I have a Mondella 3 way tap that's about 3 years old. It came loose a few days ago and now won't screw back into the base. I've tried different size grub screws and they won't screw in. Even the smallest size seems to be too big for the hole at the back of the tap base. I've been trying with an Allen key with no luck. I took the tap to Reece plumbing and they weren't much help. They said it may be because the tap is cracked. Took it to Bunnings and they don't really know either. Prior to it coming loose it wasn't continuously leaking and the spout wasn't out of the base but now that it's loose water leaks out of the base and can only turn the tap on very gently. I don't have 00's to spend on a plumber but also not very handy. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
Hello @Belenna
Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about your sink mixer.
Please note that plumbing work needs to be completed by a licensed professional for safety and compliance.
Looking at the photo you posted it appears that the spout is not properly seated which could be the cause for the grub screw not locking in properly. I propose applying some https://www.bunnings.com.au/hydroseal-15g-tap-lubricant_p0657642 on both O rings of the spout and pushing the spout back into position. I then suggest trying to install the grub screw again.
However, should the grub screw fail to anchor again, I can only recommend changing the tap for a new one. Please note that your tapware can only be changed by a licensed plumber.
I also recommend checking out the stores Tapware & Shower Head Installation Service, especially if you are looking for a professional to install your tapware.
let me call on our experienced members @Dave-1, @Noyade and @TedBear for their recommendations.
If you need further assistance, please let us know.
Eric
Good Evening @Belenna
:/ That nylon ring in your first pic concerns me with the long fine crack in it, The discoloration where the base of the grub screw screws into the nylon also makes me think that it has potentially been over tightened somewhere in the past. Because of the wear on it even if you screw in the correct sized grub screw I think the tap head itself will still want to rock and then that allows water to get past the O ring type seal we can see. Its a theory at the moment :) I hope I am wrong. You could look at a new tap and see if the same model has the same sized hole for the grub screw in it? That way you can tell if its been over tightened in the past.
Dave
"I've tried different size grub screws and they won't screw in." - @Belenna
If it were mine - I'd be hating it by now, drilling out and tapping that grub screw size to whatever I want. Even make my own grub screw from a bolt.
Should that fail - new tap.
