Repairing Tub Valve

Question

I have what I believe is a Utopia 4" tub/shower valve with separate hot and cold valves and a connection for the shower. The cold water stem assembly had stripped, so the water would not turn off. I got a new stem assembly, but part of the plastic threads are stuck in the faucet, so I can't screw in the new stem with the old threads still there. I tried using an sharp punch (like an ice pick) to try to get the broken threads to unscrew -- with no luck. Anyone have any tips on how to get the old broken threads to unscrew out ?

If I have to replace the entire tub/shower valve assembly, is that easy to do ? I do see four screws behind the valve assembly that may can be removed to access the back side of the valve. Could someone step me through the replacement process ? Thanks.

nomad297 · Answer

Use an X-Acto knife with a pointed blade to run down the side of the valve body to cut through the old stem threads.Bruce

cj_t · Answer

Bruce,Would you just cut one slot across (perpendicular) the threads, or would you do that in several places to get the threads out ?

nomad297 · Answer

I would probably put the back of the blade against the valve body threads and carefully tap the blade straight down, cutting through the old stem threads. The threads probably serve no purpose in sealing anything, so it shouldn't hurt if you mar them. The stem probably seals with a gasket or o-ring at the top of the valve body. After you get it cut through at that one place, you should be able to wiggle or pry the old threads out.

Bruce

cj_t · Answer

Thanks -- I'll give it a try.

cj_t · Answer

If I can't get the threads out, is it fairly easy to replace the entire tub/shower valve ? The two handled valve looks like it attaches to a box with four screw on the shower surround. If you remove the four screws, can the entire faucet be removed ? Or do you have to access from the back side of the valve ? There is not an access panel in the wall directly behind the valve, but there is a panel beside the tub right above the floor. I'm not sure if you could reach in and access the back side of the faucet from that panel.

Does anyone know if removing the four square head screws would allow the faucet to be removed and replaced ?

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Repairing Tub Valve

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