tap just runs and runs at full on...

[joko]

i have old type taps - and one of them has started to run and run as though full on - when its turned off.

obviously the mechanism is not closing the hole - could it just need a new washer?
this seems a bit much to be just a problem with the washer...but really i have no idea?

is there something else inside that often needs replacing ?

they are very old taps - probably about 70 years so i suppose the washer could have just disintegrated

thansk

[tonyav]

Sounds like the washer to me joko, 70 years old ?.

[HowardKennitby]

in simple terms do they look something like this

http://www.screwfix.c...rs-4.1/&company=ae235

When you turn the handle does it move vertically as it rotates?

[dustypuss]

This might help.

http://www.fixatap.com.au/how-to-fix/a-tap

But then again if they are very old why not stick your hands in your pocket and get some new ones

[Everhelpful]

I think you answered your own question with the last paragraph.

[jomifl]

Why buy new taps if all they need is a washer or a new seat?

[pdq1]

Sounds like you should turn off your stop cock and call the plumber.

[joko]

i cant open that link. they are rising spindle crosshead types. thanks

[alavahalf]

If your taps are 70 years old they have more than likely been re-seated many times, and there comes a point where you have to accept there is nothing left to re-seat. A new set of taps being the only option.
But before you condem them, take your tap apart and see if the washer (which wont be original) has disintegrated. Inspect the tap seat (they often have a crack across them) and re-face it if you can. Fit a new washer and lubricate the threads with Vaseline.. re-assemble and try it. If that does'nt solve your problem it's time for new taps.

Old British taps have a habit of coming back to life for a few more years after a service... I suspect they are British, due to their age.
Good luck..!

[wildwood]

If your decor demands antique taps, they can be fixed. The thread to lower and rise the spindle may have worn out, this can be fixed but it won't be cheap. Any engineering place can resurface and re-thread but it won't be cheap.

The washer is a DIY job.