How to Replace a Kohler Shower Cartridge and Balancing Spool — Full Step-by-Step, by Kitchen Faucet on YouTube. 3 min 32 s.
- Video length
- 3 min 32 s
- Time to do it
- 45 minutes
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Steps
- 9
What you need
Steps
Shut off the hot and cold water feeds to the shower valve. If the valve has integral stops, close them with a screwdriver. Open the handle to drain the pressure.
Pry off the index cap on the handle with a small flat tool, undo the Phillips screw underneath, and pull the handle off the stem.
Remove the trim plate, then unscrew the retaining ring or collar that holds the cartridge in the valve body. Channel-lock pliers help if it is tight.
Grip the old cartridge with pliers and pull it straight out. Note which way the tabs and hot-cold markings face so the new one goes in the same way.
Pull the balancing spool out of the valve body. Some Kohler models need the spool turned a quarter turn first before it slides free.
Flush the valve. Hold a bucket or towel over the opening, crack the water on for a few seconds to wash out debris and scale, then shut it off.
Coat the O-rings on the new spool and cartridge with silicone grease. Push the spool in first, then the cartridge, lining up the tabs and markings.
Refit the retaining ring, trim plate and handle. Adjust the hot water limit stop so the handle gives the temperature range you want.
Turn the water back on and run the shower. Check for drips around the trim and confirm the temperature and pressure stay steady.
Tips and common mistakes
Replace the cartridge and spool together, because a worn spool keeps causing temperature swings even with a new cartridge fitted.
Do not overtighten the retaining ring, since it can crack plastic trim and make the handle stiff.
Take the old cartridge to the store or note the model number on the trim so you buy the right kit the first time.
If water still trickles out with the handle closed, the valve stop or seat is worn and needs attention too.
Questions
How do I know if I need the cartridge or the balancing spool?
Temperature that swings hot and cold when someone uses another tap points to the balancing spool. Leaks, a stiff handle or low flow usually mean the cartridge. Replacing both at once saves a second teardown.
Do I have to shut off the main water supply?
Only if the shower valve has no integral stop valves. Many Kohler valves have stops behind the trim, and closing those with a screwdriver is enough.
What if the old cartridge will not budge?
Wiggle it with pliers while pulling straight out, and avoid twisting hard enough to damage the valve body. A cartridge puller tool gives extra grip on stubborn ones.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
