I'm sure you've gotten many responses like this (I haven't read the posts), but THANK YOU SOOOO MUCH!!! I'm good at taking things apart (and usually at putting them back together), but my locking nut was so badly frozen in place that I had become convinced that it was an integral part, and I would have to remove the faucet from the sink in order to get at the cartridge. Your video showed me the way, and now the faucet is not only not leaking, but works far better than it has for many years!
Outstanding video quality, narration and information. My Moen 7100 kitchen faucet was squirting water out the side of the faucet base when running water. I replaced the cartridge with a brass one - nice smooth action, but same problem. I viewed this video (Parts 1 and 2), learned how/why to remove the faucet and replace O-rings. Put it all back together and now it's all water-tight and like-new. Thanks so much for sharing your expertise!
Tedjar, you are the man! I was dreading repairing my leaking Moen faucet (plastic cartridge was stuck so I didn't want to break anything and have to buy a new faucet) and you showed how to do it so easily. Breaking the old stem loose, using plenty of heat-proof plumber's grease and cleaning crucial areas were the keys to my repair. All your advice and comments were spot on. Now my repaired faucet feels and works better than ever! Kudos to you and Thank You very much!
This video is spot on for me.I have that exact type of kitchen faucet and it wouldn't function without using extra force,so I followed the repair video here and bought the exact type of replacement cartridge and O-rings and plumbers' grease and replaced the cartridge and O-rings.Now the faucet works like new! Yay!This vid has way better instructions than what comes with the new cartridge too,although I followed both ways.And I was considering replacing the whole faucet assembly and it would have been a real headache,but now I don't have to do that.Thanks much tedjar.You do rule!
Same exact Moen faucet here too. (M7300) My problem was with the base at the spout/handle. At first I thought it might be just the outer O-rings so I bought those and replaced. The spout had some kind of rubber inside the spout base at the top O-ring area and it was coming apart. So I removed the material and cleaned it to give me a good seat between the spout base and the outer O-rings. That didn't work so I went ahead and bought the 1200 cartridge. Put it all back together and THAT stopped the leak. Would not have been very easy without this excellent how-to video. Very much appreciate your time. It made the job much easier. THANKS!!!
Going by the directions I coud NOT remove the old stem. After your video advice I was able to do the job. You are doing a great public service. Thank you! - Joe
This is exactly how a how-to video should be shot. Exactly to the point, with no side chatter talking about stuff that isn't relevant. This is one of the best how-to videos I've seen on youtube.
I was driving myself crazy trying to fix the old as anything faucet in my kitchen and not being able to figure out what's wrong or why I was having trouble. Then I found this video which is the exact same model and a step-by-step walk through and it pretty much saved my sanity. So thank you, very much. You've done a great deed you had no idea about.
Your video is golden! I wasted so much time with "Lowes video" and 3 other videos that didn't show how hard I had to pull out and the fact that new cylinder had key to twist faucet. After watching your video everything became clear.. Thank you for clear instructions!!!
Thanks. It happens when the faucet is running . I will call Moen. And as an aside, thanks for inspring me to finally open a TH-cam account. It took a while but I finally figured out why I couldn't set it up. World, Be prepared to be inundated with videos from my cell phone. Thanks again, Len
I checked out several different replacement videos, but yours was the first to explain the white plastic tool, which was what I needed to understand to finally get the job done. Thanks!
Struggled with a leaky moen kitchen faucet for many years. Could not identify the model of the moen faucet and unclear about the need moen parts. Confused on how to repair until I watch these (part 1 & 2) videos. Purchased parts at local big box home improvement store and followed the steps described. Video correctly pointed out areas the may cause difficulty as part of the repair process and work-arounds / hints to make the process easier. Very happy with my repair results - Thanks for these videos.
Oh thank you! I failed to get the lever clipped onto the ring when I put it back together (a few years ago), and it has never worked correctly because of that. Your video helped me see what I did wrong!!!!! It works so much better when you put it back together correctly!
First thanks you're a life-saver. Second you made it look easy to do. Now I can can stop that pesky leak and keep my water bill from going through the roof. Going to the store now wish me luck.
Thanks for this video! It was very helpful! I did not know what the plastic thing was that came with the cartridge in the package. The directions were inadequate - no text, only pictures. Without your video, I'd still be struggling to replace the cartridge! Thanks for posting!
Hey Ted! Found this video while researching my leaky Moen faucet, and this actually walked me through replacing the cartridge myself! Given I have about zero handyman skills, this was an amazing help and you probably saved me $200 for a plumber to help. Plus now my handle actually moves up and down without having to pound it with a hammer now! Great job.
Couple of Tips: Instead of ViceGrips to get the old cartridge out, I just screwed the handle back on with the center screw and used that handle assembly to pull the core out. I wasn't able to press the new brass cartridge in with my fingers, but there was no obvious obstruction, so I took the threaded cap that holds it all together, turned it upside down over the cartridge, and tapped it in gently with a rubber mallet. Turned out great - this was my Mom's kitchen sink and she's thrilled. It had gotten so stiff that she could barely work it.
Chris..Sorry very Bad advice. I phoned Moen (same problem). You can damage the handle attachment, but also it could just lock into the stem and pull the stem out, leaving the rest of the cartridge detached inside. Don't do this. "Instead of ViceGrips to get the old cartridge out, I just screwed the handle back on with the center screw and used that handle assembly to pull the core out."
Thanks for making this so easy for someone who has never had to home repair since i wasn't a homeowner till recently. Switching out the cartridge was made so easy because of your video. On a side note, my brother in law, who does contracting work for a living needed the video just as much as me, so that made me feel better. Unfortunately, we realized that one of the parts was corroded beyond use, and we were unable to get a new one, so all our work was for naught (we ended up going back out to buy a new faucet when we couldn't get the new part), BUT your video was a great help. Thanks.
Thanks for posting this video. I am replacing a Mohen single handle faucet right now, and based on what is all involved with this, I will never buy a Mohen faucet again. This is way more difficult than it should be. I like the old double handle faucets that you just take off with a Phillips screw driver and change a gasket.
Thanks, this is just what we needed! The old (plastic!) cartridge was horribly stuck, just like you said it would be. I found that putting some vinegar on it, then letting it sit with a damp rag on top for a few minutes, seemed to help loosen some old hard water deposits. If anyone tries this, test the vinegar in a small spot first and be careful not to get it on the base. Some finishes can be ruined by it (especially the "brass" ones.)
Thank you so much! Your video was such a blessing! Fixed the faucet right up with your detailed instructions without calling a professional. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Thank you so much for this instructional video. I am about to repair my kitchen faucet, and your expertise helped me understand how to do it, and what parts are the best to get. You rock!
After I saw your video, I was pretty sure all I needed to do to fix my problem was replace the o-ring. And it turned out that was correct. Thanks a million!
Leaking and stiff movement in the cartridge and faucet arm - first thought, call the plumber; second thought, MAYBE I can do this myself - (never worked on a single lever before). Found your video - bottom line, successful repair and wifey is happy.. Thanks for your help. DCC
Great video with good photography and instruction. My problem was the handle would be difficult to open and close with using a great amount of force. I did not have the model # of the faucet so could not buy the part needed before pulling it out. Problem was It was so stuck tight I could not pull it out. So I poured in CLR around the cartridge and pushed and pulled the top control loosening it up and poured more CLR while pumping it. I put it all back together and has been working perfectly now for 2 weeks without replacing the cartridge. So this is another quick fix option to try.
Excellent video. I had to get all the way to the point of using an extraction tool and backing the cartridge out by cranking the hex nut down (4-6 turns). It came out in pieces, but it came out. As you said, lots of grease on the replacement cartridge is key. Thanks for the help.
Love you, man! You had the only video that dealt with exactly my faucet. I hate plumbing tasks...even the most basic...but thought I would give it a go vs spending the money on a plumber. If it failed, then in comes the plumber. But WE nailed it!
By the way - thanks to your video(s), I'm going to attempt to replace my cartridge - unfortunately, I rarely have any luck with plumbing repairs. You make it look so easy. Wish me luck (I don't mind trying - if I mess up - I'll call in a professional)!
Thanks, I have the similar style of faucet. The spout was not much for swiveling in the sink, sort of stiff and rigid. Then it started to leak on the top and base of the swivel and then it was time to address it. Used your post to replace the 'O' rings. Now no leaks and the spout swivels too. Saved a visit from the plumber.
Well - I'm down to the retaining clip - I've got to find a flathead screwdriver small enough to fit in the gap. I hope, I hope, I hope, I can fix this myself! Myself and the help from you most excellent video!
Make sure the cylinder where the new cartridge goes is very clean and smooth. I used some very fine abrasive (like toothpaste or emery cloth) on the inside of mine which was slightly rough. I replaced a cartridge previously after 2 months because the cylinder chewed up the seals on the new cartridge.
I don't know if this helps at all but the "U" shaped pin was on the opposite direction as in the video and I put it back the way you demonstrated in the video. In other words the open end of the pin was facing toward the front of the sink when I disassembled the faucet and when I replaced the cartridge I placed the pin so the opening was away from the front of the sink. I do not know if maybe a seal (as you have stated) is bad and seals the faucet sometimes but not others.
Thank you so much for posting this!! I did have trouble putting in the new cartridge, though... it didn't want to advance in all the way so that I could put in the U clip properly and I really had to force it in - just seemed like it had some pressure behind it. I do have a question - do you know what could cause the hand sprayer to spray weaker now with the repair? The water supply would shut off when I engaged the hand sprayer but now it doesn't and the water pressure in the sprayer is weak
Thank you your response. The faucet leaks sometimes but only while the faucet is on. The replacement cartridge fixed the dripping faucet and leak at the base but not it leaks when we run it. I turn it to hot it leaks sometimes and then other times it will not. I run the faucet on cold and it leaks sometimes and other times not. I try running it using our Brita and it leaks at times and other time it doesn't. I know this isn't specific but it seems intermittent.
when the rubber pads break off the cartridge and get stuck in the water source ports in the faucet, a great tool to grab and extract them is a curved, locking hemostat. i have used this a couple of times - as is said in the video, the pads break off often during removal of the cartridge. especially ones that have been in there for a while.
Thanks for the vid. Mine won't divert pressure to the spray head. I'm going to fix a slight drip by replacing the cartridge. Will that do it, or do I need another part?
Thank you very much for this informative video! I was able to replace the cartridge last night. However, I now have a leak coming from the assembly that houses the cartridge. Any suggestions?
Great video! Thanks so much! I followed every step until the old cartridge would not come out---rotate but not come out. I think it has been "in" forever.After at least an hour I noticed another retainer clip ,so i removed it and the "pin "(of the cartride)came out .The cartridge will still rotate but not come out . Right now,I think i may have to get a plumber and replace the whole fixture? Any help and suggestions would be appreciated!THANKS
Ignore Ramon. Excellent both the explanation and the visual closeups. Many thanks, Tedjar. I know this was 9 years ago, but I searched countless TH-cams hoping to find a faucet similar to mine. Amazing, almost identical in parts. My clip puzzled. It just would not come out. I called Moen. Your clip pulls from the front but Moen said it could be front or back...and mine was back. She said when I put it back together i can install the clip in the front (choice). So now, pliers and white plastic slide the cartridge easily...but I am stuck. I have locking pliers and am very strong. But...the cartridge won't pull up. Is there a safe lubricant that can be added to allow the cartridge to slither up? (I have Moen's silicone packets.
Great video, except I have an allen screw holding the top on instead of a screw and it's stripped... Which part fixes the faucet from leaking out of the top? Thanks
My Moen unit is some 20+ years old, and the retaining nut seems to be corroded to the extent that it is frozen and won't move. The entire faucet cartridge/base move with it, but it does not budge. I've put lots of penetrating oil on it; I'll leave it overnight and see if I can budge it tomorrow. If not, it's "call the plumber" time!
Thanks for the information last week. I changed the cartridge and o rings. The issue that I have now is that the water is not coming out with as much force as before. It rakes 10 min to fill the sink up. I was thinking that maybe I used too much lube. I wiped all of the excess lube, but to no avail. What can possibly be wrong? Thank You.
Be sure to have the WHITE PLATIC PART before trying to remove the old cartridge; you really need it to remove the old cartridge. You will find that part with the new cartridge. Thanks Mr John for your detail instructions. Oh yes follow them carefully if you don't want to end up with hot water right side and cold left side.
@tedjar It's been stiff since the day it was installed (Oct. 31st, 2008). Always hoped it would eventually loosen up with use, but it hasn't. Does it sound to you like the cartridge was just defective when he put it in?
Thanks for the vid. Because I have the same faucet that you show, I was able to fix mine. Just one strange problem I had with the brass replacement. I wound up with about a 1/8 inch gap between the base and the faucet piece. Nothing leaks so I'm happy about that but I feel I must have done something wrong somewhere to have that gap. If you know how I can correct that I'd be grateful to know the secret.
Attempted to begin my Moen faucet repair...popped the cap and went to unscrew the attachment screw that attaches the handle to the cartridge but it just spins without disconnecting from the cartridge.....I've held the handle and just watch the rubber and whatever just spin in the barrel. Holding the handle doesn't keep it from spinning and can't figure out any way to loosen the screw. Any advice you can provide or should I just get a whole new faucet??
This is a shot in the dark, but... you mentioned that the plastic units can get jammed up. Well, that's what happened to me, the bottom of the old cartridge is broken off. So how do I get the old one out? I have tried jamming a screwdriver in there with not much luck so far. Maybe I need something with a longer reach, something sharper? Would heating the faucet with a hair dryer maybe loosen the jam enough to get it loose? I'm desperate.
Liked. Very helpful. Do any of the big box stores sell Moen cartridges and other parts? ( Orings etc) Or must you buy them from Moen? Can't seem to find Moen parts online.
Plastic vs. brass cartridge -- from my experience all you get for a free replacement is the plastic variety. I miss the old washer-based faucets. I found it much simpler to replace washers than cartridges, but after decades of having a single-handled faucet in the kitchen I doubt that "management" will allow me to go back to a two handled faucet.
@tedjar The pivot mechanism of the handle has broken and can see what happens with the turning of the screw....and the entire cartridge is spinning. There is no leakage...so is this normal?? I can open the faucet but to stop the water I need to push down on the top of the handle. In order to repair I need to remove the screw but have no way to brace the cartridge for resistance to remove the screw. Should I try pulling the whole cartridge out with the handle or just get a new faucet?
Hi tedjar, thanks for the info. I do have a quick question. I have a moen banbury faucet. Instead of a screw under the cap, it has what at first glance looks like a hex head but it is too round to fit any of the hexes I have, nor any of the 30 or so-odd screwdriver heads I have. Any ideas? Thanks, by the way for this video. It sent me in the right direction! Jim
I have just been viewing your excellent Moen repair video. I have a similar Moen faucet but it has a pull out spout instead of the fixed. It is about a dozen years old. (We noticed lots of water in the cabinet below last night.) Mine has the same flat top with the Moen logo as the one in the video. I cannot find any models that look like yours or mine on the Moen page. How can find the correct model number to replace the cartridge? Thanks. Len
Nice video, (I have that same faucet), but under the cover -next to the stainless sink top- those little black spots... BLACK MOLD?... Mine is growing fiercely every day... I heard it is bad for you... I am taking the whole faucet off, before I purchase the internals -just in case I need to replace the whole unit... Shouldn't you deal with that BLACK MOLD also???
Good tutorial Ted! I replaced cart. amd ,much nicer except i get some water flow when lever is in center position just a little when shut off but when i put ot tp the other sides it shiuts on and off normally... help? this is confusing.,...
Mine I believe is 1964 original. It doesn't leak but it's so stiff that it takes 2 hands to turn it on and off and it literally bends the whole sink when turning on and off that's how stiff it is. I've taken it apart and used penetrating oil but it doesn't help. I've had to replace the adaptor (100429) twice now because there's so much force on it it keeps breaking. It's just cheap pot metal. Is it the cartridge the needs replacing? Under the cap it say's 100940 J2, I think that's the model number.
Hi, thanks for the informative video! I have a question: the handle on my faucet requires an annoying amount of force to lift up or push down, so do you think that's caused by a build-up of gunk and can I make the mechanism move freely by simply taking it apart and cleaning it? Thank you.
Good job, tedjar. If you were repairing instead of replacing the spindle, don't use vise grips on the brass. Instead, refit the screw and pull on it with a pair of needle nose pliers or the claw of a hammer.
I got a free cartridge at Rona yesterday. They told me that all Moen single faucets use cartridge number 1225. Handed it to me and said no charge as Moen is guaranteed for life. I'll be replacing it this weekend.
After a complete repair, and the water is off,.should there be a gap between the bottom of the spout base and body base, or should there be no gap there, but instead a gap between the top of the spout base and the bottom of the handle base - when the water is off, handle all the way down (obviously there will be a temporary gap when the water is fully on!). I get a leak when I leave a gap at the bottom of the spoutbase to the body base (sink mount plate), but no leak when I push the spout down on top of the plate as far as it can go. Is the latter the correct final, working position for this model? -----12:03am CDT Edit Add: I think I figured this out: by tightening the retaining ring with pliers rather than just by hand - the leak at the base now stops. The recommended tightening the ring by hand can be a mistake, as the ring can come loose (from only hand-tightening) by moving the spout back and forth in normal operation.
? - Is there a difference in types of plumbers grease? I found "silicone grease" and "waterproof grease" (and bought both just in case (at Home Depot).
Hello, my Uncle broke the screw head off of the handle screw. Does the cartridge come with another screw? Or, is my uncle going to have to purchase another fixture? How can the screw be taken out now that the head is broken off? Thanks
That dang little clip! I must have spent more than an hour before I finally got it reinstalled. (Without too much damage to the other parts.) If only I could find where to put that extra piece ... If installed the spout won't go back on, but without it the spout leaks. Ah, what fun.
The handle on my facuet is stiff when I try and turn on the water. If I follow your instructions from 2:08, will popping that cover tap and then loosening the screw underneath make the handle less stiff to move?
I am having trouble with the disassembly. All is fine until I get to the step at about 3:00 in the video, when you "loosen the locking nut". When I turn the locking nut more than one rotation, it acts as though it is held in place with rubber -- it twists itself back into its former place. I turn, it turns itself back. The more I turn, the more forcefully it snaps back. I'm thinking that perhaps an old O-ring is adhered to it underneath or something. Help!
I am encountering an issue where the main screw attaching everything to the cylinder will not come out (Beginning at 2:25 in your video). I have tried everything and it just spins but does not dislodge from whatever it is connected to.......what are my options in this case as getting this screw out kinda affects everything??
I have an old school Moen faucet that appears to be the same as the one you are fixing in your video. Mine is Model # M&300 according to the back of the handle piece. When I go to Moen's site and do a search on that model they say they have no product with that model number. What model is yours? And, what part number cartridge are you using? I can't see it in the video. Is it the 1225 from Moen? Mine leaks badly from between the handle and the faucet pieces in the back. I assume I need to replace the cartridge and O rings. Thanks in advance for replying to me.
I have a single faucet Moen which is at least 8 years old. How do I tell the model? I flipped off the Moen cover and there are a series of numbers underneath, so far the numbers don't tell me which cartridge model to get.
If you cannot get the horseshoe clip to fit back in with the new one, do the following: 1. Pray 2. Plastic tabs on the new cartridge must line up with the existing slots. 12 and 6 position, like a clock. Must be aligned exact or the retainer clip with not slip in easily. 3. This new cartridge must be pushed down all the way and aligned on top with those plastic tabs on new cartridge. 4. When you push in retainer clip you can see the entire clip on top. 5. Call Moen Tech Support
A hard to move handle is a sign that the cartridge is stating to fail. It won't be long before it starts to drip, so replacing the cartridge will not only stop drips, it will make the handle move with ease.
I followed the directions and all went well until I tried to pull the cartriidge out but it broke off and plastic is still in the faucet. Guts are gone from the cartridge and it appears plastic is still in faucet. Any help would be appreciated.
WHOAH! You do NOT need vice-grips to pull the cartridge out! Just use a steel pin punch through the divertor holes (this MOEN does not have a separate divertor, its divertor is built into the design) - the holes face each other on either side of the faucet "pull" (the silver part that has the H/C orientation notch).
Thank you for a great tutorial. However, I disagree with not using the same cartridge. I used the brass cartridge and it DID NOT work properly. The cartridge was too long and made it extremely difficult to replace the clip. I was also experiencing torn rubber o-rings during installation. It may have been because I was using BrassCraft instead of a Moen cartridge, but it kept failing that this, in combination with fit, were causing repeat failures. After several unsuccessful tries, I ended up buying an exact replacement cartridge (the 1225) and it fit perfectly. It installed smoothly with plenty of room to reinstall the clip. While I am very thankful for your tutorial, I suggest people make sure they have the correct cartridge vs. the suggested replacement.
I'm sure you've gotten many responses like this (I haven't read the posts), but THANK YOU SOOOO MUCH!!! I'm good at taking things apart (and usually at putting them back together), but my locking nut was so badly frozen in place that I had become convinced that it was an integral part, and I would have to remove the faucet from the sink in order to get at the cartridge. Your video showed me the way, and now the faucet is not only not leaking, but works far better than it has for many years!
Outstanding video quality, narration and information.
My Moen 7100 kitchen faucet was squirting water out the side of the faucet base when running water. I replaced the cartridge with a brass one - nice smooth action, but same problem.
I viewed this video (Parts 1 and 2), learned how/why to remove the faucet and replace O-rings. Put it all back together and now it's all water-tight and like-new.
Thanks so much for sharing your expertise!
Tedjar, you are the man! I was dreading repairing my leaking Moen faucet (plastic cartridge was stuck so I didn't want to break anything and have to buy a new faucet) and you showed how to do it so easily. Breaking the old stem loose, using plenty of heat-proof plumber's grease and cleaning crucial areas were the keys to my repair. All your advice and comments were spot on. Now my repaired faucet feels and works better than ever! Kudos to you and Thank You very much!
This video is spot on for me.I have that exact type of kitchen faucet and it wouldn't function without using extra force,so I followed the repair video here and bought the exact type of replacement cartridge and O-rings and plumbers' grease and replaced the cartridge and O-rings.Now the faucet works like new! Yay!This vid has way better instructions than what comes with the new cartridge too,although I followed both ways.And I was considering replacing the whole faucet assembly and it would have been a real headache,but now I don't have to do that.Thanks much tedjar.You do rule!
Same exact Moen faucet here too. (M7300) My problem was with the base at the spout/handle. At first I thought it might be just the outer O-rings so I bought those and replaced. The spout had some kind of rubber inside the spout base at the top O-ring area and it was coming apart. So I removed the material and cleaned it to give me a good seat between the spout base and the outer O-rings. That didn't work so I went ahead and bought the 1200 cartridge. Put it all back together and THAT stopped the leak. Would not have been very easy without this excellent how-to video. Very much appreciate your time. It made the job much easier. THANKS!!!
Going by the directions I coud NOT remove the old stem. After your video advice I was able to do the job. You are doing a great public service. Thank you! - Joe
This is exactly how a how-to video should be shot. Exactly to the point, with no side chatter talking about stuff that isn't relevant. This is one of the best how-to videos I've seen on youtube.
I was driving myself crazy trying to fix the old as anything faucet in my kitchen and not being able to figure out what's wrong or why I was having trouble. Then I found this video which is the exact same model and a step-by-step walk through and it pretty much saved my sanity. So thank you, very much. You've done a great deed you had no idea about.
Your video is golden! I wasted so much time with "Lowes video" and 3 other videos that didn't show how hard I had to pull out and the fact that new cylinder had key to twist faucet. After watching your video everything became clear.. Thank you for clear instructions!!!
Thanks. It happens when the faucet is running . I will call Moen. And as an aside, thanks for inspring me to finally open a TH-cam account. It took a while but I finally figured out why I couldn't set it up. World, Be prepared to be inundated with videos from my cell phone.
Thanks again,
Len
Saved my day! Fixed a kitchen faucet that has been leaking forever. Looking forward to lower water bills!Thanks
Wow, 9 years later and still helping!! Just completed a repair of my very old moen faucet in no small part aided by this video. Thank you!
I checked out several different replacement videos, but yours was the first to explain the white plastic tool, which was what I needed to understand to finally get the job done. Thanks!
Struggled with a leaky moen kitchen faucet for many years. Could not identify the model of the moen faucet and unclear about the need moen parts. Confused on how to repair until I watch these (part 1 & 2) videos. Purchased parts at local big box home improvement store and followed the steps described. Video correctly pointed out areas the may cause difficulty as part of the repair process and work-arounds / hints to make the process easier. Very happy with my repair results - Thanks for these videos.
Oh thank you! I failed to get the lever clipped onto the ring when I put it back together (a few years ago), and it has never worked correctly because of that. Your video helped me see what I did wrong!!!!! It works so much better when you put it back together correctly!
Thanks to your video I was able to repair the dripping kitchen faucet today. Your the man!
First thanks you're a life-saver. Second you made it look easy to do. Now I can can stop that pesky leak and keep my water bill from going through the roof.
Going to the store now wish me luck.
Thanks for this video! It was very helpful! I did not know what the plastic thing was that came with the cartridge in the package. The directions were inadequate - no text, only pictures. Without your video, I'd still be struggling to replace the cartridge! Thanks for posting!
Hey Ted! Found this video while researching my leaky Moen faucet, and this actually walked me through replacing the cartridge myself! Given I have about zero handyman skills, this was an amazing help and you probably saved me $200 for a plumber to help. Plus now my handle actually moves up and down without having to pound it with a hammer now! Great job.
Couple of Tips:
Instead of ViceGrips to get the old cartridge out, I just screwed the handle back on with the center screw and used that handle assembly to pull the core out.
I wasn't able to press the new brass cartridge in with my fingers, but there was no obvious obstruction, so I took the threaded cap that holds it all together, turned it upside down over the cartridge, and tapped it in gently with a rubber mallet.
Turned out great - this was my Mom's kitchen sink and she's thrilled. It had gotten so stiff that she could barely work it.
Chris..Sorry very Bad advice. I phoned Moen (same problem). You can damage the handle attachment, but also it could just lock into the stem and pull the stem out, leaving the rest of the cartridge detached inside. Don't do this. "Instead of ViceGrips to get the old cartridge out, I just screwed the handle back on with the center screw and used that handle assembly to pull the core out."
thanks to this vid i knew exactly what to do, how to do it and what to expect. 30 minutes ago leak..now, no leak. Thanks!
Absolutely BRILLIANT. Never would've been able to do it without this video. THANK YOU!
Thanks for making this so easy for someone who has never had to home repair since i wasn't a homeowner till recently. Switching out the cartridge was made so easy because of your video. On a side note, my brother in law, who does contracting work for a living needed the video just as much as me, so that made me feel better. Unfortunately, we realized that one of the parts was corroded beyond use, and we were unable to get a new one, so all our work was for naught (we ended up going back out to buy a new faucet when we couldn't get the new part), BUT your video was a great help. Thanks.
Thanks for posting this video. I am replacing a Mohen single handle faucet right now, and based on what is all involved with this, I will never buy a Mohen faucet again. This is way more difficult than it should be. I like the old double handle faucets that you just take off with a Phillips screw driver and change a gasket.
Thanks, this is just what we needed! The old (plastic!) cartridge was horribly stuck, just like you said it would be. I found that putting some vinegar on it, then letting it sit with a damp rag on top for a few minutes, seemed to help loosen some old hard water deposits. If anyone tries this, test the vinegar in a small spot first and be careful not to get it on the base. Some finishes can be ruined by it (especially the "brass" ones.)
Thank you so much! Your video was such a blessing! Fixed the faucet right up with your detailed instructions without calling a professional. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Thank you so much for this instructional video. I am about to repair my kitchen faucet, and your expertise helped me understand how to do it, and what parts are the best to get. You rock!
After I saw your video, I was pretty sure all I needed to do to fix my problem was replace the o-ring. And it turned out that was correct. Thanks a million!
Thanks so much. This was a big help as the particle board underneath was getting water damaged, and I wasn't sure how to start. All fixed now.
Leaking and stiff movement in the cartridge and faucet arm - first thought, call the plumber; second thought, MAYBE I can do this myself - (never worked on a single lever before).
Found your video - bottom line, successful repair and wifey is happy.. Thanks for your help.
DCC
Great video with good photography and instruction. My problem was the handle would be difficult to open and close with using a great amount of force. I did not have the model # of the faucet so could not buy the part needed before pulling it out. Problem was It was so stuck tight I could not pull it out. So I poured in CLR around the cartridge and pushed and pulled the top control loosening it up and poured more CLR while pumping it. I put it all back together and has been working perfectly now for 2 weeks without replacing the cartridge. So this is another quick fix option to try.
Wonderful video. I have a very old sink and this was clear and spot on. Used a moen cartridge puller, very easy
Excellent video. I had to get all the way to the point of using an extraction tool and backing the cartridge out by cranking the hex nut down (4-6 turns). It came out in pieces, but it came out. As you said, lots of grease on the replacement cartridge is key. Thanks for the help.
Love you, man! You had the only video that dealt with exactly my faucet. I hate plumbing tasks...even the most basic...but thought I would give it a go vs spending the money on a plumber. If it failed, then in comes the plumber. But WE nailed it!
By the way - thanks to your video(s), I'm going to attempt to replace my cartridge - unfortunately, I rarely have any luck with plumbing repairs. You make it look so easy. Wish me luck (I don't mind trying - if I mess up - I'll call in a professional)!
Thanks, I have the similar style of faucet. The spout was not much for swiveling in the sink, sort of stiff and rigid. Then it started to leak on the top and base of the swivel and then it was time to address it. Used your post to replace the 'O' rings. Now no leaks and the spout swivels too. Saved a visit from the plumber.
Thanks. Helpful. The white thing -cartridge removal cap- actually worked for me. 🤝
Thanks for a clear, straightforward tutorial.
EXCELLENT tutorial! I was looking everywhere and finally found this! I will definitely share!
Good deal man !! Thank you. I have the same exact faucet as the one you were showing and now no leak, Thanks again
Well - I'm down to the retaining clip - I've got to find a flathead screwdriver small enough to fit in the gap. I hope, I hope, I hope, I can fix this myself! Myself and the help from you most excellent video!
Hey Just wanted to say thanks for uploading. You saved me from having to call a plumber when the cartridge broke.
Great video. Worked perfect step for step for my 1225 cartridge replacement.
Thanks for posting! This helped my mom fix our STUPID faucet!!! It was very good!!!!
Great concise video. I had never done this before and your video made it easy!!
Make sure the cylinder where the new cartridge goes is very clean and smooth. I used some very fine abrasive (like toothpaste or emery cloth) on the inside of mine which was slightly rough. I replaced a cartridge previously after 2 months because the cylinder chewed up the seals on the new cartridge.
I don't know if this helps at all but the "U" shaped pin was on the opposite direction as in the video and I put it back the way you demonstrated in the video. In other words the open end of the pin was facing toward the front of the sink when I disassembled the faucet and when I replaced the cartridge I placed the pin so the opening was away from the front of the sink. I do not know if maybe a seal (as you have stated) is bad and seals the faucet sometimes but not others.
Thank you so much for posting this!! I did have trouble putting in the new cartridge, though... it didn't want to advance in all the way so that I could put in the U clip properly and I really had to force it in - just seemed like it had some pressure behind it. I do have a question - do you know what could cause the hand sprayer to spray weaker now with the repair? The water supply would shut off when I engaged the hand sprayer but now it doesn't and the water pressure in the sprayer is weak
Thank you your response. The faucet leaks sometimes but only while the faucet is on. The replacement cartridge fixed the dripping faucet and leak at the base but not it leaks when we run it. I turn it to hot it leaks sometimes and then other times it will not. I run the faucet on cold and it leaks sometimes and other times not. I try running it using our Brita and it leaks at times and other time it doesn't. I know this isn't specific but it seems intermittent.
Thank you very much for posting this. It was a great help! I did break the stupid bushing where the screw attaches the handle to the stem. My fault.
when the rubber pads break off the cartridge and get stuck in the water source ports in the faucet, a great tool to grab and extract them is a curved, locking hemostat. i have used this a couple of times - as is said in the video, the pads break off often during removal of the cartridge. especially ones that have been in there for a while.
Thanks for the vid. Mine won't divert pressure to the spray head. I'm going to fix a slight drip by replacing the cartridge. Will that do it, or do I need another part?
Thank you very much for this informative video! I was able to replace the cartridge last night. However, I now have a leak coming from the assembly that houses the cartridge. Any suggestions?
Nice video. How can I find out if it is the o-rings or the cartridge? I don't want to spend money if I don't need to. Thanks
Great video! Thanks so much! I followed every step until the old cartridge would not come out---rotate but not come out. I think it has been "in" forever.After at least an hour I noticed another retainer clip ,so i removed it and the "pin "(of the cartride)came out .The cartridge will still rotate but not come out . Right now,I think i may have to get a plumber and replace the whole fixture? Any help and suggestions would be appreciated!THANKS
Ignore Ramon. Excellent both the explanation and the visual closeups. Many thanks, Tedjar. I know this was 9 years ago, but I searched countless TH-cams hoping to find a faucet similar to mine. Amazing, almost identical in parts. My clip puzzled. It just would not come out. I called Moen. Your clip pulls from the front but Moen said it could be front or back...and mine was back. She said when I put it back together i can install the clip in the front (choice). So now, pliers and white plastic slide the cartridge easily...but I am stuck. I have locking pliers and am very strong. But...the cartridge won't pull up. Is there a safe lubricant that can be added to allow the cartridge to slither up? (I have Moen's silicone packets.
Great video, except I have an allen screw holding the top on instead of a screw and it's stripped... Which part fixes the faucet from leaking out of the top? Thanks
My Moen unit is some 20+ years old, and the retaining nut seems to be corroded to the extent that it is frozen and won't move. The entire faucet cartridge/base move with it, but it does not budge. I've put lots of penetrating oil on it; I'll leave it overnight and see if I can budge it tomorrow. If not, it's "call the plumber" time!
Thanks for the information last week. I changed the cartridge and o rings. The issue that I have now is that the water is not coming out with as much force as before. It rakes 10 min to fill the sink up. I was thinking that maybe I used too much lube. I wiped all of the excess lube, but to no avail. What can possibly be wrong? Thank You.
Be sure to have the WHITE PLATIC PART before trying to remove the old cartridge; you really need it to remove the old cartridge. You will find that part with the new cartridge. Thanks Mr John for your detail instructions. Oh yes follow them carefully if you don't want to end up with hot water right side and cold left side.
@tedjar It's been stiff since the day it was installed (Oct. 31st, 2008). Always hoped it would eventually loosen up with use, but it hasn't. Does it sound to you like the cartridge was just defective when he put it in?
Thanks for the vid. Because I have the same faucet that you show, I was able to fix mine. Just one strange problem I had with the brass replacement. I wound up with about a 1/8 inch gap between the base and the faucet piece. Nothing leaks so I'm happy about that but I feel I must have done something wrong somewhere to have that gap. If you know how I can correct that I'd be grateful to know the secret.
Attempted to begin my Moen faucet repair...popped the cap and went to unscrew the attachment screw that attaches the handle to the cartridge but it just spins without disconnecting from the cartridge.....I've held the handle and just watch the rubber and whatever just spin in the barrel. Holding the handle doesn't keep it from spinning and can't figure out any way to loosen the screw.
Any advice you can provide or should I just get a whole new faucet??
This is a shot in the dark, but... you mentioned that the plastic units can get jammed up. Well, that's what happened to me, the bottom of the old cartridge is broken off. So how do I get the old one out? I have tried jamming a screwdriver in there with not much luck so far. Maybe I need something with a longer reach, something sharper? Would heating the faucet with a hair dryer maybe loosen the jam enough to get it loose? I'm desperate.
Liked. Very helpful. Do any of the big box stores sell Moen cartridges and other parts? ( Orings etc) Or must you buy them from Moen? Can't seem to find Moen parts online.
Plastic vs. brass cartridge -- from my experience all you get for a free replacement is the plastic variety.
I miss the old washer-based faucets. I found it much simpler to replace washers than cartridges, but after decades of having a single-handled faucet in the kitchen I doubt that "management" will allow me to go back to a two handled faucet.
@tedjar The pivot mechanism of the handle has broken and can see what happens with the turning of the screw....and the entire cartridge is spinning. There is no leakage...so is this normal?? I can open the faucet but to stop the water I need to push down on the top of the handle.
In order to repair I need to remove the screw but have no way to brace the cartridge for resistance to remove the screw. Should I try pulling the whole cartridge out with the handle or just get a new faucet?
Hi tedjar, thanks for the info. I do have a quick question. I have a moen banbury faucet. Instead of a screw under the cap, it has what at first glance looks like a hex head but it is too round to fit any of the hexes I have, nor any of the 30 or so-odd screwdriver heads I have. Any ideas? Thanks, by the way for this video. It sent me in the right direction! Jim
I have just been viewing your excellent Moen repair video. I have a similar Moen faucet but it has a pull out spout instead of the fixed. It is about a dozen years old. (We noticed lots of water in the cabinet below last night.)
Mine has the same flat top with the Moen logo as the one in the video. I cannot find any models that look like yours or mine on the Moen page. How can find the correct model number to replace the cartridge? Thanks.
Len
Nice video, (I have that same faucet), but under the cover -next to the stainless sink top- those little black spots... BLACK MOLD?... Mine is growing fiercely every day... I heard it is bad for you... I am taking the whole faucet off, before I purchase the internals -just in case I need to replace the whole unit... Shouldn't you deal with that BLACK MOLD also???
Good tutorial Ted! I replaced cart. amd ,much nicer except i get some water flow when lever is in center position just a little when shut off but when i put ot tp the other sides it shiuts on and off normally... help? this is confusing.,...
Mine I believe is 1964 original. It doesn't leak but it's so stiff that it takes 2 hands to turn it on and off and it literally bends the whole sink when turning on and off that's how stiff it is. I've taken it apart and used penetrating oil but it doesn't help. I've had to replace the adaptor (100429) twice now because there's so much force on it it keeps breaking. It's just cheap pot metal. Is it the cartridge the needs replacing? Under the cap it say's 100940 J2, I think that's the model number.
Hi, thanks for the informative video!
I have a question: the handle on my faucet requires an annoying amount of force to lift up or push down, so do you think that's caused by a build-up of gunk and can I make the mechanism move freely by simply taking it apart and cleaning it? Thank you.
Good job, tedjar. If you were repairing instead of replacing the spindle, don't use vise grips on the brass. Instead, refit the screw and pull on it with a pair of needle nose pliers or the claw of a hammer.
I got a free cartridge at Rona yesterday. They told me that all Moen single faucets use cartridge number 1225. Handed it to me and said no charge as Moen is guaranteed for life. I'll be replacing it this weekend.
A lot of views on this video, does that mean there are a lot of problems with a Moen? Good video my man.
After a complete repair, and the water is off,.should there be a gap between the bottom of the spout base and body base, or should there be no gap there, but instead a gap between the top of the spout base and the bottom of the handle base - when the water is off, handle all the way down (obviously there will be a temporary gap when the water is fully on!).
I get a leak when I leave a gap at the bottom of the spoutbase to the body base (sink mount plate), but no leak when I push the spout down on top of the plate as far as it can go. Is the latter the correct final, working position for this model?
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Edit Add:
I think I figured this out: by tightening the retaining ring with pliers rather than just by hand - the leak at the base now stops. The recommended tightening the ring by hand can be a mistake, as the ring can come loose (from only hand-tightening) by moving the spout back and forth in normal operation.
? - Is there a difference in types of plumbers grease? I found "silicone grease" and "waterproof grease" (and bought both just in case (at Home Depot).
How about loose handle on the single swing away handle. It is loose and won't hold position?
Hello, my Uncle broke the screw head off of the handle screw. Does the cartridge come with another screw? Or, is my uncle going to have to purchase another fixture? How can the screw be taken out now that the head is broken off?
Thanks
That dang little clip! I must have spent more than an hour before I finally got it reinstalled. (Without too much damage to the other parts.)
If only I could find where to put that extra piece ... If installed the spout won't go back on, but without it the spout leaks.
Ah, what fun.
Thanks for the tip. You got me through it. Good job!
You da man!!! That is what I needed!!
The handle on my facuet is stiff when I try and turn on the water. If I follow your instructions from 2:08, will popping that cover tap and then loosening the screw underneath make the handle less stiff to move?
Thank You! Your video helped A LOT!
I am having trouble with the disassembly. All is fine until I get to the step at about 3:00 in the video, when you "loosen the locking nut". When I turn the locking nut more than one rotation, it acts as though it is held in place with rubber -- it twists itself back into its former place. I turn, it turns itself back. The more I turn, the more forcefully it snaps back. I'm thinking that perhaps an old O-ring is adhered to it underneath or something. Help!
Exactly what I needed! =-) Thanks for the detailed instructions!
I am encountering an issue where the main screw attaching everything to the cylinder will not come out (Beginning at 2:25 in your video). I have tried everything and it just spins but does not dislodge from whatever it is connected to.......what are my options in this case as getting this screw out kinda affects everything??
I have an old school Moen faucet that appears to be the same as the one you are fixing in your video. Mine is Model # M&300 according to the back of the handle piece. When I go to Moen's site and do a search on that model they say they have no product with that model number. What model is yours? And, what part number cartridge are you using? I can't see it in the video. Is it the 1225 from Moen? Mine leaks badly from between the handle and the faucet pieces in the back. I assume I need to replace the cartridge and O rings. Thanks in advance for replying to me.
I have a single faucet Moen which is at least 8 years old. How do I tell the model? I flipped off the Moen cover and there are a series of numbers underneath, so far the numbers don't tell me which cartridge model to get.
If you cannot get the horseshoe clip to fit back in with the new one, do the following:
1. Pray 2. Plastic tabs on the new cartridge must line up with the existing slots. 12 and 6 position, like a clock. Must be aligned exact or the retainer clip with not slip in easily. 3. This new cartridge must be pushed down all the way and aligned on top with those plastic tabs on new cartridge. 4. When you push in retainer clip you can see the entire clip on top. 5. Call Moen Tech Support
Thanks for this helpful video
A hard to move handle is a sign that the cartridge is stating to fail. It won't be long before it starts to drip, so replacing the cartridge will not only stop drips, it will make the handle move with ease.
Thanks for this! It was extremely helpful.
I followed the directions and all went well until I tried to pull the cartriidge out but it broke off and plastic is still in the faucet. Guts are gone from the cartridge and it appears plastic is still in faucet. Any help would be appreciated.
Make sure you removed the clip before trying to loosen the cartridge. Otherwise you will just shred your plastic tool.
WHOAH! You do NOT need vice-grips to pull the cartridge out! Just use a steel pin punch through the divertor holes (this MOEN does not have a separate divertor, its divertor is built into the design) - the holes face each other on either side of the faucet "pull" (the silver part that has the H/C orientation notch).
replacing the cartridge... i got the brass cart. to replace the plastic cart. the retainer clip does not fit; will not go in. now, am at an impasse.
So if I bought a replacement cartridge at Lowe's, I was ripped off?
Thank you for a great tutorial. However, I disagree with not using the same cartridge. I used the brass cartridge and it DID NOT work properly. The cartridge was too long and made it extremely difficult to replace the clip. I was also experiencing torn rubber o-rings during installation. It may have been because I was using BrassCraft instead of a Moen cartridge, but it kept failing that this, in combination with fit, were causing repeat failures. After several unsuccessful tries, I ended up buying an exact replacement cartridge (the 1225) and it fit perfectly. It installed smoothly with plenty of room to reinstall the clip.
While I am very thankful for your tutorial, I suggest people make sure they have the correct cartridge vs. the suggested replacement.
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