do I need to replace the entire faucet or just install a handle? It looks corroded inside.
Best Answer
In general, if you are missing some parts of a faucet or valve, you will have to replace the whole thing. You should not expect the core from one faucet to fit the body of another. Each manufacturer, usually for each model, makes the body, core screw, compression nut, handle, etc. to fit together in a unique way.
The only dimensional standard is the soft washer and the seat that it presses against, and even these are made in several sizes and materials.
Sometimes you can get lucky and find in a hardware store a new faucet of the exact same make and model as the one you're trying to fix. Then you can take it apart and use some of the pieces for your repair, which saves the labor of replacing the entire thing. But you're not going to be able to buy parts for a faucet or valve, except for the rubber washer.
Try white vinegar. Drip it into the opening and let it sit for a while or soak a small cloth and leave it on top. Vinegar removes limescale from my flower pots and pet fountains.
I've done exactly this, including stripping the valve stem. You can remove it!
Most valves require a special wrench to unscrew. This is a cheap single-purpose tool; you probably won't be able to use an adjustable wrench or general purpose socket. Here's an example.
You'll slip this wrench over the valve stem and onto the valve body, then unscrew using a screwdriver stuck through the other end of the wrench. Make sure you have a snug fit with the correct size; there are two sizes in common use in the US and most valve wrenches have both.
As an alternative, it is possible there's a retaining nut holding in the valve. If this is the case, there would be a small ring just on the inside of the outer valve body. It would have notches to allow you to unscrew it using snap ring pliers (though you might be able to manage with a pair of needle nose pliers held at an angle). If this is the case, you should be able to see and move the locking ring. On the other hand, if you see a hex outline when you shine a flashlight down past the valve stem, you'll need the valve wrench.
Best Answer
In general, if you are missing some parts of a faucet or valve, you will have to replace the whole thing. You should not expect the core from one faucet to fit the body of another. Each manufacturer, usually for each model, makes the body, core screw, compression nut, handle, etc. to fit together in a unique way.
The only dimensional standard is the soft washer and the seat that it presses against, and even these are made in several sizes and materials.
Sometimes you can get lucky and find in a hardware store a new faucet of the exact same make and model as the one you're trying to fix. Then you can take it apart and use some of the pieces for your repair, which saves the labor of replacing the entire thing. But you're not going to be able to buy parts for a faucet or valve, except for the rubber washer.