Step-by-step instructions
Is anything more annoying than a leaky faucet? Maybe not; But it's also well within your power to fix it yourself with Danco. Read on, to find out how.
Tools and supplies required: Flat head screwdriver, Phillips head screwdriver, wrench, seat removal tool (optional)
1
First, determine the source of the leak. If water is leaking from underneath the handle onto the counter, the stem of whichever handle is leaking needs to be replaced.
If water is dripping from the faucet, turn off the hot water supply valve under the sink. If water is still dripping, you need to replace the cold stem (right handle). If the water stops dripping when you turned off the hot water valve, you need to replace the hot stem (left handle). Once you’ve determined the trouble stem, turn off the water supply.
2
Remove the Handle by lifting off the Index Cap with a flathead screwdriver. Next, Remove the handle (so the stem is visible) by loosening the Set Screw by the screw counter-clockwise. Set aside the Handle, Set Screw and Handle Button to reinstall at the end of the project.
3
If you have a plastic stem, unscrew the top cap and pop out the stem. If you have a brass stem, remove the stem by using a wrench and rotating it counter clockwise until it threads out entirely. Take a look at the Washer which is located on the lower end of the Stem. If the Washer is squeezed flat or has a groove worn in it, a Washer Kit coupled with a new Faucet Seat will likely solve your problem. When replacing the faucet seat, you can remove and replace the seat with an Allen wrench or a seat removal tool. Turn the seat counterclockwise to loosen, clockwise to tighten.
Once removed, you will need to take your stem to your local home improvement store and use the Perfect Match locator system from Danco or use the online Stem Finder. This system makes it easy to find your replacement.
4
Once you have purchased your new stem, you can install it into your faucet
- Install a brass stem by rotating clockwise until it threads entirely and tighten with a wrench.
- Install a plastic stem by placing the stem into the handle base and screw on the top cap.
5
Now is a great time to upgrade your faucet’s appearance with universal metal handles.
How to install the new universal handles
- Place the handle adapter over the stem and tighten
- Place the new handle on the adapter and insert the handle screw into the washer then into the handle and tighten.
- If your new handle has an index button, place it on the handle.
Finally, turn the water back on to ensure the leak is fixed.
Warren Gawve –
This replacement cartridge for Moen is a poor design or incorrectly built; rather than a 1/4 turn for full on-off, it has 1/8 turn in (2) directions and will not go fully on … the stop system is not compatible with Moen. Save your time and money and buy the genuine Moen ...Read More
Doug –
Unlike the original stem this valve stem is closed when turning fully counterclockwise AND clockwise. Very strange. For water to flow you would have to turn it to the half way point. This was installed on a 2 knob shower application.
Gunnar Berg –
Body is a perfect fit. Full-on/ shut off remains a mystery to me. Definitely not a good Moen substitute IMHO.
Kurt –
Same issue as Doug. Valve stem is closed when turning fully clockwise AND counter clockwise. Replaced two of these cartridges and they both work the same way… Doesn’t work the same as the original.
Greg Shackelford –
This was installed on a two handle moen tub set. The off position was to the left and right and on was in the center. The water flow was also compromised.
Dissatisfied –
Absolutely no instructions to be found about installation. Generally the website says to use silicone grease for some and not to use it for others. Nothing about this model
john –
Lowes gave me this to replace a Moen 1248 cartridge. In comparison to the original, it restricts the water flow (which I do NOT want), makes a whistling sound at certain points of turning on the water, and as the other review here mentions, the water flow turns back OFF again ...Read More
Frank S. –
Product worked fine once installed for the cold water supply faucet. Called Danco Customer Service and they were helpful. Had to order the stem puller for the hot from another company on Amazon since Danco does not carry.
Jerry potter –
Do not buy, this item is crap compared to Moen
Fits but cold stem turns in the wrong direction
TODD –
Purchased two of these at Home Depot on 11/17 and by 11/19 one was leaking and the other one the stop tab broke off and the handle would spin 360! I knew I should have purchased Moen parts.
Tony –
Junk. Bought two and neither shut off completely.
Tony –
It seems there is a new defective design. Slightly small so the fit is loose and water comes out the front of the valve. Shuts off when rotated clockwise, but the off position does not completely shut off the flow, which increases again at the extreme off position … this...Read More