How Do I Install A Ceramic Disc Cartridge For A Mini / Wide Spread Lavatory Faucet?

This article will explain how to install a ceramic disc cartridge for a two-handle faucet.

Please note that the images are for reference only. The product shown in this article may differ from yours, but the information below is still relevant.

To install a ceramic disc cartridge, you must:

1. Remove the old cartridge.
2. Install the new cartridge.
3. Test for leaks.

Please Note: Before doing any work on your faucet, please shut off the water supply for the faucet.
Once the water is turned off, you are ready to begin.


Step 1 – Remove the old cartridge

• After you've removed the handle, remove any handle adaptors that might be installed on the cartridge stem.

• Using a pair of adjustable pliers, remove the lock nut.

• If the cartridge is installed without a lock nut, you may have a new style of cartridge that requires a sleeve wrench to remove the cartridge. If this is the case, use the sleeve wrench to unscrew the cartridge from the faucet body. if you are unable to locate the sleeve wrench from your original faucet box. 

• Hold the stem of the cartridge and pull it up until the cartridge is completely removed from the faucet body.

Step 2 – Install the new cartridge

• If your faucet has the new style of cartridge assembly and requires a sleeve wrench to install the cartridge, slide the cartridge into the faucet body and use the sleeve wrench to tighten the cartridge onto the faucet.

• If your faucet uses a locking nut, re-install the lock nut with a pair of adjustable pliers. To avoid over-tightening the lock nut, hand tighten the lock nut and then use the adjustable pliers to apply a quarter turn. Approximately 10-14 lbs of torque are required to properly install the lock nut.

• Re-install the handle adaptor (if applicable).

Step 3 – Test for leaks

• Once all of the parts are re-installed, turn on the water supply for the faucet and turn the faucet on and off. If you notice that water is leaking from the cartridge assembly, tighten the lock nut and test again.