I am trying to replace the washers on my Kohler faucet but the stems are really stuck. I want to make sure I am turning the right way. Does anyone know if the threads are right or left handed? Thanks
Jul 05, 2012, 11:19 AM
joecaption
There going to be right hand threads. Looking down at the stem you would turn them counter clockwise.
joecaption
Jul 05, 2012, 01:10 PM
asmith4035
Thanks for your help, at least I know I am putting the pressure in the right direction. They are really stuck. I have used some liquid wrench and let that "soak". If that don't break it loose I will try and apply a little heat to see if I can break it loose.
Jul 05, 2012, 02:46 PM
Re-mdlr
Maybe you ought to post a picture or a model number before you go putting heat, or a pipe wrench with a cheater bar on it. You might be missing something and someone on here could help you.
Jul 05, 2012, 04:26 PM
asmith4035
Good idea. It is quite old, 20 years or more. I don't have a model number but will see if I can put a photo up as soon as I get a chance. Thank You,
Jul 05, 2012, 05:07 PM
joecaption
Not sure that's such a great idea, there's washers and seals in there that melt and make it even harder.
joecaption
Jul 06, 2012, 02:07 PM
swschrad
quick crank reaction: if these faucets are 20+ years old and they don't come apart, don't mess with 'em, replace them. takes less time, fewer trips to the store with the water off and people badgering you to hurry up hurry up hurry up, and it's an instant upgrade.
sig: if this is a new economy, how come they still want my old-fashioned money?
Jul 09, 2012, 04:56 PM
asmith4035
Thanks to everyone, It took a little muscle, liquid wrench, and knowledge that I was turning it the right direction and I was able to get the stems out. Case closed, and again, thanks to all for taking the time to respond. Regards
Jul 10, 2012, 12:41 AM
Nestor
Always open a traditional faucet before you start twisting on the bonnet nut or cartridge body.
That's because friction between the rubber washer and the seat will hold the stem in place, and turning the bonnet nut or cartridge body counter clockwise will want to screw the stem forward, or tighter against the seat.
The result is that the cartridge will just get harder and harder to turn.
I was concerned that what might be happening here, but luckily it wasn't.
ASmith: If you have metal handles, it's a real good idea to put some anti-seize compound on the end of the faucet stem before putting the handles back on. Otherwise, it'll be like fighting with a bear to get the handles off again 20 years from now.
Antiseize compound is just grease with some copper or nickle dust mixed into it to keep a thin film of grease between metal parts.This message has been edited. Last edited by: Nestor,