Plunger Replacement on ALL Yard Hydrants

1. Shut off water supply to hydrant
2. lift handle to open position
3. Remove handle linkage and handle.
4. Loosen Packing nut.
5. Remove head casting using two pipe wrenches, one on head casting, one on pipe.
6. Remove operating pipe by gripping pipe with vise grips and prying upward. DO NOT attach vise grips to brass stem. Damage to stem may cause leakage around packing nut.
7. Remove plunger from operating pipe with either pipe wrenches or vise grips
8. Install new plunger
9. Apply a small amount of Silicone grease to plunger to aid the reinsertion into hydrant. (Do not use petroleum based grease)
10. Insert operating rod assembly in hydrant using a mallet or a block of wood. Tap rod assembly until plunger is seated in the valve body
11. Reinstall head, handle and linkage
12. Adjust linkage so handle will snap closed at very end of closing

Troubleshooting Leakage Problems

1. Rocks or other debris in valve seat, causing plunger not to seat properly. Remove head and operating rod per instruction and let the water flow to flush the casing. Examine plunger for damage and replace if necessary.

2. Handle linkage out of adjustment. Handle should "snap" closed when it approximately 2" from the head casting upon turning hydrant off. Adjust linkage as required.

3. Damaged plunger: Replace with new plunger

4. Packing nut leakage: Tighten the packing nut as needed, especially in freezing weather. If water is allowed to seep up around the stem, it may freeze and cause the stem to stick.