Fix a Sleeve Cartridge Faucet
The most challenging part of repairing a leaky single lever faucet is figuring out what type of faucet you have and how to take it apart. Once you have it apart, you can take the parts to your local hardware store or home center and purchase a repair kit.

1. Identify faucet type: A single lever sleeve cartridge faucet found in many bathrooms and kitchens has a control lever on top. Before you begin, turn off the water supply to the faucet by closing the stop valves under the sink or turning off the main water supply.

2. Remove control lever: Remove the decorative cover on the top of the faucet to expose the screw that holds the lever housing to the valve stem. Place the tip of your screwdriver between the cover and the lever housing and pry up to pop the cover loose. Turn the screw counter clockwise to loosen it then pull the lever housing and control lever up and off the cartridge stem.

3. Remove retaining nut and grooved sleeve: Use an adjustable wrench to loosen and remove the retaining nut at the top of the faucet body surrounding the cartridge control shaft. Then, slide the grooved sleeve that the control lever fits around up and off the cartridge shaft.

4. Remove cartridge clip and replace cartridge: Under the grooved sleeve is a small U-shaped clip that holds the valve cartridge in the faucet body. Pry the clip loose by placing the tip of your screwdriver between the faucet body and the U-section of the clip. Twist the screwdriver and the clip will move away from the faucet body. Grip the U-head of the clip with your pliers and pull the clip out. Pull up on the cartridge stem to remove the cartridge. If it doesn't come out easily, install the lever housing. This will allow you to get a good grip on the shaft and pull the cartridge out. Take the old cartridge to your local hardware store or home center and purchase a replacement kit. Reassemble the faucet according to the directions. Be sure to replace the O-rings around the faucet body to prevent leaks from the spout.

Written by the editors of HouseNet
Copyright HouseNet, Inc.

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