How do I remove the locking nut in the kitchen water tap knob?

[dmngu9]

I tried to replace the water tap knob as shown in the picture. However, i struggle to remove the locking nut with the screw driver. I wonder what is the right tool to loosen up the locking nut?

[JacobZ]

Hi @dmngu9,

A warm welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community, it is fantastic to have you with us.

Unfortunately, you can't buy the tool by itself, but this little spanner in the Kinetic Spout And Handle Repair Kit is what you are looking for.

The two prongs go into the grooves on the locking nut, allowing you to rotate it out.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob

[dmngu9]

thanks @JacobZ . I bought the tools but the prongs are not long enough to reach the grooves on the locking nuts. The shaft of the spindle is abit long, probably close to 1cm.

Is there any spanner that has longer prongs?

[EricL]

Hello @dmngu9 

Another option is to use a socket set Craftright 1/4" & 3/8" Drive Socket Set - 40 Piece or if you are familiar with the size of the nut you can use just a single socket. You can also try to use a flat head screwdriver and see if you can turn just one side of the nut. If it comes loose you should be able to remove it. The nut that is suppose to be used for your spindle is the tall brass one not the low level one.

Let me call on our experienced members @Dave-1, @Nailbag and @Noyade for their recommendations 

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[Dave-1]

Good Evening @dmngu9 

I have used a flat bladed screwdriver, where the head of the screwdrivers blade fits nicely into the slot, then I turn it by hand. Sometimes it may take a few goes back and fourthing between the two slots. I try and not put too much force into it as brass is a soft metal and I never want it to burr.

That said I have used a small flat head diagonally on the slot of the nut and a small hammer to gently tap the locking nut off. (I think it was counterclockwise but am not sure atm)

Dave

[Nailbag]

Hi @dmngu9 

Start with spraying the top area with something like RP7 or WD40. Let it rest for a few minutes then use fine pointed nose pliers to hopefully turn the nut anticlockwise.

Nailbag

[Noyade]

I had something similar in my shower up until a few years ago @dmngu9 

With a small screwdriver you pry out that red hot water plastic indicator - mine was just a pull out, push in piece.

(There were caps that fitted into the above space with the traditional H and C).

Once removed - you will/should now have the diameter space to fit a socket, as @EricL mentioned. I think mine were 12mm.

Yours may be different - but worth a try?

Cheers.

[Dave-1]

Good Morning @Noyade 

Well I just learnt something new! I hadnt even considered trying to remove that red ring

Dave

[EricL]

Hi @Noyade 

That's a gold star to you sir for remembering to remove the red ring indicator. 

Eric