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How to repair your ball-type faucet

Step-by-step

1. Turn off water supply. Drain lines by turning on faucet handle.
2. For lever-style handles, locate and loosen screw holding handle, then carefully pry handle off stem or use a faucet handle puller. For round-style handles, remove the decorative cap to locate screw.
3. Cover the cap with tape to protect the finish. Using pliers, unscrew counter-clockwise.
4. Lift out cam assembly and ball.
5. Using a pencil or sharp tool, lift out seats and springs.
6. Check all parts for wear and damage. Replace where necessary.
7. When reassembling, be sure that slot in ball slips into pin in valve body and that lug on cam assembly slides into slot on valve body.
8. Screw cap on clockwise and replace handle. Tighten cap further if leaks develop right after repair.

Tools you'll need

• Screwdriver
• Pliers
• Pencil or sharp tool

For a more complete faucet repair guide, see your local plumbing store or home improvement center.