How to remove top of bathroom sink hot tap?

Question

I had some helpful advice about my previous enquiry - 'No water coming out of hot tap in bathroom sink' - http://uk.answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=AlwO2n3yn4JZ58DlwrRoi3UgBgx.?qid=20061113071510AAwKOj3

I know this is stupid but I can't remove the very top of the tap to inspect it to see if it needs a new washer. I have taken off the top cover and can see a screw down below. The problem is to line up the screwdriver to get that screw undone. It is very difficult to get this alignment because the screw is some way down inside the tap. Are there any neat tips you can suggest.? You can see now I'm a prime candidate for DIY Disasters!

Answer 1

by putting pressure on the screwdriver as you turn it left it will slip into said slot and thus eventually release to replace put a bit of butter/lard on the tip and place screw on the tip this should be sufficient to hold in place whilst tightening screw

Answer 2

If you can see the cross head screw then make sure you shut off water to the tap either via a service valve on the pipe below the tap or by a gate valve in the airing cupboard (this would normally have a bright top) then once water is shut off undo screw using a narrow bladed screwdriver the top of the tap may be a bit tight to remove and may need a slight tap up then remove outer casing just below tap handle thus exposing the problem you will probably be better replacing the whole inside mechanism as it is only about £5 from local DIY stores hope this gives some idea.

Answer 3

I do it all the time EXCEPT.. I do not know of a screw being DOWN deep.. but anyway..

First turn off the water under the sink .... I am assuming you have a water turn off to the sink.. do that first.. then DO as you were doing to get the inside out.. You would probably have to use a LONG narrow screwdriver if I can understand your dilemma. BUT.. YOU KNOW.. rather than removing/changing the washer, I find it cheaper, etc to change the whole little apparatus that the washer goes on.. I usually take MINE down to Home Depot and pick out one that is comparable and put the new one it.. The cost is minimal believe me and well worth it.

Answer 4

You need the right sized screwdriver to fit inside the screw top. Maybe you are using one thats too big?? Good Luck.

Answer 5

i assume the screw is slotted, line the tap head up with the screw so its inline with you then line the screwdriver up before you pop it inside the head. easy

Answer 6

maximum in all probability a broken pipe if all the different faucets are engaged on the warm area. The broken pipe may be the single in between the water heater and the bathtub. If the mixer has ceramic aspects that could additionally be a difficulty in spite of if that's cracked or broken interior.

Answer 7

well, firstly
turn off water at main
use a magnetic screw driver