How to Fix a Frost-Proof Yard Hydrant

Shut off the main water source before repairing the hydrant. Turn the hydrant on and allow any water to drain out.

Apply a liberal amount of penetrating lubricant to the joint between the head assembly of the hydrant and the riser pipe. Place one pipe wrench with a breaker bar on the head assembly and another on the riser pipe.

Hold the wrench on the riser pipe firm while leveraging the head assembly counterclockwise off the pipe. If the head assembly refuses to budge, add penetrating lubricant to the joint and let it set for 15 to 30 minutes, and then attempt to remove the assembly again.

Pull the connector rod out of the riser pipe. Unscrew the old plunger off the connector rod. Screw the new plunger onto the rod and reinsert it into the riser pipe.

Apply a small amount of silicone grease to the threads atop the riser pipe. Thread the head assembly onto the riser pipe by hand, then use the two pipe wrenches to screw the head assembly firmly onto the pipe.

Readjust the throw of the operating handle with a combination wrench. The plunger should fully engage the valve body at the bottom of the riser when you push the handle to the closed position.

Turn on the main water source. Observe the hydrant for leaks while it is closed. Open the hydrant and look for any leaks near the joint between the head assembly and riser pipe, as well as in other areas of the hydrant.