Looking for replacement insert for Armitage Shanks porcelain tap handle

[paralucent]

The insert for the Armitage Shanks porcelain hot tap handle on my bathroom sink has split and now the tap handle sits loosely on top and cannot be pushed in.

It would be trivial to fix if I could find the part. It is a 6 spline insert and is not compatible with the 8 spline design found in current AS ceramic tap handles. Millions of these inserts were probably produced back in the day but not only can I not find any for sale, I cannot even find a picture of one!

Any advice would be much appreciated.

Tap_spreader

• paralucent
• 13 Jan 2021

Tap spreader for Armitage Shanks ceramic tap handle

 

[footprints]

No idea of the cost but there are 3D printing companies advertising on line, might be worth ringing some up to see if they will do a one off.

PS I suspect the spindle is stiff you would be wise to sort that out before fitting a new part

 

[paralucent]

The spindle/valve is stiff. In fact it was pulling off the handle to replace it that caused the split in the insert.

I don't know much about 3D printing but the matching insert is wedged inside the cold tap handle and difficult to remove. I may try gently hammering the broken one into its handle and fill in the split part with epoxy.

 

[oldbuffer]

Would it be a) worthwhile, and b) possible to change the knobs. E.g https://www.bathroomspareparts.co.u...lain-handles-white---pair-s802001-37177-p.asp

 

[paralucent]

It would certainly be possible to change them although the above knobs would still require inserts. As for worthwhile well it would be a shame to have to throw away perfectly good handles. I think I can fix it with the help of some epoxy (and a hammer!). I'm just surprised these inserts are so rare.