[iamn8]

Our 30's era home has the original 3 handle Gerber shower set from when a bathroom was first installed in the house back in the 50's. I've already had the diverter stem out once a few years ago. I took it with me to a big box store and was lucky to speak to an experienced old-timer who told me I'd never find a replacement, but gave me some advice on using off the shelf seals to get it back up and running.

The tub spout started leaking last month and shower pressure went off a cliff. I was able to get it useable by messing with the diverter handle, but not good enough. I pulled the stem out expecting that my replacement seals were due for replacement again, but they were actually OK.

What doesn't look OK is the nose of the stem. The back side of it that would seat against the valve body to close off the tub spout is missing a chunk. Looks just big enough to let the trickle of water past that's ruining shower pressure.

2 questions:

• could the more experienced group here direct me anywhere that might have these replacement parts?
• Knowing that's a long shot at best, thoughts on repairing the chipped piece?

I've got J-B Weld and West Systems epoxy at my disposal. I've never used either on a plumbing project though, thankfully.

 

[sestivers]

I would not expect too much luck but you can try a Habitat for Humanity ReStore or maybe one of those trendy stores that salvages materials from demolition sites and then sells it back to the public at obscene prices (some cities have ones with fair prices and huge inventory but there is unfortunately manufactured inflation for some vintage items).


In terms of repair, is it possible that someone could braze new brass onto that spot and then you can grind it to the correct shape?