How to fix shower leaking from head?

[jd1885]

My shower has been leaking from the shower head. I ruled out the shower head itself, as the leak continues even when it’s removed. I’m assuming the issue is with the tap.

I removed the tap handle and unscrewed the cartridge, expecting to replace the rubber washer. However, I found a white plastic piece inside, and it looks like there’s a black washer-type component stuck to it (red box in the image). The problem is, I can’t seem to remove this white plastic part to inspect or replace the washer.

Has anyone dealt with something like this before? What is this white plastic piece, and how can I safely remove it to fix the leak?

If you can direct me to Bunnings product link to replace this washer, that would be really helpful.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

[Noyade]

Evening @jd1885 

"What is this white plastic piece?"

That's the washer - with the black rubber seal attached.

Try a pair of long nosed pliers - and pull on the stem to remove it. It will come out.

If the rubber seal remains, it's just a matter of hooking it out with something like a metal scribe or an O-ring remover.

Keep us informed of your progress.

That is a lotta silicone?

Cheers!

[JacobZ]

Hi @jd1885,

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community, and thank you for your question.

That looks like it is the tap valve, which sits at the bottom of the spindle. Did you remove a spindle?

As @Noyade has mentioned, you should be able to grasp it with some long-nose pliers and pull it out fairly easily. As you would be replacing it, I wouldn't worry too much if you damage it a little bit, as long as it is intact enough to compare with a new tap valve.

Once removed, head instore to grab a replacement tap valve or a whole new spindle for reinstall.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob