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Replace the Bonnet Packing (for Stem Leaks) — Replace Worn Faucet Parts

Beginner

Part of project

How to Fix a Leaky Outdoor Faucet: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide · Step 4 of 4

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In this video

If water leaks from around the handle stem when the faucet is on, the packing inside the bonnet nut needs replacement. First, remove the handle by unscrewing the center screw. Slide the bonnet nut off the valve stem. Use a small pick or screwdriver to completely dig out the old, degraded packing material from inside the bonnet nut. Once clean, insert a new, correctly-sized packing washer into the empty bonnet nut.

Goal: Stop leaks from the faucet stem

  • The old packing can be brittle and difficult to remove. Be patient and use a small pick to carefully scrape it all out to ensure a clean surface for the new packing.

Used in this video

  • Screwdriver (Screwdriver_Type: Phillips) — Removing the handle screw and picking out old packing.
  • Pick Tool · optional — Digging out the old, hardened packing material from inside the bonnet nut.
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FAQs

Are the listed tools sufficient, or should I have anything else on hand for this faucet repair?

The adjustable wrench and slotted screwdriver are essential. It's also wise to have a small wire brush for cleaning corroded threads and a pair of pliers for gripping small parts, as well as some plumber's grease for O-rings.

What is the absolute first and most important step to ensure safety and prevent water damage?

Always turn off the water supply to the outdoor faucet completely before beginning any work. This prevents uncontrolled water flow and potential flooding. Double-check that the water is off by briefly turning on the faucet.

How much time should I set aside for this project as a beginner, and what's the typical cost for replacement parts?

As a beginner, plan for about 30-60 minutes. The cost for replacement O-rings, packing washers, and valve stems is usually very low, often under $10-$20 for a standard repair kit, making it a very economical fix.

My faucet still leaks after replacing the O-rings and packing. What else could be wrong?

First, ensure all parts are seated correctly and connections are snug but not overtightened. If the leak persists, the valve seat inside the faucet might be corroded or damaged, which may require a specialized valve seat dresser tool or replacement.

Transcript
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actual spigot itself but if it's leaking from the stem when you turn on and off the water the water will come squirt and out through here that's a whole other problem which is the bonnet packing inside underneath here it's hard to tell but you just to take it apart you take the handle off so you unscrew the screw here take the handle off take the bonnet not off and it's hard to tell here but that's that's actual packing underneath there that's probably be too old and doesn't have a good seal around the shaft anymore so what you have to do is tear all that out and it should end up looking like this you can actually see the dome portion of the valve in there and it takes a while you've got to pick at it but yeah that's the problem with that if it's leaking through the shaft portion in that case you go to ACE hardware and get one replacement that fits in there and you put that in there like that and you put that

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