Two questions resulting from a leaking tap...

[geo1903]

Sorry if this is very basic but... our hot tap in the bathroom is leaking and two issues have come to light. Its an old style tap, probably 30-40 years plus and after removing the screw that holds down the tap top (the cross bit that you turn to start stop the water) appears seized onto the spindle part. Any tips on how to remove it? And is there a chance it might be so solidly stuck that an actual complete tap replacement will be needed?

(just trying to make sure I have replacement stuff on hand once I get involved in removing the old bits)

Cheers for any replies.

 

[kevplumb]

open the tap and insert an adjustable set to the spindle sixe between the cross and the shroud tou might need a bit of packing close tap and it should lift off

 

[TicklyT]

Once the water is turned off elsewhere, sometimes it is possible to unscrew the decorative cover and lift it enouigh when the tap is open to get a spanner on the flats of the bonnet (the bit under the cover) without removing the handle.

Otherwise I would try to find a block of scrap wood and cut a slot in it, or use adjustable spanner or whatever to fit over the exposed shaft below the handle when the tap is open. Close the tap so the block is trapped and jacks the handle off the tap as you turn it.

The innards of some designs of tap are held together with a circlip. Too much abuse can pop the clip out of it's groove, then the thing won't work at all afterwards. Then a 'tap reviver kit' (new set of tap innards ) may do the necessary.