How to Replace a Price Pfister Valve Cartridge

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Things You'll Need

  • Screwdriver

  • Allen wrench

  • Replacement parts

  • Towels

Regardless of the age, type handle, or extra features on your Price Pfister single handle shower faucet, the disassembly process in basically the same.

Regardless of the age, type handle, or extra features on your Price Pfister single handle shower faucet, the disassembly process in basically the same. Some faucets have handles the rotate, pull up, or pull out. The handle on each type of faucets are held on by a single screw. Behind the handle there may be a dome cap, limit stop, or hub that must be removed to access the valve and cartridge. After the faucet is disassembled, the old valve cartridge will pull out in either one piece or as a separate stem and cartridge, depending on the faucet model.

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Step 1

Locate the main shut off valve and turn the water off. Turn on the faucet to discharge pressure and water from the lines. Lay a towel across the drain to avoid losing parts.

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Step 2

Use an Allen wrench to remove the screw turning counterclockwise. The screw is located either at the base or underneath the handle. If you faucet handle has a button covering the handle screw, pry it off with a small screwdriver, then use a screwdriver to remove the handle screw. Lift the handle off. Remove the dome cap (on certain models).

Step 3

Remove the hub screw with an Allen wrench or screwdriver (on certain models). Turn the stem extender counterclockwise and remove it. Remove the threaded retaining sleeve (on certain models) by turning it counterclockwise. Remove the wall flange (escutcheon).

Step 4

Use a screwdriver to remove four screws from the brass flange securing the valve stem. Extract the valve by pulling it straight out. The cartridge is directly behind the valve (on some models the valve and cartridge are one piece). Be ready with a towel as you remove the valve to keep escaping water from running inside the wall. Clean off any corrosion on the faucet or plumbing with a wire brush.

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Step 5

Install the new cartridge by pushing it into the faucet. Install the new valve assembly. Depending on the model faucet, turn the marking on the valve assembly in the correct direction (according to the part instructions) before inserting it into the faucet. Install the brass flange onto the valve assembly and tighten the four screws with a screwdriver.

Step 6

Reverse your steps to assemble the rest of the faucet. Uncover the drain by removing the towel. Turn the water supply on.

Tip

As you disassemble the faucet, take pictures with your digital camera or cell phone as a reminder of how the parts fit into place.

Warning

If the handle is difficult to remove, use a handle puller which is available and any hardware or home improvement store.

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