Replacing Tap - Screw Slot Damaged

[karl50uk]

I have this leaking tap.

When I went to replace the seat, the screwdriver has perished the slot rendering it useless.

Any ideas?

I have tried hammering it in further, but this does not seem to be working and I do not want to damage the tap any further.

 

[JohnD]

This is a brass screw? If it has a slotted head, you can sometimes cut a new slot with a Dremel, but if you don't already own one, and do not have impact drivers, it will be less trouble and probably cheaper to buy a new tap . Sounds like the old one wouild benefit from replacing anyway.

p.s. was the damage because you did not have exactly the right size of screwdriver?

 

[karl50uk]

Yes it is a brass screw..... and was probably caused by using the wrong screwdriver (Mr. Bodge it).

I could do without buying a new tap as we are selling the house. Although I do not particuarly want to fix it as a temporary measure until sold, I do have some conscience.

 

[JohnD]

You can get left-handed drill extractors, but I really think you would do better to buy a new tap, or leave the old one dripping.

there is a faint chance that if you buy a set of chrome-vanadium screwdrivers (not very expensive now, and will give years of service) and use a well-shaped driver of exactly the right size, it will work.