How to Repair a Delta Brand Kitchen Faucet

Co-authored by David Balkan

Last Updated: November 17, 2024 References

How to replace all of the gaskets and springs in a Delta brand Single-Handle kitchen faucet. These are also called "ball faucets."

Steps

Download Article

The kit Home Depot sells is comprehensive in that it includes all of the washers and gaskets, springs, a new ball, and the plastic inset piece for the top of the assembly.
I say carefully because these are some of the least used valves in your home and they could be corroded making them difficult to turn. NEVER use excessive force, the valves are likely made of brass and brass is softer than steel. Turn on the faucet and make sure the water is turned off.^{[1]
X
Research source}

Advertisement
Lift the handle off of the faucet assemble and set aside.^{[2]
X
Research source}
The plastic ring inset in the chrome-dome is adjustable and can be used to increase or decrease the pressure on the internal components. This threaded ring has four slots cut in it. Push in a notch with a screwdriver to relieve the force on the internal parts. You may need to tap the screwdriver gently with a hammer to get things moving.
You may need to use Channel-Lock pliers to get things moving. Set aside.
This disc should lift off with a black rubber gasket. This gasket is what keeps the faucet from leaking around the top chrome-dome when the water is turned on.
Please note the orientation of the ball, cut into one side of the ball is a slot that rides on a stud inside the socket.^{[3]
X
Research source}
These are the washers that keep the water from leaking when the faucet is off. These can be removed by gently prying them out with a small, flat-tipped screwdriver. Also, be sure to remove the spring.^{[4]
X
Research source}
The large end of springs go in first and the seats (the rubber things) slip down over the spring. You should press firmly to seat the washer almost flush with the bottom of the socket. Wipe a small amount of silicon grease onto the rubber washer. This will help keep things lubricated through the life of the washer.^{[5]
X
Research source}
These should be removed and replaced with the corresponding washers from the parts kit. Again, apply a small amount of silicon grease to keep things rotating smoothly.^{[6]
X
Research source}
Be sure to keep the cylinder upright at the beginning, this makes it easier to get it started.
You shouldn't have to force the ball into the socket.^{[7]
X
Research source}
Keep in mind that the disc is keyed with a slot on the left side of the upright cylinder.
This will make it moderately easier to re-install the chrome-dome.
This should prove to be the most difficult part of the procedure. Remember that all of the washers, gaskets and springs are new and there is a lot less leeway in the fit of things. You may have to press down on the plastic disc with a pair of needle-nosed pliers to get enough room to get the chrome-dome threads started.
Remember that you can loosen the plastic ring inset if you need to get that last 1/4 turn.
If you get things too tight you will cause things to wear quicker than normal and you'll need to do this whole procedure again sooner than not.^{[8]
X
Research source}
Start out with the water on cold and on with about half the maximum pressure. If things look OK with the half pressure then turn the cold water on all the way. Again, check for leaks.^{[9]
X
Research source} Once you're sure things are OK, turn on the hot water.

Community Q&A

Search

Add New Question

Question

What should I do if I can't loosen the setscrew that holds the handle in place?

Community Answer

Spray it with PB Blaster and let set, then spray again. Make sure the Allen wrench is secure and turn outwards to the left. If you still can't remove it, then replace it.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 8 Helpful 12
Question

How can I replace O-rings in a Delta kitchen faucet 2255-Rblhp?

Community Answer

Look up the information booklet/sheet for the part number. Nearly every part manufactured has it's information sheets online in multiple places, and they often have the instructions for replacing and repairing parts, like the O-rings.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 6 Helpful 4
Question

How do I put a swivel onto the faucet?

Community Answer

You'll need a swivel, optional size converter, and Teflon tape. The best units combine swivel, aerator, and side twist to spray, like a shower head. Note: faucets may have different sizes, a converter looks like a washer with threads inside and out. Note direction: you are usually above the faucet, looking down, so clockwise/counterclockwise orientation for tighten/loosen may appear backwards. Step 1: Remove old end, aerator (looks like a cap with a little screen), or previous swivel that broke and part is still there; carefully clean the threads. Step 2: Use one layer of Teflon tape around the outer threads. Converter first, then swivel. Hand tighten to be very snug, and do not wrench.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 2 Helpful 0

See more answers

Ask a Question

200 characters left

Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.

Submit

Video

Tips

Remember, nothing in this whole procedure should be hard to do except removing and replacing the chrome-dome. If anything else seems hard, check your alignment.

Thanks
Helpful 12 Not Helpful 1
Store the old parts in a Ziploc bag in case of failure.

Thanks
Helpful 6 Not Helpful 1