Some Moen cartridge faucets have stop tubes to limit temperature.
Moen-brand valves and faucets all have replaceable cartridges. Single-handle valves regulate temperature as well as water flow by means of strategically-placed holes in the cartridges. When you turn the handle, the holes align with the hot and cold water inlets. If you turn the handle of one of these valves too far to one side, it will deliver only hot water, which can scald you. To prevent this, selected faucets have temperature-limiting stop tubes fitted around the cartridge. If your faucet has a stop tube, you have to remove it before you can remove the cartridge.
Instructions
1. Turn off the water to the faucet, either by turning off the angle stop, which is the shutoff valve located under the sink, or by turning off the main water supply to the house.
2. Unscrew the screw holding the handle to the faucet stem with a Phillips screwdriver. If the handle is plastic, you may have to pry off a cap first. Use a slot screwdriver to do this. If the handle is a lever, look for a nut located under the lever and unscrew it with an Allen wrench.
3. Lift off the handle to expose the cartridge. The stop tube will be fitted around it. Grasp the stop tube with a pair of pliers and pull it out. Continue to Step 4 if the stop tube won't pull right out.
4. Spray a little thread lubricant on the outside of the tube if it is stuck. Wait about 5 minutes, then try pulling it again.
5. Spray white vinegar on the outside of the tube if mineral deposits have collected and fused it to the faucet body. You may have to wait overnight for the vinegar to dissolve the deposits. Once they have dissolved, the tube should slide right out.
Tips Warnings
After you have taken out the tube, you can remove the pin and pull out the cartridge if you need to service it.
