Bath Faucet Cartridge Installation

sobro

I have a Delta single handle bath faucet for which I am trying to replace the cartridge. Unfortunately I don't have the model number handy, but I did find a replacement at Lowes. Note: It was not a Delta-brand replacement, but an identical model that was about $10 cheaper.

I have really been struggling while trying to install it. It is so tight that I'm afraid that I"m going to put a whole in the shower wall by pushing it too hard. Eventually, I put it in far enough to be able to attach the handle, etc., but now when I turn it on, it doesn't seem to want to allow any water to pass through to the spigot. I know that I have an adequate water supply (new plumbing has been run) and that there isn't a blockage in the manifold since when I leave the cartridge out, water flow freely through the opening that houses the cartridge. Occasionally, I can get water to flow through the spigot, but not always. It almost seems that it depends on the speed at which I turn the handle. I'm also certain that the front/back orientation is correct.

Does anybody have any ideas? It's getting to be a little frustrating.

Thanks!

oh'mike

Some pictures would sure help---

Are you sure that you removed the little rubber plug like washers from the back of the valve body--and replaced them with the new ones in the package?

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sobro

I agree - pics would help. If I can get some tonight, I will post.

As far as the washers are concerned. Are you talking about the small black washers that mount over the springs on the cartridge? Otherwise, I never saw any other washers in the box with the new cartridge. I am using the new washers, fyi.

Thanks!

sobro

Update:

It appears that I even more unfamiliar with this type of faucet then I first thought.

I initially had the hot water supply shut off behind the tub, but when I turned it on last night - BAM! Water started to flow like it should. Is this normal? Do all cartridge type faucets need both supply lines turned on in order to function.

I just figured that it would work as normal with only the cold water on...apparently I was mistaken.

Thoughts?

Thanks in advance!!

danpik

If it is a pressure balancing faucet that will happen. The water pressure needs to be even across both sides for them to function properly

Ed911

Great information...hmmm. Thanks for posting. It only stands to reason that the mixing valve has to work that way.

sobro

Great -thanks for the info!

I'm laughing about it now, but I said a few things while I was working on it that I wouldn't want my mother to hear.

Hey, it's just a few hours of my life, right?

oh'mike

You are learning plumbers language---the back three pages of the plumbers manual are are all colorful descriptive adjectives.

Hand me a !!@***##Q@ wrench--
Please tighten the &&%&$ nut.

Soon you will be getting fit for plumbers pants.

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