Installation of a ceramic faucet axle box on the mixer. Troubleshooting options. Self-replacement crane box

It is impossible to imagine any water supply system for a bathroom or kitchen without a water mixer. This element of the system, which provides a certain power and temperature of the water flow, creates convenience and comfort when using water in housing. The long-term use of the mixer without the need for repairs depends on the quality of the axle box. For the reader's information, a faucet box is a device located inside the design of the mixer, which performs the function of opening and shutting off the water flow.

Today in the market of plumbing devices and fixtures there is two varieties crane box:

worm gear with rubber cuff (rubber);
ceramic crane boxes.

The rubber valve is equipped with a stem that extends during the worm gear. As a result of this action, the valve seat is closed with a rubber gasket. When the rubber seal is worn valve resonates and creates an unpleasant hum in the pipes. This gasket is made from different types rubber, which determines its durability. If necessary, it is easily replaced.

Interior mixer core with a rubber cuff has some advantages. First, the prices are low. Secondly, it is easy to replace or repair it. It is quite possible to do it yourself, without involving a specialist. This type of crane box is very common, so it is very easy to find it on the market or in a store. To replace the rubber gasket, it is very easy to cut it yourself.

The disadvantage of the worm type is short operating life axle box crane. In addition, the handwheel must be turned three to four times when opening or closing. Due to frequent friction, it wears out, and as a result, the valve has to be twisted more each time.

Crane axle box made of ceramics has a very simple design. It is made from two materials - brass and ceramics. A faucet of this type consists of two ceramic inserts with the same hole shape. One of them is fixed on the rod, and the second is motionless. To open water faucet, you only need to turn the handwheel half a turn. The bushing faucet, made of ceramic, is very sensitive to water, especially in comparison with the rubber faucet. If there are sand impurities in the water passing through it, then it is possible to protect the crane box from breakage by first placing quality water filter. Ceramic faucet box, even with prolonged use is not erased.

Main dignity faucet box with ceramic inserts:

long service life;
noiseless operation of the crane when a silencer is installed in it;
does not require effort when turning on and closing.

Flaws use of ceramic product:

high price;
due to rapid clogging with impurities in the water, it needs to install a water purification filter.

How to choose a bush crane

When replacing a crane box, choosing a new part, it is imperative to take into account its size(they measure ? and 3/8 inch). It is also necessary to pay attention to their manufacturers. Ceramic and rubber faucet boxes "under the square" are used for mixers of domestic production. This element, having on the top of the stem 20 and 24 slots, used in imported mixers.

Valves are "under the square" and "under the slot". They are made by manufacturers of plastic or metal. Before choosing and purchasing a crane box, it is necessary to measure the length of the crane and stem. If you are not competent in this matter, it is best to take an old crane box and valve (flywheel) to the store for a sample in order to avoid problems and to prevent errors. Valve and faucet can be different standard, therefore it is recommended to try on the flywheel directly in the store before making a purchase. Please note that the bolt holding the flywheel may have a different thread pitch.

When buying a new kitchen faucet or bath faucet, you can make sure which faucet box is installed in it. It is very easy to check this - just turning the flywheel. In a rubber faucet box, the valve will scroll three or four turns, and in a ceramic part - only half a turn.

Manufacturers of sanitary equipment provided a range of choices two modifications of the crane box, as well as mixers of different cost. A bushing crane with ceramic inserts is put up for sale within 600 rubles, and a rubber one costs 350 rubles on average. Since ceramic faucets are very sensitive to contaminated water, and you do not have a water filter, choose bushings with rubber gaskets to prevent various problems. After weighing all the advantages and disadvantages of the models, you can choose which type of this part you need.

Self-replacement crane box

Required Tools

In order to repair or replace the crane box yourself, first of all, you must have the required tools:

flat and Phillips screwdrivers;
pipe wrenches and wrenches;
electric drill with a slotted nozzle;
pliers
and, of course, a new axle box or a new part instead of a broken element.

Stages of replacing the crane box

Carrying out repair or replacement of the crane box is necessary start by turning off the water supply. Then we should decide what we will need to dismantle. The next step is to start removing the flywheel. To do this, unscrew the plastic cap with a screwdriver, unscrew the fixing screw and remove the flywheel, thereby open access to the crane box and stem. To remove the crane box, we will need a key, the size of which is 17 mm. Ceramic faucets sometimes have locknuts that are released with an adjustable wrench. Wrench, size 7 mm, counterclockwise unscrew the crane box under the square.

It is necessary to take into account the fact that over time bolts rust, turn sour, and it is impossible to unscrew the screw on the faucet handle, since the slots for the screwdriver are not visible. If this happens, you need to take and drill the screw head with a drill, after which it is easy to remove the axle box. But there are cases of deep rust damage to the old box and it is impossible to unscrew it. Then the thread should be lubricated rust solvents and after 15 minutes the crane box can be removed. After unscrewing the axle box, the thread, as well as the flywheel, must be cleaned of rust with a special brush so that the axle box fits snugly against the thread. A new or corrected axle box should be tightened in such a way that it is not overtightened, and also slightly undertightened, since when the flywheel is opened, it can unscrew. Turn on the water and check whether the faucet box is leaking.

Crane repair is very easy. However, despite the simplicity of such repairs, the very fact of a breakdown is unpleasant for the owner of the plumbing system. In order not to have to repair such parts too often, you should very carefully consider the purchase of a mixer choosing the best quality devices in the store. Buying good equipment guarantees you its long-term and reliable service. Therefore, choose the product very carefully, be sure to check its performance before purchasing.

Crane box replacement video

A faucet box is a mechanical device designed to regulate the flow of water. It is installed in a one-handle or two-handle "wing-type" mixer. Two types of products are used:

threaded box;
cermet construction.

Ceramic faucet box device

The structure consists of:

Jumper (body), equipped with a thread for fixing in the mixer. On the body of the product there is a hexagon designed for a wrench or adjustable wrench. Insulation is carried out with a rubber and silicone gasket.
Rotary stem (nipple)- designed to shift the movable discs that regulate the water supply. The product ends with a square or toothed (splined) head, on which the flywheel (lamb) is fixed.
Ceramic plates mounted inside the jumper. One is fixed motionless, the other has freedom of movement - rotation around a vertical axis. Made in ceramics through holes. Sealing is ensured by precise adjustment of the metal-ceramic planes to each other. The material used is aluminum oxide.

Operating principle

Adjustment of water supply is carried out by turning the flywheel (lamb). The rotational movement is transmitted through the rotary rod to the upper metal-ceramic plate.

Moving relative to the lower disk, the upper one aligns the holes, thereby opening or closing the free access of water. A full turn of the flywheel is 180°. In this position, when open, maximum water flow is ensured.

A rubber gasket is mounted under the lower end of the jumper, which ensures the clamping force of the plates to each other - due to this, it turns out hermetic connection with the mixer closed.

Pros and cons of using

Compared to its predecessor - a threaded bushing, cermet has a number of consumer properties:

Extended service life, which is ensured by high precision manufacturing of metal-ceramic locking plates, as well as increased wear resistance of the material from which they are made. An additional factor contributing to improved working conditions is the absence of excessive forces that occur when closing the tap. Such phenomena are characteristic of threaded axle boxes, where there is a need to press a rubber gasket to ensure tightness.
Ease of use, which is ensured by the complete opening of the water flow - when turning only 180 °, or, using the colloquial expression, “half a turn”. A threaded design, to obtain a similar result, will require 2-3 complete turns of the flywheel around its axis.
Correct metal-ceramic product in the course of work practically does not make a sound, - flowing water makes noise.

Flaws:

Ceramic products are very sensitive to water quality. The presence of suspended mechanical impurities, high content chemical substances, which form insoluble salts, leads to accelerated wear of the surface of the disks, as a result, the tightness is broken;
Ceramic-metal is 50–100% more expensive than threaded crane-boxes, but their price is justified by the increased service life and ease of use.

How to choose a crane box

If it is necessary to replace the crane box, it is necessary to perform a number of measures:

Recall or determine according to the documents of the mixer manufacturer and its purpose;
Determine the type of box. In a ceramic-metal product, white ceramics is visible through the side holes; in addition, there will be gaskets at the end of the fitting various shapes And different material. Threaded products are equipped only with a rubber gasket of increased thickness; silicone or rubber is used for ceramic devices;
Remember start of choke- equipped with a square or slotted head.

The external threaded part on the body (bolt), designed for fixing in the mixer, has dimensions ½ "or 3/8".

The number of splines on the head of the fitting is 20 or 24. Moreover, this type of flywheel mounting is most often used on imported mixers.

Repair and replacement

The ceramic-metal product is maintainable, it can be disassembled into separate parts and replace those that are out of order.

Causes of malfunctions

The main factors causing failure in work:

poor quality of water, which may contain solid mechanical impurities or be saturated with chemical minerals;
poor-quality manufacturing of the product;
violation of the rules for the operation of the mixer (provided in the accompanying documentation).

To reduce the negative factors from poor water quality, a filter is built into the line mechanical cleaning.

A more expensive option is a complex device for complete water purification, including chemical impurities. But this design is expensive, so it is advisable to use it for country houses using water from wells.

A malfunction of the mixer, caused by the failure of the crane box, will require repair or replacement.

Crane box repair

For restoration work, the defective product must be dismantled from the mixer.

Operating procedure:

turn off the external tap water supply to the mixer;
the decorative cap is removed from the flywheel, the fixing screw is unscrewed;
using a wrench or adjustable wrench, the main product is removed;
further, the bottom gasket is removed, the rotary rod is removed.
the damaged part is visually determined.

It may not be necessary to carry out a complete disassembly if the problems are caused by a decayed bottom gasket, replace it. More difficult - with wear of ceramic discs. This is due to the fact that it is quite difficult to find the necessary cermet - most retail outlets offer a complete ceramic crane box.

Given this factor, as well as the amount of time that will be spent searching for the necessary spare parts and repairs, it will be easier to replace the entire product.

Replacement of the entire crane box

The process of dismantling a defective product is described above. Next, you need to purchase exactly the same or interchangeable. To do this, specialized retail outlets are visited with the desired axle box, where, by visually comparing the available plumbing products, the necessary product is selected.

Installation order:

The place for a new product is wiped, possible debris and dirt are removed;
The purchased product is tried on. In case of an error in the selection, the purchase is changed to the required one;
Apply waterproof lubricant. This will facilitate installation when screwing and dismantling after a period of time;
To increase the sealing, you can additionally wrap the thread with 2-3 layers of fum-tape;
The crane box is screwed into the mixer manually;
Next, the blocked water in the riser opens;
By means of a wrench or adjustable wrench, the axle box is tightened until the water stops flowing;
The flywheel is mounted;
Crane box installed.

Tip 1. With a soured (sticky) thread, the latter can be processed chemical preparation such as WD-40. After 15–30 minutes, in most cases, the axle box can be unscrewed.

Tip 2. In the absence of a waterproof lubricant, it can be replaced with graphite.

Tip 3. Most often, crane-boxes fail at cheap mixers, about the quality of which one can say: “that it is not cheap, but cheap.”

Tip 4. It is not worth neglecting the installation of a mechanical cleaning filter, especially if water meters are installed, this will save nerves, time and finances in the future.

The plumbing in the bathroom and in the kitchen, in the general sense, represent a single plumbing system, the crown of which is a faucet. The main purpose of this device is to supply the necessary pressure, as well as mixing cold and hot water to the required temperature.

The main element of each mixer, which is responsible for the adjustment, is a crane box. It is on him that the main load lies during operation. Because of this, it is the most susceptible to breakage. It must be said right away that the process of repair or replacement is not a very complicated procedure, which allows everyone to perform restorative manipulations without the help of specialists. Nevertheless, if you have difficulties with repairs, it is better to entrust these works to a specialist who will do everything quickly and really efficiently.

Types and features of crane boxes for mixers

Before talking about the varieties, it must be emphasized that the axle box in general design the mixer acts as a locking mechanism, which carries out the process of opening / closing the water supply. It also controls the water temperature.

Despite the huge range of mixers on the construction market, which differ in design, price, installation option, all of them are divided into two main types according to the type of axle box installed:

Crane box with worm mechanism.

This type of system got its name from the rotary rod, which, when turned, presses the rubber gasket, thereby blocking the water supply. The body itself on the outside has a thread 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 shut-off valve and with reverse thread to the shaft. The box outside has a slotted or square head, on which the flywheel is mounted. Also in the head is internal thread for fixing the valve bolt.

Operation features

Worm axle boxes have been very common since Soviet times. It should be noted that almost all mixers of those years are easy to identify by the square head on which the flywheel is mounted. Most faucets these days have slotted heads.

Important! The rubber gasket of the shut-off valve is most subject to wear. The deadline for a given structural element depends on two main factors:

The first is the wear of the gasket during operation due to pressing 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 assembly, repairs may not be required so soon. In view of the foregoing, we can make a completely logical conclusion that the life of worm systems is relatively short. Experts estimate that such mixers can be used without repair for 1-5 years. Of course, such inconveniences are compensated affordable price and ease of repair.

It must be understood that the quality of the installation and the intensity of use affect the time of use of the mixer, and in particular the crane box. For example, in the bathroom, systems can last significantly longer than in the kitchen, because the system is used more often.

Ceramic crane box.

In this mechanism, the main locking unit is two ceramic plates pressed one to one with holes for water to pass through. One of them is fixed motionless, and the second can rotate, thereby displacing the holes.

The system stem is movably attached to the mixer body using internal sealing glands and a washer. A ceramic rotary disc is attached to the shaft itself. Its shape depends on specific model. The flywheel is mounted on the top. The entire structure is completed by a mating gasket with a saddle.

Operation features

Nowadays, the technology of processing artificial ceramics allows you to create systems with perfectly matched surfaces of the movement plates. At the same time, the material used in the production is not exposed to water and chemical compounds that may be in it. Due to this device of this type have long term service for at least 5 years. The only cause of failure may 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 ceramic faucet box, then in most cases it comes down to a complete replacement of the node. While you can find matching discs or records in stores, you won't get a perfect fit like the factory does. Because of this self recovery performance ceramic mixers may lead to leaks.

The process of replacing the crane box in the mixer

Even a beginner with minimal knowledge in plumbing can repair the axle box in a mixer in the kitchen or bathroom. The main task performs for everyone right choice required device. Because of this, you need to buy a new axle box in the store, taking with you a broken part. Thus, you can be 100% sure that you will buy exactly what you need. After that, you will need detailed instructions for removing and installing the part:

First of all, it is necessary to turn off the water in the house, it is better to do it directly on the riser. Only then can repair manipulations begin.

As for tools, you will need a Phillips and flat 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 can be threaded or simply snapped on like a cork.

After removing the above element, the fixing screw will become available to you. It unscrews with a screwdriver.

Next, you should carefully remove the valve, while carrying out swinging movements. Thus, you will not damage the grooves for the stem head in the flywheel itself.

In the next step, unscrew the decorative trim. This can be done with the help of pliers, having previously placed a cloth, cardboard or rubber. This will keep it attractive. appearance element.

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 a little stuck or corroded, they must be treated with a special solution or vinegar. After that, you can twist counterclockwise.

Only after all this, you can proceed with the installation of a new axle box. Must be cleaned first inner part mixer and lubricate the threads. Important! It is not recommended to strongly clamp the device, so as not to damage the gasket at the junction of the thread and the seat. It is better to use all the familiar "half-turn" rule. Tighten the axle box by hand until it stops and only after that turn the key 90 or 180 degrees.

Troubleshooting options

If during the operation of your mixer a characteristic rattle appears inside the device or an intermittent pressure of water, then this indicates a breakdown of the locking gasket. Sometimes replacement of this element is necessary in case of leakage. For repair, it is enough to remove the axle box and carefully inspect the water intake saddle. If you find cracks, shells 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 buy it in a store. It is mounted on the end of the rod or on the screw.

In case of leakage directly under the valve, the glands should be replaced. To restore the normal operation of the system, you will need to remove the mounting washer from the stem with a screwdriver. Typically, a repair kit is represented by several o-rings that need to be coated with a waterproof lubricant. Even new faucets, just bought in a store, are recommended to be checked for a sufficient amount of grease on the seals.

Now you know what types of faucet bushings are for mixers and how to replace them correctly. All of the above information will allow you to conduct your own quality repair plumbing fixtures in your home.

Types of crane boxes for mixers

Today in the market of plumbing devices and fixtures there is two varieties crane box:

worm gear with rubber cuff (rubber);

The rubber valve is equipped with a stem that extends during the worm gear. As a result of this action, the valve seat is closed with a rubber gasket. When the rubber seal is worn valve resonates and creates an unpleasant hum in the pipes. This gasket is made from different types of rubber, which determines its durability. If necessary, it is easily replaced.

The ceramic bushing crane has a very simple design. It is made from two materials - brass and ceramics. A faucet of this type consists of two ceramic inserts with the same hole shape. One of them is fixed on the rod, and the second is motionless. To open the faucet, you only need to turn the handwheel half a turn. The bushing faucet, made of ceramic, is very sensitive to water, especially in comparison with the rubber faucet. If there are sand impurities in the water passing through it, then it is possible to protect the crane box from breakage by first placing quality water filter. Ceramic faucet box, even with prolonged use is not erased.

Main dignity faucet box with ceramic inserts:

long service life;
noiseless operation of the crane when a silencer is installed in it;
does not require effort when turning on and closing.

Flaws use of ceramic product:

high price;
due to rapid clogging with impurities in the water, it needs to install a water purification filter.

How to choose a bush crane

When replacing a crane box, choosing a new part, it is imperative to take into account its size(they come in ½" and 3/8" sizes). It is also necessary to pay attention to their manufacturers. Ceramic and rubber faucet boxes "under the square" are used for mixers of domestic production. This element, having on the top of the stem 20 and 24 slots, used in imported mixers.

Valves are "under the square" and "under the slot". They are made by manufacturers of plastic or metal. Before choosing and purchasing a crane box, it is necessary to measure the length of the crane and stem. If you are not competent in this matter, it is best to take an old crane box and valve (flywheel) to the store for a sample in order to avoid problems and to prevent errors. The valve and faucet may be of different standard, so it is recommended to try on the flywheel directly in the store before making a purchase. Please note that the bolt holding the flywheel may have a different thread pitch.

When buying a new kitchen faucet or bath faucet, you can make sure which faucet box is installed in it. It is very easy to check this - just turning the flywheel. In a rubber faucet box, the valve will scroll three or four turns, and in a ceramic part - only half a turn.

Self-replacement crane box

Required Tools

In order to repair or replace the crane box yourself, first of all, you must have the required tools:

flat and Phillips screwdrivers;
pipe wrenches and wrenches;
electric drill with a slotted nozzle;
pliers
and, of course, a new axle box or a new part instead of a broken element.

Stages of replacing the crane box

Carrying out repair or replacement of the crane box is necessary start by turning off the water supply. Then we should decide what we will need to dismantle. The next step is to start removing the flywheel. To do this, unscrew the plastic cap with a screwdriver, unscrew the fixing screw and remove the flywheel, thereby open access to the crane box and stem. To remove the crane box, we will need a key, the size of which is 17 mm. Ceramic faucets sometimes have locknuts that are released with an adjustable wrench. With a wrench, size 7 mm, counterclockwise unscrew the crane box under the square.