How to Pack a Water Shutoff Valve

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Locate and shut off water supply to the line that feeds the leaking valve.

   You may need to shut off water to the entire house if there is no cut off for the line.
   
   Open a faucet to relieve back-pressure on water line.
2. 2

   Step 2: Remove the packing nut with an adjustable wrench.

   The packing cap is the cap just below the handle.
   
   The packing material is behind the nut and one washer. , Don't damage brass surfaces.
   
   Use a toothpick or dowel rod to clear compacted material. ,, Do not over-tighten. ,,,
3. 3

   Step 3: Carefully remove the old hardened packing from around the stem of the valve.

4. 4

   Step 4: Re-wrap the clean stem with new packing.

5. 5

   Step 5: Tighten packing nut enough to compress packing material.

6. 6

   Step 6: Open water supply.

7. 7

   Step 7: If stem still leaks

8. 8

   Step 8: tighten packing nut a little more.

9. 9

   Step 9: If valve still leaks

10. 10

    Step 10: the valve stem may not be seating properly due to wear.

Detailed Guide

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