How to Fix a Tub Spout Diverter
The tub spout diverter is the knob on the top of the tub spout that diverts water to the shower when pulled up. To fix the spout diverter, you need to replace the tub spout. Spout diverters do not wear out very often, but when they do, they will have a problem staying up or water will squirt out from the sides of it. Thankfully, new tub spouts are relatively inexpensive. Turn off the water supply to the tub before beginning this project. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Allen wrench
- Screwdriver
- Pipe joint compound
- New tub spout with diverter
Instructions
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Locate the screw that is on the underside of the tub spout. Unscrew the screw with an Allen wrench. Stick the end of a screwdriver into the spout and twist the spout counterclockwise to remove spouts that have no screw or that are hard to get off. Pull the tub spout off to reveal the spout nipple.
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Squeeze pipe joint compound over the threads of the spout nipple.
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Slide the open end of the new tub spout over the spout nipple. Secure the new spout by setting a screw into the hole in the underside of the spout. Tighten the screw with an Allen wrench.
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Turn the water supply back on to the tub. Test the spout diverter to make sure it directs water to the shower. Check the diverter for packaging tape if it does not direct water.
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Tips & Warnings
Lay a towel over the drain to stop pieces from falling down it.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
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Comments
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eHow - This, nor any other recommendation on this site, would get a thumbs up from me. After seeing that every single How To similar to this, as well as this one, stated that the only way to fix my problem was to replace the entire tub spout, I almost got discouraged. Then I decided to try some other things. First, I poured strong cleaner over the pull-up knob on mine, and worked it up and down, and then rinsed it. Then I sprayed it with WD-40, and again pulled up and down, and rinsed. It's working fine now, and was obviously corroded, and did NOT need replaced. Personal opinion is that this site apparantly is supporting the companies selling stuff like this, and is telling people they can't fix it, so they will have to replace it, just to make a needless sale...
