In the general sense, the plumbing in the bathroom and kitchen represents a single plumbing system, the crown of which is the mixer. The main purpose of this device is to supply the required pressure, as well as mix cold and hot water to the required temperature.
The main element of each mixer, which is responsible for adjustment, is the faucet axle. It bears the main load during operation. Because of this, it is most susceptible to breakdown. It must be said right away that the repair or replacement process is not a very complicated procedure, which allows everyone to carry out restoration operations without the assistance of specialists. Still, if you have difficulties with repairs, it is better to entrust this work to a specialist who will do everything quickly and really efficiently.
Types and features of faucet axle boxes for mixers
Before talking about the varieties, it is necessary to emphasize that the axle box in the overall design of the mixer acts as a locking mechanism, which carries out the process of opening/closing the water supply. It can also be used to adjust the water temperature.
Despite the huge range of mixers on the construction market, which differ in design, price, and installation options, they are all divided into two main types based on the type of axlebox installed:
- Crane axle box with worm mechanism.
This type of system gets its name from the rotating rod, which, when turned, presses the rubber gasket, thereby cutting off the water supply. The housing itself has a thread on the outside for mounting in the mixer itself.
On the top there are edges for tightening with a wrench. These devices are also divided into two types: with guides for the shut-off valve and with a return thread to the shaft. The axle box has a splined or square head on the outside, on which the flywheel is mounted. The head also has an internal thread for attaching a valve bolt.
Features of operation
Worm axle boxes have been very common since Soviet times. It should be noted that almost all mixers of those years can be easily identified by the square head on which the flywheel is mounted. Nowadays, most faucets have slotted heads.
Important! The rubber gasket of the shut-off valve is the most susceptible to wear. The final life of this structural element depends on two main factors:
- The first is wear of the gasket during operation due to pressure against the water intake saddle. You can reduce the damage by grinding the saddle.
- Another criterion is the material from which the gasket is made. Not all types of rubber are equally resistant to chemical compounds that may be in water. In most cases, it is the impurities of salts or metals that lead to its destruction.
It should also be noted that oil seals can fail for the same reasons. Due to the abundant lubrication of the unit, repairs may not be required so soon. Taking into account all of the above, we can make a completely logical conclusion that the service life of worm-worm systems is relatively short. Experts estimate that such faucets can be used without repair for 1-5 years. Of course, such inconveniences are compensated by the affordable price and ease of repair.
It is necessary to understand that the time of use of the mixer and, in particular, the faucet axle box is influenced by the quality of installation and intensity of use. For example, systems in a bathroom can last significantly longer than in a kitchen because the system is used more often.
- Ceramic crane axle box.
In this mechanism, the main locking unit is two ceramic plates pressed against each other with holes for water to pass through. One of them is fixed motionless, and the second can be rotated, thereby displacing the holes.
The system rod is movably attached to the mixer body using internal sealing seals and washers. A ceramic rotary disk is attached to the shaft itself. Its shape depends on the specific model. A flywheel is installed on the top. The entire structure is completed by a connecting gasket with a saddle.
Features of operation
Nowadays, artificial ceramic processing technology makes it possible to create systems with perfectly matched surfaces of the mechanism plates. At the same time, the material used in production is not exposed to water and chemical compounds that may be in it. Due to this, devices of this type have a long service life, which is at least 5 years. The only cause of failure can be sand particles in the water, which lead to jamming of the mechanism. To protect the mixer, it is recommended to install special cleaning filters.
As for the repair of a ceramic crane axle box, in most cases it comes down to a complete replacement of the unit. Although you can find matching discs or records in stores, you won't be able to get a perfect fit like you can at the factory. Because of this, independent restoration of the functionality of ceramic faucets can lead to leaks.
The process of replacing the faucet axle box in the mixer
Even a beginner with minimal knowledge of plumbing can repair the axle box in a faucet in a kitchen or bathroom. The main task for everyone is the correct choice of the necessary device. Because of this, you need to buy a new axle box in the store, taking the broken part with you. Thus, you can be 100% sure that you will buy exactly what you need. After this, you will need detailed instructions for removing and installing the part:
- First of all, it is necessary to shut off the water in the house; it is better to do this directly at the riser. Only after this can repair operations begin.
- Regarding tools, you will need a Phillips and flat-head screwdriver, a pipe and adjustable wrench, a knife and pliers.
- Initially, using a screwdriver, you must remove the decorative cap, which is installed in the center of the valve. It may be threaded or simply snapped on like a plug.
- After removing the above element, the mounting screw will become available to you. It unscrews with a screwdriver.
- Next, you should carefully remove the valve, while performing a rocking motion. This way, you will not damage the grooves for the rod head in the flywheel itself.
- Having carried out all the above manipulations, the upper part of the axle box will become available to you, on which there will be special notches for an adjustable or open-end wrench. If the joints are slightly stuck or corroded, they must be treated with a special solution or vinegar. After this, you can twist it counterclockwise.
- Only after all this can you begin to install a new axle box. First you need to clean the inside of the faucet and lubricate the threads. Important! It is not recommended to clamp the device too hard to avoid damaging the gasket at the junction of the thread and the seat. It’s better to use the familiar “half-turn” rule. Tighten the axle box manually until it stops and only then turn the key 90 or 180 degrees.
Troubleshooting options
If during operation of your mixer there is a characteristic grinding noise inside the device or intermittent water pressure, this indicates a breakdown of the shut-off gasket. Sometimes replacement of this element is necessary in case of leakage. For repairs, it is enough to remove the axle box and carefully inspect the water intake saddle. If you find cracks, holes or chips, it is better to replace the entire core. If no such defects are found, it is enough to replace the worn gasket. You can cut it yourself or purchase it in a store. It is attached to the end of the rod or to a screw.
If there is a leak directly under the valve, the seals should be replaced. To restore normal operation of the system, you will need to remove the fastening washer from the rod with a screwdriver. Typically, the repair kit consists of several o-rings that need to be coated with waterproof lubricant. Even new faucets, just bought in a store, are recommended to check for a sufficient amount of lubricant on the seals.
Now you know what types of faucet axle boxes there are for mixers and how to replace them correctly. All of the above information will allow you to carry out high-quality repairs of plumbing equipment in your home on your own.
The mixer itself is a static device and can serve for a long time without mechanical damage. The main problem that forces you to think about its maintenance is the wear and tear of the water shutoff system. Most often, repairing the faucet axle box of the mixer or replacing it completely helps solve such issues.
Modifications of the crane axle box device
Modern faucet locking mechanisms can be divided into three types:
- Axle boxes using a worm mechanism;
- Half-turn valves based on precision machined ceramic plates;
- Systems using ball switches.
Classic axle box with worm gear
For an experienced technician, repairing a crane axle box with a rubber gasket can be done in almost any case. Its correct operation depends on the quality of the replacement parts and the clearances between the worm gear parts. But it is precisely such mechanisms that are subject to rapid wear. It is caused by both friction of metal components and systematic destruction of the seal and gasket. Therefore, most manufacturers are inclined to produce alternative modifications that ensure trouble-free operation for a longer time.
Ball Valves
Ball valves are created without the use of axle boxes; therefore, in fact, their maintenance is limited only to cleaning and replacing the cartridge. However, their reliability and versatility allows the technology to remain in a leading position in the industry.
Half-turn system
As for such a service as repairing crane axle boxes with ceramic plates, it is quite in demand precisely because the reliability of these mechanisms is appreciated by many. Half-turn taps did not appear yesterday, immediately becoming an attractive replacement for tight and inconvenient worm mechanisms. They allow you to turn off the water almost at lightning speed, without any effort, and also quickly, but at the same time smoothly control the pressure. It is also pleasantly pleasing that they are produced with different diameters, as well as thread pitches. Thus, they can be installed instead of outdated mechanisms.
Repairing a crane axlebox made of ceramics, in essence, also comes down to replacing it. The main parts of the shut-off valve are ceramic plates, the perfectly processed surfaces of which act as curtains blocking access to the water supply system. To repair a ceramic crane axle box, service personnel must perform the following operations:
— Shut off the water supply;
— Remove the decorative plugs on the mixer (at the same time getting rid of factors interfering with the work);
— Remove the half-turn module and, if necessary, clean the plates from deposits of heavy fractions;
— Replace the damaged module, having first selected a suitable modification or install a cleaned axlebox, if it can continue to function.
Most faucet repairs are carried out in the order indicated above. And the normal functioning of the system in the future largely depends on a qualified approach to all necessary measures. After all, many of us still remember inadequately humming taps, after a visit from a regular plumber, and the constant noise of falling drops, which could only be gotten rid of by plugging something into our ears.
In fact, the same noisy faucet is the result of illiteracy or carelessness of the master. Poor quality or incorrectly installed gaskets led to such incidents. So how can you avoid these problems now if you still need to repair the crane axle box?
- There is no need to look for a master from the “gateway”, trying to save money;
- Inexpensive parts are not always of poor quality, but savings should be backed by guarantees;
- Using the services of an official service, you can always make claims regarding the poor quality of the work performed.
Even if you think you can fix the crane axle box yourself, don’t rush to grab a dusty tool chest or run to your neighbor to get the necessary keys. Consider whether you have sufficient experience and knowledge. After all, rash actions can easily turn a faucet capable of serving for a long time into a useless piece of hardware, or simply cost you a lot of money by throwing out unnecessary parts. Therefore, try to correctly assess the situation and allow the crane axle box to be repaired or replaced, if this is not possible, by those who will definitely achieve the required result.
The kitchen faucet is perhaps the most used device in the house. And, accordingly, breakdowns often occur with it. The reason that it allows water to pass through when closed may be the failure of the faucet axle box for the mixer, which, in order to avoid unnecessary costs, can be repaired with your own hands.
Crane axle box: description and purpose
What is a crane box? This is a small but very important part of the mixer, with the help of which water, hot or cold, is supplied and closed. The basis of the valve axlebox is a metal rod and sealed gaskets. The latter can be of two types: rubber or with movable ceramic plates. Based on this, there are two main types of crane axle boxes - ceramic and those with rubber inserts.
Two types of crane axle boxes: with ceramic gaskets and rubber
Ceramic crane axlebox is considered the most reliable. Thanks to it, you can open the water in half a revolution of the mixer handwheel. The basis of the design is a frame with two ceramic plates with holes fixed on it. These plates are located in special recesses. When the tap is turned, the holes align or diverge, respectively, either allowing water to pass through or blocking it.
A crane axle box with rubber inserts that wear out quickly is less reliable. And in order for water to come out of the tap, you need to make many turns of the valve. The part consists of a worm rod attached to the flywheel on one side, while the other side is limited by a rubber gasket. The principle of operation is simple - a rubber insert shuts off the water supply and coordinates the flow force.
Repairing ceramic crane axle box
A ceramic faucet axle that has become unusable can be repaired by purchasing the necessary parts, or by replacing it completely. Moreover, experts advise the latter option, which will take less time.
Reasons for repair may be the following:
- The ceramic plates are worn out. Their breakdown occurs infrequently, and replacing individual plates is a complex and time-consuming operation; it is much easier to buy a whole part and install it.
- Foreign objects have entered the space between the plates. In order to reduce such cases to a minimum, it is advisable to install devices for purifying water from impurities.
- The thread between the rod and the body of the valve axlebox has been developed. In this case, the entire part changes completely.
Before you begin repairing or replacing the faucet box, you need to turn off the water supply in your apartment or house and prepare the necessary minimum tools: screwdrivers (flat and Phillips), pliers, gas and spanner wrenches.
Preparation for repair
First, you need to remove the flywheel from the crane axle box. To get to it, remove the colored decorative plug from the faucet valve. Next, remove the flywheel by pulling it up. There is a bolt under the flywheel, which can be removed to remove the valve. Often, this requires the use of force, since water is constantly in contact with the parts of the mixer, and an oxide forms on the metal, which holds the parts together better than any glue.
After removing the valve, the first thing we do is clean the threads and flywheel. Then unscrew the decorative insert of the faucet using a socket wrench with a 17mm head.
We remove the crane axle box step by step
At this stage, access to the axle box is already available. Using an adjustable wrench counterclockwise, holding the mixer, unscrew the valve axle. After this, be sure to clean the threads of the mixer, for which you can use a cord brush.
Next, if you plan to replace the ceramic axle box, then we do it in the reverse order and with the utmost care. The screws should be tightened delicately to prevent the ceramic plates from cracking. The new axlebox will snap into place without any problems if the threads have been cleaned correctly.
Tip: the threads of the faucet axlebox should be treated with waterproof lubricant so that next time it can be removed without problems.
If there is no need to replace the entire crane axle box, then it can be repaired.
Situation 1: gasket wear
Wear of the ceramic gasket in the faucet box
Almost all problems that lead to leaks are caused by wear of the silicone gasket. If such a circumstance occurs and the gasket seems to have become “stuck” in one place, it can be replaced. Or "repair". The mechanism of operation is as follows: unscrew the valve axle from the tap and increase the height of the gasket. To do this, apply a thin layer of silicone on it. Then we return the axle box to its place.
Situation 2: foreign elements getting between the plates
Any foreign particles, for example, grains of sand, falling between the plates, violate the tightness of the axlebox and lead to leakage. Here we proceed as follows: unscrew the valve axle and disassemble it. We thoroughly clean the ceramic plates and treat them with a water-resistant lubricant. Next, we return the axle box to its place.
Important: ceramic plates must never be turned over during repair work! Because during their work they got used to each other.
Situation 3: chips on the surface of ceramic plates
In this case, increasing the height will not help. The way out of the situation is to replace both plates, but in case of minor damage, grinding them is also possible. This can be done with a simple pencil lead (necessarily soft), then the plates should be rubbed in.
Ceramic gasket chipped in the faucet box
Situation: erasing the plastic washer
Abrasion of the washer causes the silicone gasket to press on the ceramic plates with less force, and they do not press against each other properly. The solution is to place an additional sealant under the gasket (for example, a layer of electrical tape) or replace the plastic washer.
How to repair a crane axle box with rubber inserts
Repairing such a part in most cases means replacing the rubber gasket. To do this, you need to disassemble the tap according to the scheme described above and unscrew the axle box. Then we change the gasket and assemble the faucet. It will not be superfluous to clean all parts and threads.
Instructions for removing the rubber gasket from the crane axle box
Tip: before you go to the store to buy new parts, do not forget to take the broken crane axle box with you. Sellers will help you choose the right spare parts, while it’s easy to make a mistake yourself, for example, with the diameter of the gasket.
If there is a leaking faucet in your home, do not panic and call plumbers to your home. Repairing the crane axle box or replacing it can be easily done with your own hands. This way you can significantly save your budget and feel like you are in charge of the situation.
This material will be useful to those who want to restore the crane axle box with their own hands, making it almost eternal.
Of course, nothing lasts forever in this world, but we change ordinary crane axle boxes maximum once every six months, about once every 3-6 months. What happens: the faucet box begins to let water through - you close the tap, but the water still drips in. This means that the crane axlebox is failing. To repair it you will need these copper washers:
They have a size of M10*14, that is, their internal diameter is 10 mm, and their external diameter is 14 mm. The thickness is 1 mm. You can buy them both online and in offline stores, but there the price for one such puck can be up to 10 times more. In China, 100 pieces cost about 500 rubles at the time of ordering, that is, 5 rubles per piece; in the store, price tags can reach up to 50 rubles per piece. With the help of such washers, we restore old valve axle boxes, and we will now tell you how we do this.
Remove the faucet from the mixer
Here is our mixer, the hot water has already been turned off, only cold water remains. If the tap on the mixer is closed all the way, water still drips. We remove the lamb and take out the faulty crane axle box.
Of course, you won’t be able to find the cause visually, because the problem lies inside. There is a fluoroplastic ring there, into which the rod rests. The ring is ground off, and two ceramic plates, usually adjacent to each other and blocking the water, begin to let this water pass through each other.
We disassemble the crane axle box
Remove the silicone seal.
There are many ways to solve this problem, but almost all of them give temporary results. You can additionally place a rubber ring under the silicone ring. Due to this, the clamping force on the ceramic plates will increase, the water will stop flowing, but the effect will be temporary. You can wrap electrical tape, but only our method with a copper washer really helps.
Without much difficulty we remove the retaining ring - the main thing is that it does not burst from old age.
We push the rod in the opposite direction.
There are two rubber seals and a fluoroplastic ring through which the rod itself rests directly on the body.
This ring is ground off and the rod gradually begins to come out.
Naturally, the pressure on the ceramic plates weakens. No one tried to do anything with this fluoroplastic ring - they cut it out, grind it out, but it all falls apart.
Instead of a fluoroplastic ring, we put a copper washer - and then we assemble the valve axle box back.
Assembly nuances
First: there are several protrusions in the body and, as you can see, the outer diameter of the copper washer is larger than that of the fluoroplastic ring, so some difficulties may arise with installing the washer, although these difficulties are quite surmountable. The second nuance is the rubber seals of the seal. They also require maintenance.
They are responsible for ensuring that water does not come from under the lamb itself. These seals can wear down or tear. Under them there is often dirt that needs to be removed and cleaned, otherwise water can also leak through it, despite the fact that the seals themselves are in good working order. If these seals have become worn down over time, you can wrap a little fum tape under them. Additionally, we use the following lubricant:
This is a lubricant for washing machine seals. It is purchased in a specialized store that sells various spare parts for washing machines. This lubricant is not washed out, it is not afraid of water, but at the same time it protects the rubber - the rubber rings will be protected, and the contact between them and the rod will be much better.
When we turn the faucet, the rod rotates along with the rubber seal, which rubs against the walls of the body itself. Accordingly, lubricant prolongs the service life of parts, and, as practice has shown, if you do not apply lubricant under the ring, but only anoint it on the outside, then water can flow through the lamb.
You need to apply a little lubricant on top, since it is in the upper part that these seals will rub against the body of the crown itself. Now these elastic bands will easily slide along the body.
Assembling the crane axle box
The copper washer is installed, install the rod, and pull it towards you. Now, thanks to the fact that there is a copper washer 1 mm thick, the rod does not come out of the body.
We install the retaining ring. There are cases when these fluoroplastic rings can be of varying thickness depending on the crane axle box - 1.5-2 mm. In such cases, not one copper washer is installed, but two. If there are too many two, and the locking ring cannot be inserted because the rod is too recessed, then the second washer is slightly sharpened with a regular needle file.
We put back the ceramic plates and silicone seal.
Installing the faucet on the mixer
We have cold water on, but hot water is still off. We did not install the lamb to see if water would flow directly through the rod itself. We open the tap and the water comes out. Let's close.
Nothing drips from the tap. There is also no leakage on the crown itself.
This is how you can easily and simply not only restore a crown, but also make it almost eternal. Fluoroplastic wears off under load, but the copper washer does not, and if it does, it does so slowly that the crane axle box can be used by several generations of users.
All rights to the video belong to: China at SHOPe
Is the faucet dripping again? Ceramics didn’t help and the old problems returned? Let's see what can be done then. We have already looked at what a ceramic crane axle box is.
Like any mechanism, the crane axlebox can fail. Let's look at the typical problems that arise in taps and mixers that use ceramic faucet axle boxes.
How to install or remove a crane axle box
Crane axle boxes with a working ceramic pair replaced valve mechanisms as a more reliable and durable locking element. They fit perfectly into existing taps and mixers.
The smartest thing to do is remove the old axle box and buy a new one in the store based on its size. It is worth choosing the diameter and height of the crane axle box, and you also need to choose the same seat for the crane wing.
Before installing a new faucet box, the faucet seat should be cleaned of scale and mineral deposits. If possible, sand and polish the saddle.
A thin layer of waterproof lubricant must be applied to the threads of the faucet axlebox - this will simplify the task of removing the product after some time for repair or replacement. To improve the insulation of the faucet box, you can also wrap one or two layers of sealing tape on the threads.
If possible, screw in the valve axle by hand. There is no need to clamp with a key at this stage. Open the water in the riser. Use a wrench to tighten the valve axle until it stops letting water through. Further tightening is not recommended as it may damage the lower sealing gasket in the valve seat.
With this installation, you will definitely not damage the sealing gasket, but after a while it will be necessary to “tighten” the valve axle.
There is nothing difficult about installing the decorative nut and flywheel. The replacement was completed successfully.
Gaskets - yes or not
Ceramic valve axle boxes, like valve taps, use a gasket system. It is modified, but still present. More than 90% of problems with leakage of ceramic faucet axle boxes are caused by the wear of these gaskets.
Removing the valve axle box and replacing or restoring the seal is not difficult. Repairing a crane axle box is easier than it might seem at first glance.
The locking element is sealed with two gaskets. The first seals the valve axle in the mixer seat. The second presses the upper rotating ceramic plate against the lower plate.
Types of gaskets, methods of replacement and repair
The gasket in the valve seat ensures a reliable fit and sealing of the valve box. Under water pressure, it can “sag” or simply wear out over time, which leads to a leak. It should be noted that the valve seat must also be free of cracks and large holes, otherwise the gasket will not be able to completely seal the connection. Some models of crane axle boxes use a metal ring spring to secure the gasket. Over time, it rusts and breaks with all the consequences.
To solve this problem, the product should be selected with a non-metallic element, for example, using plastic rings.
If a problem occurs, the gasket should be replaced in this area. In this case, you don’t have to disassemble the crane axle box; you just need to unscrew it from the crane saddle. For a quick repair, you can unscrew the valve axle and apply a thin layer of silicone to the gasket. When the silicone dries, screw the faucet axle into place; the additional height of the gasket can also cover small sinks and burrs of the faucet seat. It is not recommended to apply a layer of silicone directly to the faucet seat, as the faucet may be damaged.
The second gasket, made of fluoroplastic, polypropylene or other material with similar properties, is designed to improve the pressure of the upper ceramic rotary plate to the lower one. This gasket experiences maximum loads during operation of the crane, which leads to its failure. As a result, it does not press the rotating plate sufficiently, and a gap is formed in the ceramic pair through which water begins to flow.
Depending on the manufacturer of the crane box, the thickness of this gasket is 0.5-1mm. To replace it, you need to disassemble the axle box and inspect the gasket for damage.
One of the quick repair methods is to “increase” the height of the rotating ceramic plate. You need to stick 2 balls of electrical tape on the top ceramic plate. This will be enough to press the ceramic pair well.
Ceramic plates - problems with them
In some cases, a problem may arise with the locking element itself - the ceramic plates. The distance between the plates is very small and intermolecular interaction occurs between them. If a solid particle gets between the plates, this will lead to depressurization of the valve box and, as a result, its leakage.
In this case, it is enough to disassemble the valve axle box, clean the ceramic plates and reassemble it, having previously lubricated the plates with a waterproof lubricant with high viscosity. Manufacturers do not have specific recommendations for the use of certain lubricants, so you can use the one you have on hand.
When repairing a crane axlebox, you should take into account that the plates are ground in on one side; you cannot turn them over or turn them around, this will only aggravate the situation, and instead of a repaired crane axlebox, you will have to rebuild it again or buy a new one.
Scores and chips may also form on the surface of the plates. In such cases, to fix the problem, you need to buy a repair kit and replace the plates themselves.
In a budget option, without replacing the ceramic pair, you can try to polish it. The easiest way is to rub a ceramic pair with a soft pencil lead and rub them in. Or you can take a more professional approach. To do this, you will need silicon carbide or aluminum oxide powder (the material from which ceramic pairs are made) with a grain size of 1200. Such material is available in workshops that specialize in sharpening tools.