Do tap washers come in different thicknesses?

[endecotp]

Photo is a Bristan washbasin tap that I’ve attempted to replace the washer for.

I was under the impression that all “traditional”-type taps used the same washers, differing only in the 3/8, 1/2 and 3/4-inch diameter. But fitting an off-the-shelf 1/2-inch washer on here doesn’t seem right. It is a loose fit pushing over the pointed end of the shaft, and as you can see it isn’t thick enough - unless it’s supposed to be like that.

In use it basically works but “sings”, I.e. a high-frequency tone.

What do you think?

 

[Stuckinarut]

Not something I’ve encountered before, but wouldn’t surprise me. Did you grease the spindle?

 

[Alec_t]

Looks as though the washer should be a bit thicker? Worth trying another (thinner) washer behind that one?

 

[endecotp]

Looks as though the washer should be a bit thicker? Worth trying another (thinner) washer behind that one?

I have a pack of 5 identical ones; two is too many. It could try to reduce the thickness of a second one. Oh, why is nothing ever straightforward!

 

[endecotp]

Did you grease the spindle?

No, am I supposed to? Where exactly?

 

[Stuckinarut]

No, am I supposed to? Where exactly?

Depends on the tap and symptoms, but the small thread above where the washer sits, that should be greased all the way up if needed.

 

[Elkato531]

Different thicknesses, different sized holes, sizes which seem to make little sense. Bristan should be able to supply the correct ones but may be easier to buy a selection box from a plumbers merchant.

 

[gas112]

go into plumbcentre they have different sizes and thicknesses on the shelf

 

[jj4091]

Shouldn't there be a metal washer behind the rubber one.

 

[gas112]

Shouldn't there be a metal washer behind the rubber one.

nope

 

[endecotp]

go into plumbcentre they have different sizes and thicknesses on the shelf

I seem to recall that Plumbcenter won’t sell to the public.

 

[gas112]

I seem to recall that Plumbcenter won’t sell to the public.

yes they do sell to public

 

[opps]

I seem to recall that Plumbcenter won’t sell to the public.

I have never had a problem, but yeah, they may get arsey if you are only buying a 15p item.

 

[gas112]

I have never had a problem, but yeah, they may get arsey if you are only buying a 15p item.

no they wont why else would they stock them