Question

The stem won't come out. How can I get it out?

Community Answer

You can try putting the handle back on, tighten the set screw and pull up on it; or use lubricating oil to soften up rust buildup between stem and stem housing and then pull it up. You may have to get aggressive with channel locks and pull the stem out; however, that may damage the handle stem. Lastly, before you put a new stem in, wipe inside the stem valve to remove any rust or slime, then open the shut off valve to allow water to just bubble over the top for 10 seconds. This removes debris that will get up inside your faucet line and seriously reduce your water flow.