Changing kitchen tap washer

[tellytv]

Trying to change the washer on my hot tap as it’s dripping, I’ve unscrewed the handle but still can’t access the nut?

 

[muggles]

You need to unscrew the shroud

 

[tellytv]

Would I need a ratchet to unscrew inside the shroud ?

 

[just pumps]

Would I need a ratchet to unscrew inside the shroud ?

Unscrew the shroud,,The chrome outer bit first.

 

[muggles]

Bit of WD40 down the hole and a firm grip usually does it

 

[CBW]

No. The shroud is removed by unscrewing the shroud, bearing in mind to protect the chrome finish.

 

[tellytv]

So literally just need to twist it?

 

[just pumps]

Trying to change the washer on my hot tap as it’s dripping, I’ve unscrewed the handle but still can’t access the nut?

If it was a quarter turn on/off handle then there is no washer.

 

[muggles]

So literally just need to twist it?

Yep

 

[Harry Bloomfield]

So literally just need to twist it?

If it will not budge, try tapping it on the side with something soft, like a bit of timber, to free it. More leverage to grip it can be had by folding some cord in two, then wrapping it round the item, ending up with the closed end loop of cord on top in the direction you want to turn it - then just put a lever through through the loop. If the open end of the cord is underneath, it will grip tight as the cord is tightened.

 

[Elkato531]

Usually its just a question of getting a good grip to unscrew the shroud. Pump pliers are likely to damage the chrome so you could try wrapping several turns of insulating tape around the shroud to protect it.
My first thing to try though would be wrapping a few rubber bands round the shroud and trying by hand. The extra friction given by the rubber bands usually does the trick.

 

[JohnD]

wearring a dry rubber glove (the housewife type) improves your grip

a rubber strap wrench is ideal, and not expensive. Often listed as a "boa"

On ebay and places like halfords.

In a hurry, you can get elastic strapping from a chemist or some supermarts.

not sure of the correct name, but it is like fabric elastoplast, in a long strip that you can cut to length. put a turn tightly on the shroud, the adhesive will hold it, and the fabric will protect the shroud from scratches. you can use footprints or something. If you use a mole, you may dent the shroud as you lock it on.