How to Change Shower Spindles

Replacing the spindles for your bathtub or shower faucet is a simple plumbing repair job. It should take about 30 minutes to complete and it is a great DIY project for a first time homeowner or someone who is handy.

STEP 1: Gather Your Materials

- New shower spindles

- Adjustable wrench

- Water pump pliers

- Flat-head screwdriver

- Plumber's tape

- Grease

STEP 2: Turn Off the Water Supply

Locate the shutoff valves for your bathtub or shower. They are usually located under the sink or in a nearby closet. Turn the valves clockwise until the water is completely turned off.

STEP 3: Remove the Shower Handle

Use the adjustable wrench to loosen and remove the screws that hold the shower handle in place. Depending on the model of the faucet, there might be one or two screws that need to be loosened.

Once the screws are removed, use the water pump pliers to gently pry the shower handle away from the wall. Be careful not to damage the surrounding tiles.

STEP 4: Remove the Old Spindles

Inside the faucet assembly, you will see the two spindles. Use the flat-head screwdriver to loosen the screws that hold them in place. Once the screws are loosened, you should be able to pull the spindles out of the faucet.

STEP 5: Apply Plumber's Tape to New Spindles

Wrap a few layers of plumber's tape around the threads of the new spindles. This will help to create a water-tight seal and prevent leaks.

STEP 6: Install the New Spindles

Insert the new spindles into the faucet assembly and tighten the screws until they are snug.

STEP 7: Reinstall the Shower Handle

Place the shower handle back into position aligned with the spindles and tighten the screws.

STEP 8: Restore Water Supply

Turn the shutoff valves counterclockwise to restore the water supply.

STEP 9: Test the Faucet

Turn on the water and test the faucet to make sure that there are no leaks. If there are any leaks, tighten the screws or wrap more plumber's tape around the spindles.