try spraying with some vinegar and letting this soak to remove any built up calcium deposits.

• You can use plumber's tape instead of pipe compound in Step 6.

References

• Hammerzone: Replace a Bath Tub Faucet

Resources

• Bob Vila: Installing a Bathtub Faucet