Flow and Temp Valves??

Rhumba555 · 09-11-2011, 11:53 PM

Hello all, another question!

Throughout our new house (built in 1999) the bath and kitchen fixtures are Kohler (I believe) and they all match, from the bath faucets to the kitchen and shower sets. They all look like "Aladdin's Lamp" (chrome and gold, fugly in my opinion). Anyway...

In the showers, there are 2 valves marked FLOW and TEMP. These valves are getting old and squeaky and I would like to replace them. I have never seen this type of shower set before. The temp valve does nothing by itself until the FLOW valve is opened and I am confused how this system works.

I would like to replace the whole set with a standard Hot and Cold set but I don't know how the plumbing is done behind the wall. Or should I just replace the cartridges? (if there are any) and be done with it?

Also, I tried to find new aerators for these "Aladdin's Lamp" faucets in the bathrooms to no avail. (the aerators fell apart). They apparently have a 3/4-27 Female thread in the faucet outlet and I can't seem to find an aerator that has a 3/4-27 male thread. Nor can I locate an adaptor!

Can someone please shed some light on these issues for me? Thanks!

**oh'mike** · 09-12-2011, 06:34 AM

I suggest that you call Kohler their customer service line has always been helpful.

Best to fix the old mixer----changing a mixer is a major job that often includes replacing tile work.

Kohler may send you free parts---Mike----

Just Bill · 09-12-2011, 07:26 AM

Not familiar with that model, but it seems perfectly clear to me....'flow' is for the volume of water, 'temp' is for the temperature. Most often in new faucets, these functions a controlled by a single handle.

And I doubt the finish is gold, probably brass, but it could be gold.

Rhumba555 · 09-12-2011, 04:04 PM

Bt gold I meant a gold finish. I doubt as well it is real gold.

I was more curious about whether these type of valves are plumbed differently behind the wall or not.

No matter, the family likes them so I will try to just replace the cartridges.

I will try to keep you all posted as to my progress.