I have an old type American Standard sinkset-2 knobs(not handles) that leak. Is this a relatively easy fix? Just new washers? I have popped off the hot and cold AS top caps? Could someone tell me the procedure that I need to follow to fix this without making a mess?

Thanks for your replies and help.

 

There should be screws under the caps. Remove the screws and remove the knobs. This may be easier said than done. Calcium deposits build up on the stem shaft. May have to wiggle and pry to remove. There should be a nut under the knob. Unscrew it until it is off the threads that hold it. Slip the knob back on and turn. The whole stem should come out. The washer will be held on the bottom of the stem with a screw. Remove the screw (or take the whole assembly with you) and buy new washers to fit. While it is apart, look down in the hole and see if the seating surface is scored. You can also buy a reseating tool relatively cheap. I don't advise buying a multi-pack of washers as most, you'll never use or will lose them. Replace the washer and reverse the procedure to re-install. Good luck on your project.

 

majakdragon

THANK YOU FOR YOUR QUICK REPLY.

Several questions.

I should shut the supply lines off under the sink?

Where is best place to get these washers-will the big box stores like HD have them?

Thanks again.

 

You must shut-off the valves under the sink. Sorry I forgot something as important as that. Big box, hardwares and plumbing supply stores will all have the washers.

 

majakdragon

I am having difficulty removing knob. Knob is a one piece that also includes a sleeve that turns on another sleeve that is connected to base of sinkset. I hope this is clear. Any ideas or suggestions? Do I require any special tools?

thx

 

Not familiar with the sleeves. May just be decorative trim type. As stated in my first post, these are not removed often and they get very difficult to remove. You may have to do a little prying with a screwdriver. Make sure you protect any surfaces that could get marred or scratched. Pry evenly on each side to prevent bending something. Go slow.

 

majakdragon

OK-you were correct-the knob was just stuck and with a little gentle prodding came off.

After removing large washer, I just lifted stem asbly and it easily came out.

Now another question. The rubber washer is on the bottom of the stem asbly-correct? Mine is a one piece and actually has what I would describe as a little rubber hat connected as well. Correct? There is just one washer per stem asbly?

Well, one of the washer's hat I suppose was already broken off and perhaps this was contributing to leak. This broken piece is down in the supply hole .
Question, how do I get it out or is it necessary to remove?

Sorry for all the questions-too deep in this project now to stop.

thx

 

The piece has to come out or the new washer will not seal. You could try GENTLY turning on the supply valve and see if it flows out with the water. Have some rags ready. Most faucets have only one washer. Take the whole assembly with you to buy the new washer. That way you will know you got the right thing.

 

majakdragon

First of all, a very tardy "thank you" for helping me and holding my hand on this DIY project.

The repair is complete and the leak has stopped. However, I have one issue. One of the stem asblys seems to be very tight as far as opening and closing it making the turn of the knob difficult. I have reinstalled this unit several times with the same result. Any ideas or suggestions or after a break-in period will this improve?

Thx again.

 

You may have overtightened the packing nut. It has to be just tight enough to stop it from leaking when the faucet is turned on. Try adjusting the nut with the cover off until it turns easily but does not leak from the nut.
We are always here to help with your problems. Most of us work at our respective trades and it may take a few hours to get an answer, but you will get one or more. Glad I could be of assistance.