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True Value
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Reassemble the Faucet — Install the New Faucet Valve

Beginner3 hours

Part of project

How to Replace a Bathtub Faucet Valve: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide · Step 4 of 5

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In this video

Reinstall the components in the reverse order of removal. Place the large escutcheon plate back against the wall. Screw the trim sleeve back on until it is hand-tight. Slide the faucet handle back onto the valve stem, ensuring it aligns correctly. Tighten the set screw with the Allen key to secure the handle in place.

Goal: Shower Faucet Installation (Single Handle)

Used in this video

  • Allen Wrench (Tool Type: Allen Wrench, Allen Wrench/Hex Key Size: 3/32) — Tightening the set screw on the handle.
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This Old House

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FAQs

What specific type of replacement valve should I buy for my bathtub faucet, and are the listed tools all I'll need?

You must purchase a replacement valve that is compatible with your specific bathtub faucet brand and model. Take a photo of your existing valve or faucet to a plumbing supply store for an exact match. The listed tools (adjustable wrenches, screwdriver) are essential, but also have penetrating oil and a utility knife on hand for stubborn parts.

What's the most critical safety step, and how can I avoid common beginner mistakes like leaks after installation?

The most critical safety step is ensuring both hot and cold water supplies are completely shut off before starting, then double-checking by trying to turn the faucet on. To avoid leaks, ensure the new valve is properly seated and the retaining nut is snug, but do not overtighten. Test for leaks slowly as you turn the water back on, inspecting carefully.

The project is rated 'beginner' but estimated at 3 hours. What makes it take that long, and what if screws or nuts are corroded?

While the steps are straightforward for a beginner, unexpected issues like corroded screws or a seized retaining nut can significantly extend the time. Using penetrating oil and letting it sit for 15-30 minutes can help loosen stubborn parts. Patience and having the right-sized adjustable wrench are key to success.

I'm struggling to remove the old valve even with a wrench and penetrating oil. Are there any alternative methods or tools I should try?

If the retaining nut or valve is extremely stubborn, you might need a specialized valve puller tool, which can often be rented or purchased at a hardware store. Ensure you're turning the nut counter-clockwise. If the new valve doesn't fit, double-check its compatibility with your faucet model, as slight variations can prevent proper seating.

Transcript
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So I have to say it took a lot of back and forth maybe almost a week or maybe two weeks of back and forth emailing with price vista in order to identify the exact model that we have here. I always wish that manufacturers would just kind of use laser etch the model number. I think this was like the marquee version but laser etch at either here or on the back of the trim plate so that you can actually quickly identify it. But instead what they wanted is a lot of detailed pictures of these units. And in the end they did come through and were able to identify the model but it could have been a much shorter process. But they did come through and it didn't cost anything to have the replacement parts sent.

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