Mixer shower tap problem

[Twee]

Hi,
We have a shower mixer tap that suddenly decided to stop the flow of hot water tap and shower (except for a dribble) - our water system is a direct feed combi boiler - The cold flows as normal - as does the hot at the basin.
I have tried to check the washer - but the tap tops appear to be held on with tiny screws that a screwdriver "rounds off"
I think that the washer is knackered - the tap feels "lumpy" when turning it ...
The tap is "mounted" on two L shaped feed pipes with large nuts securing the main body of the tap.
I have tried to clear any airlocks - by covering the outlet when turning the tap on - but this resulted in a face of hot water
The tap looks similar to Buy Chrome Victorian Bath/Shower Mixer. at Argos.co.uk - Your Online Shop for .
Any advice welcome

Twee

 

[stevetheplumber]

sounds like its time for new mixer

 

[Alanka]

It may be possible - without removing the tap top - to unscrew the covering dome sufficiently to get a spanner (preferably a 'thin' one) onto the nut holding the tap mechanism in place. Then you can access the washer and maybe see what is wrong (probably a jammed or perished washer).

If you really cannot unscrew the screw, you could always drill it out, then tap a fresh (bigger) thread with a new (bigger) screw to secure it in place again.

Or if none of this works, it may - as Steve says - be time for a new mixer!

 

[Twee]

OK Bought replacement mixer from Argos
(Tried to remove covers on old tap - insufficient space)
Fitted and found that "legs" were needed too
Can't stop hot feed connection from leaking
Used PTFE tape (around 5 layers)
Any suggestions ?
Mastic ?
Why are these things so difficult ?

 

[WHPES]

By hot feed I presume you mean the nut which connects onto the tap tails.

If so, use a new washer as the old fibre one will be compressed and not seal again. Should not use PTFE on this.

 

[Twee]

Thanks - Yes, I mean the connection between the bottom of the tap and the inlet pipe - There was no fibre washer in the kit
I am surprised that the cold doesn't leak as well

 

[WaterTight]

It will. Washer them both.

 

[Twee]

OK Sorted - except for the base of the tap - the hole left in the bath, by the old tap was slightly larger - I have tightened up the nuts as tight as I dare (the tap IS firmly fixed - but there is a slight gap under it) - this leaks water slightly - I need some silicon sealant and looking at Screwfix - there is plenty of choice - I think clear is best - but what brand ?
I don't really want to break the seals already achieved by removing the tap body and squirting sealant under it - so need some "liquid" sealant that will flow under and around the <1mm crack ....
Any suggestions ?

 

[WHPES]

Do you mean that the legs do not completely cover the taphones in the bath?

Get a white silicone with mould inhibitor in it. Take the tap off the bath, clean and squirt silicone round the base of the legs, position the legs as best you can over the holes so you can see as littl of the hole as possible. Take the rubber washer supplied and run a bead of silicone around one side and place it onto the stem under the bath, then tighten the nut onto it. Surplus silicone should squeeze out and rub off with a dry kitchen roll.