Repairing A Compression Faucet
Turn off the water supply and unscrew the stem assembly. Pry off the handle cap. Remove the handle screw with a screwdriver. Lift it up and off the handle. To remove corroded handles, you may hve to use a handle puller. Unscrew the packing nut from the faucet body with water-pump pliers.
Take off the washer. Use a screwdriver to remove the bib screw that that holds the washer in place. If the screw is stuck, tap on it gently for about 30 seconds to loosen the rust. Remove the screw, pry out the worn washer, and discard it. While the Valve is out, check the valve seat by touch. If you feel any roughness, replace it.
Remove the stem from the retaining nut. Inspect the threads for damage and replace the stem if necessary.
Peel off the O-ring, don't cut or break. Slip the O-ring from its groove and peel it from the housing. It isimportant to keep the ring whole so you can find a exact replacement at the store. Use the tip of a screwdriver to help release it if necessary. If you can not peel it off, get an O-ring remover to help you with the job.
