Today, it is impossible to imagine any construction project without a mixer: taps are used both in domestic and industrial conditions, offices, government agencies, etc. The scope of distribution of mixers is incredibly large. The comfort and durability of the mixers depend on the quality of the internal element that regulates the water flow - the valve axle boxes. A malfunction of this device will lead to a malfunction of the correct operation of the mixer. How to choose a crane-axle box and replace the mechanism - read below.

What is a crane box? A valve head for a mixer or a valve box is the main element that controls the opening and closing of water. Note that it will be correct to call the element a crane-axle box. The grambox, grand bay, cranbox or grand box options are incorrect and not used among plumbers and plumbing vendors.

In order to carry out a high-quality and replace the crane-axle box, it is necessary to figure out what types of mechanisms exist, what the element consists of and how it works.

So, a standard crane box consists of:

• Housings;
• Fitting;
• Rotary stem.

The body is equipped with threads and gaskets to ensure the tightness of the element. The falling out of the crane-axle box from the mixer is controlled by a quick-detachable washer.

By the type of internal shut-off elements, valve heads are

• With ceramic movable plates;
• With rubber cuffs (worm gear);
• With metal balls.

In addition, there is a semi-turn type valve box, which, most often, is installed after the filter and only passes through clean water without sand, rust, etc. Each type of crane axle box has its own varieties. Therefore, it is better to choose a new device with the old one with you.

The possibility of installing a crane-axle box in the mixer socket depends on the fitting dimensions of the element.

GOST defines such sizes of crane axle boxes as 1/2 and 3/8 inches. In addition, in order to choose a crane-axle box for a specific mixer, it is necessary to take into account the length of the element stem, the number of splines. So for imported mixers, crane axle boxes for 20 and 24 slots are suitable. If it is difficult for you to find an item, then you can ask for help at any plumbing store (or an online store, for example, such as Leroy Merlin).

Worm gear valve box for mixer: pros and cons

A worm-type crane-axle box, or as it is also called a granbox, is a part consisting of a threaded metal rod, which is fixed in the rod and extends when the flywheel is applied. At the end of the screw there is a rubber gasket, which, pressing against the valve, blocks the access to water.

The advantages of worm-type crane axle boxes include:

• Low cost;
• Possibility of self-repair;
• The ability to make gaskets (which, most often, are the cause of element breakdown) independently.

The downside of using such a part is much more. The main disadvantages of the product include its fragility, the presence a large number speed, reduced ride smoothness over time, noise.

The installation of the sink is a rather laborious process. How to cope and save time and money, learn from our article:

Ceramic crane-axle: advantages and disadvantages

Valve mechanisms were replaced by crane axle boxes with a ceramic working pair. Ceramics is a material obtained by firing clay substances with the addition of minerals. It is heat resistant and durable. This is why ceramic valve heads are durable and reliable.

The ceramic plates have the same holes. One of the plates is located in the body of the part, and the second is on the stem. When you turn the tap, the holes are superimposed on each other, giving water flow.

It is possible to replace the plates, if they break, it is possible, but you will have to select a working pair specifically for the size of the part. More often than not, it is easier to replace the entire part.

The main advantages of using ceramic valve heads include:

• Durability;
• A small number of revolutions that are required to open and close the valve;
• Silence;
• Smooth running.

The disadvantages include the cost of a ceramic product, which exceeds the cost of a part with rubber cuffs and the need to install a filter fine cleaning water for correct operation of the valve head.

Replacing the crane and crane axle box

Sometimes an expensive mixer replacement can be avoided by replacing the crane box. This can be done quickly enough and without professional help. At the same time, it should be remembered that different crane axle boxes are not interchangeable. The same can be with axle boxes from different manufacturers (domestic axle boxes cannot replace foreign ones and vice versa). In addition, if a domestically produced valve head is replaced with an imported analog, then the flywheel will also need to be changed. Therefore, it is better to go for a new element, having an old crane box with you.

You can determine which valve-axle box is in the mixer by making movements with a flywheel: if the valve makes four turns, then there is a worm-type valve head in the valve, if ½ turn, then the part is ceramic.

Having selected an element, you can start replacing it. The replacement, in this case, must be carried out with the water supply disconnected.

After that, in order to replace the valve head you need to:

1. Remove the protective cap from the flywheel with a knife or flat head screwdriver.
2. Remove the bolt under the flywheel and unscrew the valve.
3. Clean the thread to which the bolt was fixed.
4. Get the fittings.
5. Unscrew the valve box with an adjustable wrench.
6. Clear footprint for the new element.

Installation of a new valve head and assembly of the mixer are carried out in the reverse order.

If you want the axle box to open in the other direction, then you should unscrew the locking screw of the part and screw it in from the back side.

At the same time, you need to carefully check that the crane-axle box is not overtightened, otherwise the crane may soon leak (this also applies to the threaded connections of the heated towel rail). After installing a new valve head, you need to open the water and check if the tap is leaking.

How to unscrew the crane-axle box if it is stuck to the body

Often, cranes in Soviet-style plumbing cannot be removed with a tool. This is due to the fact that over time, the elements rust and oxidize.

If the valve head is stuck to the mixer body, then you can try:

1. Hook up the edges of the element with an adjustable wrench, loosen the element and unscrew the crane-axle box. The main thing, in this case, is to calculate the force: if you apply a little more force, then you can easily disrupt the thread and break the tap.
2. Use chemicals. Vinegar, household chemicals for removing rust, oxygen-containing agents, WD-40 can erode rust. They will need to lubricate the element and wait a quarter of an hour for the substance to act. The procedure can be repeated if necessary.
3. Use the thermal method. If the crane box is not unscrewed, then you can try to heat it with a construction hairdryer. You can also use open fire, but then plastic fittings mixer may straighten and the metal may darken.
4. Drill out the valve head. This method should be resorted to only if others have not justified themselves. Since after carrying out work in the mixer body, you will have to make a new thread. To remove the element in this way, you first need to cut off the protruding part of the bolt with a hacksaw, and then drill out the rest.

You can use the methods both independently and in combination with each other.

Crane axle repair

Repair of the valve box may be necessary if the valve starts to leak or the mixer drips even when closed. You can do the repair yourself. For this you need to stock up necessary tool, determine the type of valve head and the degree of breakage.

In order to repair the crane box yourself, you need a repair kit, which includes:

• Screwdrivers (flat and Phillips);
• Wrenches (wrenches 7 mm and 17 mm);
• Pliers.

Most often, the repair of a worm-gear crane-axle box consists in replacing the gasket. For this, the valve head is unscrewed, and the rubber insert is replaced with a new one.

If you have to open and close the valve with some effort, and the flywheel itself creaks during revolutions, then it's time to lubricate the valve head.

A waterproof silicone grease is suitable for this. To lubricate the part, it must be removed from the mixer, and the shut-off valve must be unscrewed from the part. The valve holes need to be filled with grease. After repair, the valve head must be reassembled and reinstalled.

How to remove the crane box from the mixer (video)

The crane box is the main element in the mixer, which affects the supply and closing of water. When worn out, the crane box can be repaired or replaced with your own hands. A new part should be chosen, taking into account its size and type, technical characteristics of plumbing. A high-quality replacement and repair can be carried out using the instructions presented above.

Examples of crane axle boxes (photo)

Plumbing in an apartment is a rather complex plumbing system. And the locking mechanism in it is a crane-axle box. Without it, it is quite difficult to imagine the normal functioning of the entire plumbing system in a home. These devices are responsible for regulating the water supply through the mixer, for turning on and off its outlet from the tap. They have a certain period service, after which it is replaced. These devices are different types, they also differ in size. And when deciding how to choose the right ones for replacement, all this must be taken into account.

Types and sizes of devices

Outwardly, all crane axle boxes are very similar to each other, but in terms of their internal structure, they can be quite different. Two types of these devices are structurally distinguished:

• worm - they are also called rubber because of the gasket of this material located inside the mechanism, which serves to close the valve saddle for supplying water through;
• ceramic - these devices can also be called disc. Only two discs are made of ceramics in such crane-axles, on which there are holes for the passage of water. One disk is motionless, the other is mobile. By turning the handle of the water supply faucet, it opens or closes the holes on the first disc.

Attention! Ceramic and worm gear devices can in some cases be interchangeable. But this is only possible if they fit the mixer body in size and thread.

On the market of plumbing fixtures and devices today you can see a fairly large selection of crane-axle boxes of both domestic and foreign production. They can differ in flow rate, water temperature and maximum pressure withstand. There are differences in these devices and in size. When buying replacement devices, you need to take into account that they can differ in the number of slots on the surface of the stem for the flywheel - this is 20 or 24. And the standard thread sizes for installation in the mixer are 1/2 and 3/8 inches.

Rubber crane axle boxes

Worm Gear Devices

Rubber or worm gears are equipped with a stem. When the crane handle is turned, it extends. As a result, the gasket in the device opens or closes the valve seat and, accordingly, the water supply. The gasket itself can be made from various types of rubber. And it depends on how long it will serve. Its wear can be determined by the hum in the pipes, which appears when you turn on the tap to supply water.

The main disadvantage of this type of crane axle box is the not too long service life of this device. Among the advantages possessed by devices with a worm gear are:

• rather low cost of these devices;
• prevalence on sale, which allows you to easily find the desired model;
• ease of replacement with your own hands or for repairing this device;
• the ability to make the gasket yourself from suitable rubber.

Crane axle boxes of ceramic type

Structurally, they are very simple. In the manufacture of such devices, two types of materials are used - brass and ceramics. Ceramic in them only discs or inserts, with the help of which the supply or shutdown of water is adjusted. The disadvantages of devices of this type include a higher cost compared to cranes with a worm gear. In addition, they are more sensitive to the quality of the water passing through them. Accordingly, in the presence of sand and other foreign particles in it, the device may break down. To protect the device from possible breakdowns, it is better to think about an additional installation of high-quality equipment supplied to the apartment.

Ceramic crane axle boxes

But despite a number of disadvantages inherent in this type of device, one should not forget about the undoubted advantages ceramic crane-axles... Among these advantages are:

• noiseless operation of the device;
• the duration of the service life;
• no effort to open the water supply and shut it off.

Selecting a crane-axle box for replacement

Almost any device requires replacement over time. And when buying a crane box, it is important not to be mistaken with the dimensions, otherwise the purchased device may simply not fit the existing mixer, as a result of which its installation will be impossible. Usually, when purchasing a crane-axle box, they pay attention to the manufacturer of these devices. The quality of the mechanism and the overall life of its operation often depend on this.

If, when buying a crane box, there were difficulties with determining the type of device installed in the system, and it is not known what exactly is in the mixer - a device of a ceramic type or with a worm gear, then this is easy to find out using the number of valve turns to open or shut off the water supply ... If a worm-type device is installed, then 3-4 turns need to be done, and for ceramic ones - only half a turn.

Crane axle device

Valves are either "slotted", which is more common in imported devices, or "square" - this is mainly used for models of domestic production. Also, the valve and valve (flywheel) may not be of the same standard. You also need to pay attention to this when buying. Before purchasing a new device, it is recommended to measure the valve and stem in the old one in length, as well as to determine the type and pitch of the thread for the mixer body.

Advice. If difficulties arise with measurements and determining the type of device, it is better to take with you to the store as a sample those valve and crane-axle box that were in the system, so that the specialist can help you choose the right model of the device.

Although the crane box is quite simple, but a very important mechanism, which is entrusted with the function of adjusting the water supply, turning it on and off. This device is responsible for the operation of any crane in the apartment. Therefore, you need to correctly select it for the mixer installed in the system.

Which crane box to choose: video

Crane axles: photo

The company "Santim" implements different kinds crane-boxes for mixers. Here you can buy Calorie and Zerich products in small and large wholesale at a bargain price. The catalog contains locking devices for valves of domestic and foreign production of various diameters and designs.

Types of crane boxes

The crane-box is the main element of the shut-off valves of any mixer, which is responsible for adjusting the water pressure. In modern water supply systems, two main types of crane-axles are used, made of brass:

• worm gear shutting off the water supply with a retractable rod;
• disc devices in which the locking mechanism is two ceramic plates.

Both locking and adjusting devices are interchangeable and unified. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, determined by the operating conditions (intensity of use and water quality).

According to the landing diameter (bore), there are valve axles with 1/2 "and 3/8" threads for imported mixers, and with metric M18 or M22 for domestic ones.

The way of fastening the valve flywheel may be different. In imported crane-axle boxes, slots are used, the number of which can be 15, 18, 20 or 24, and in domestic mixers, a square head is used with the flywheel fixing with a screw.

In addition to sizes to technical specifications relate:

• bandwidth;
• operating pressure;
• maximum allowable temperature.

Features of worm-gear crane-axles

The principle of operation of the worm-gear valve-axle box is based on the movement of the stem when turning the mixer handwheel. A rubber gasket at its base prevents water from entering. The stem has the form of a hollow hexagon with a head on which the flywheel is attached. A metal screw with a left-hand worm gear is fixed on the rod, from which the crane-axle box got its name. Sealing glands are installed inside the body, ensuring the tightness of the structure.

The rubber gasket is the most vulnerable point of such a crane-axle box. Due to constant loads and thermal effects (expansion and contraction from hot water) it can wrinkle and fail. Therefore, over time, to shut off the water, it is required to clamp the valve-axle box more strongly, which can lead to a breakdown of the thread. But replacing the seal is not difficult. The gasket is a consumable item and is included in the standard mixer repair kit. To ensure the durability of the rubber ring, a metal shell can be installed on it, protecting it from flattening.

The advantage of worm gearboxes is considered to be their lower demand for water quality in comparison with ceramic locking and adjusting devices. The presence of small insoluble particles (sand, rust, etc.) in the system does not affect the performance of the fittings, since the elastic rubber gasket ensures tight locking of the channel in the mixer even if foreign substances get under it.

The disadvantage of this type of crane-axle box is the low speed of shutting off the water flow. For complete locking, it is necessary to make 3-4 turns of the flywheel. But at the same time it can serve as an advantage. The long stroke of the worm shaft allows you to smoothly adjust the water pressure.

Features of ceramic crane boxes

The design of such crane-axle boxes is much simpler than that of worm gears. The locking elements in such a device are two ceramic discs that have a perfectly smooth surface with identical holes. The combination of the latter opens the way for the flow of water. The lower disc is fixed in the housing, and the upper disc is fixed on a rotary rod, which rotates with the mixer flywheel.

A sealing gasket (paronite, polyethylene, rubber or fluoroplastic) is rigidly fixed on the lower ceramic disk of the crane box. Since it is not subjected to dynamic loads, it practically does not wear out during operation. The body is sealed by means of two glands located on the rotary stem.

To close the water supply channel with a ceramic valve-axle box, it is enough to turn it by 90 or 180 ° (depending on the number and location of holes on the discs). This allows you to easily and quickly adjust the head, in contrast to the worm device.

Ceramic crane axle boxes are durable (due to fewer moving parts), they can be used for up to 10 years. But their design is vulnerable to poor-quality water containing fine inclusions of sand, scale or rust. Solid, insoluble particles can lead to uneven abrasion or damage to the ceramic discs, which leads to a leakage of the valve boxes. Subsequently, they cannot be repaired and only need to be replaced. In case of low water quality in the water supply system, it is recommended to install primary coarse filters.

Ceramic crane axle boxes do not emit any extraneous sounds during operation, which favorably distinguishes them from worm gears, which resonate even with slight wear of the sealing gasket. To dampen the whistling of water caused by cavitation of air bubbles, special plastic noise dampers can be used. Their shape redistributes the flow and neutralizes unpleasant sound. We offer to buy ceramic axle-boxes with delivery in Moscow, Novosibirsk and Yekaterinburg.

Our offer

The Santim company sells in large and small wholesale worm and ceramic crane axle boxes Calorie and Zerich. One package contains 500 pieces. You can buy shut-off and control valves for mixers of various designs from us.

To purchase crane-boxes, indicate the required quantity of goods in the order form and fill in the fields with contact information. Our specialists will contact you to clarify the terms of payment and delivery. You can order crane axle boxes for mixers using our price list - this will allow you to more accurately form an application for plumbing equipment, calculate a personal discount and speed up the processing of information by our managers.

The catalog contains the recommended retail prices for the product. The minimum order value is 10,000 rubles. Contact the managers of the Santim Company to clarify individual and wholesale discounts by phone or e-mail. We carry out wholesale deliveries of worm and ceramic cranes to all regions Russian Federation from warehouses in Moscow, Yekaterinburg and Novosibirsk. You can choose any of the transport companies offered by us. Addresses, directions and telephones of our representative offices are indicated on the page "

Modern valve taps and mixers are quite reliable and durable devices, but work in difficult conditions often leads to their malfunctions. The main reason for the breakdown is the wear of the parts of the crane-axle box - the main unit of household shut-off valves. Although this device today can be easily found in trading network, rush to spend money is not worth it. The crane box has a simple design, which allows you to repair the mixer on your own.

Crane axle boxes: device features and typical malfunctions

The crane-box is called the most important and critical unit of any valve mixer, thanks to which it is possible to quickly turn on or off the water supply. It is this simple mechanism that allows us to regulate the amount of flow and thereby set the temperature and pressure we need. The basis of the locking device is a stem with sealing elements installed inside a metal body with a threaded part.

Depending on the size of the threaded part, there are valve boxes with a diameter of 1/2 and 3/8 inches

The following malfunctions indicate breakdowns of the crane axle box:

• leak from the tap when the valve is closed;
• water leakage from under the flywheel;
• weakening of the force of the jet;
• "Jerks" and "blows" when the pressure is turned on;
• lack of valve fixation in extreme positions.

And if even the crane is working normally, but after turning on the pressure, the pipes begin to make noise and rumble - this may also be to blame crane box.

Varieties and design of locking devices

Today the plumbing equipment market offers household plumbing fittings with two types of taps:

• with rubber cuff,
• with ceramic liners.

To understand what kind of mixer you are dealing with, it is enough to unscrew the flywheel. Cranes of the first type assume multiple valve rotation, while the second open in half a turn.

Crane axle boxes with rubber seal

Devices with a rubber insert are also called worm gears due to the presence of a worm pair in them. The operation of the rubber seal assembly is very simple. When the handwheel rotates, the threaded gear moves the stem with an elastic washer, due to which the valve disc is tightly pressed against the seat installed in the mixer body - the water flow stops. When the flywheel is unscrewed in the other direction, a gap appears between the valve parts through which the liquid flows out.

The crane box works thanks to a worm gear and an elastic sealing collar

The amount of flow is regulated by the width of the gap between the disc and the seat... The worm gear was not chosen by chance here - thanks to it, it is possible to achieve a movement of the stem by a fraction of a millimeter, which allows you to very accurately set the required pressure. Breakage of crane axle boxes with a rubber washer most often occurs due to wear of the elastic seal. The second malfunction most often occurs due to excessive forces applied to the flywheel, and much less often due to natural wear of the threaded part. Usually, the breakdown of the worm gear occurs soon after the failure of the rubber cuff - in order to turn off the valve, you have to turn the valve with great diligence.

The advantage of devices with a rubber seal is the low price. In addition, a leaky gasket can be easily replaced if necessary. As for the shortcomings, there is only one - sooner or later, but a leak will happen. It all depends on the density and wear resistance of the rubber from which the sealing washer is made.

Crane axles with ceramic pair

Today, rubber-gasket cranes have been replaced by locking units with ceramic inserts. It is thanks to the more wear-resistant parts that such devices are more reliable and durable.

Ceramic crane axles are reliable and durable devices

The design of the ceramic valve box is based on a body with a fixed ceramic disc, in which there are several holes. The second wear disc has the same openings and is mounted on a pivot rod. Having turned the valve half a turn, align the holes on both plates and open the water. Due to the fact that the discs are tightly pressed against each other, the liquid passes only through the channel intended for this. To regulate or shut off the flow, just turn the handwheel slightly. In this case, the holes are partially aligned or mutually overlap.

The advantages of crane boxes with ceramic parts are in their durability and convenience, because to turn on the water "to full" does not require multiple rotation of the valve. The downside is the relatively high cost and sensitivity to the presence of impurities. The latter factor forces the installation of a water purification filter.

All about the repair of ceramic faucet axle box for a mixer

Breakdowns of locking mechanisms with ceramic liners occur for several reasons:

1. Damage to the sealing elements. Even the most modern mixer uses rubber and silicone rings for sealing, which wear out or lose elasticity over time. For this reason, there are leaks from under the valve or water from the tap.
2. Debris trapped between ceramic discs. Due to foreign objects, the surfaces of the working plates are loosely adjacent to each other. Water enters the gap, so it is not possible to completely shut off the tap. If such a nuisance is not eliminated in time, then risks and scratches appear on the disks, which further exacerbate the situation.
3. Development in a pair of stem-body. It happens due to normal wear and tear and does not occur often. This malfunction is irreparable, so you will have to replace the complete crane-axle box.
4. Wear of ceramic plates. Such a breakdown is rare and occurs most often due to the poor quality of the tap water. To restore the operation of the crane axle box, you will need a repair kit, which includes wear-resistant discs of the same type and size.

To find out the cause of the malfunction, the mixer must be dismantled and disassembled. But before that, you need to prepare the tool and cut off the water supply.

Construction of a crane box with ceramic discs

Before starting work, you should familiarize yourself with the design of the troublemaker.

The performance of the ceramic crane-axle box is ensured by a pair of ceramic plates with holes

A typical locking unit with ceramic plates is shown in the figure and consists of the following parts:

• frame;
• rotary stem with O-rings;
• bracket or retaining ring;
• upper (adjusting) ceramic disc;
• lower (input) ceramic disc;
• sealing gasket.

In addition, some models of crane-axle boxes are equipped with sliding washers, a noise damper and other details that facilitate operation and make the use of the mixer more comfortable. For the manufacture of metal elements most often brass is used, which has high corrosion resistance and wear resistance.

What is needed in the work

To disassemble the valve and replace worn parts, you will need:

• keys - gas and adjustable;
• pliers;
• a set of flat-blade screwdrivers;
• spanner key - size "17".

You may also need fum tape, which is used to seal threaded connections, and a consistent waterproof lubricant. As for parts for repair, it is most likely that it will not work to prepare everything necessary for replacement in advance. This can only be done if there is complete confidence that the repair kit is suitable for such a crane. In most cases, it is possible to determine what is the cause of the leaks only after disassembling the valve.

Removing the locking mechanism

Removing the faulty unit from the mixer is performed in the following order:

1. Dismantle the valve flywheel. Most often, the locking screw with which this part is held on the stem is hidden under a plastic decorative plug. To get to it, you need to remove the cork by prying it with a knife. The screw is turned out completely, after which the flywheel is removed. Sometimes this part is installed with a slight interference, so a little effort may be needed.

   The valve box flywheel is fastened with a screw hidden behind a plastic plug

2. Using an adjustable or gas wrench, unscrew the decorative tap cover (apron), which closes access to the valve. Often, oxide forms in the places of threaded connections, which prevents disassembly. If the applied force is not enough, then the parts can be heated with a construction hair dryer or the threads can be soaked using vinegar.

   Remove the decorative nut with extreme care, otherwise you may leave scratches on its shiny surface.

   
   

   In order not to damage the decorative apron when unscrewing, wrap the part with a piece of thick fabric. Such a gasket between the key and the part will protect the shiny nickel-plated surface of the faucet from scratches.

3. Having gained access to the axle box, it is removed. For this, an adjustable wrench is used, with which the device is unscrewed in the direction opposite to the clockwise movement.

   To remove the crane-axle box, use an adjustable wrench

After dismantling, all threaded parts of the mixer are cleaned with a metal brush and rinsed. After that, they begin to inspect and identify faulty parts. If the device cannot be repaired, then a decision is made to completely replace the valve. The assembly is carried out in the reverse order, with a delicate tightening. It is best to turn the valve-axle box to the maximum by hand, and start tightening with a key by slightly unscrewing the water supply tap. As soon as the flow from under the valve stops, the installation is considered complete. In this case, the gasket is not fully compressed, therefore, if necessary, it becomes possible to tighten the connection again.

To prevent the formation of scale on the threads, they are protected with a water-resistant grease. This will make it easy to disassemble the faucet next time.

Valve repair

As with lip-type valves, there are several types of gaskets used in devices with ceramic inserts. In most cases, leaks occur precisely because of their wear.

Replacing the gasket in the valve seat

A dense rubber ring mounted on the valve body is necessary to seal the valve box. Over time, this gasket “shrinks” or loses its elasticity, leading to leakage. In some cases, the loss of tightness is associated with the retaining ring holding the gasket. Moisture breaks down and damages the rubber element. In any case, the damaged parts will have to be replaced.

The gasket in the valve seat serves to eliminate leaks between the valve box and the mixer body

There is no need to disassemble the locking device; you just need to pull it out of the seat. Before putting a new gasket in place, it should be coated with a thin layer of waterproof grease.... If a suitable sealing element was not at hand, then sanitary silicone sealant will help to temporarily solve the problem. It is applied in a thin layer to an old pad and allowed to dry.

After disassembling the mixer, carefully inspect the valve seat. The reason for the loss of tightness can be cracks or large cavities on the valve body - in this case, a simple replacement of the gasket cannot be dispensed with, you will have to change the mixer assembly.

Replacing the pressure washer

The second gasket, which is made of materials such as fluoroplastic, polypropylene or caprolon, compensates for possible gaps between the ceramic plates. During operation, the pressure washer is subjected to constant loads, which contribute to its wear. As a result, the part becomes thinner and cannot press the bypass elements with the same force, which leads to the appearance of a gap, and, as a result, water seepage.

PTFE washer eliminates the gap between ceramic plates

To replace the damaged part, the crane box must be disassembled. To do this, remove the retaining ring, remove the stem from the body and dismantle the plastic washer and wear plates. Before assembly, the surface of the parts is cleaned and coated with a thin layer of grease.

A retaining ring or spring clip is used to fix the stem in the valve box housing.

If it was not possible to find a new washer of the same size, then the thickness of the old part is increased to eliminate the malfunction. To do this, a layer of electrical tape is glued onto its surface or a gasket cut from a transparent plastic package is placed.

Removal of foreign particles

Sometimes leaks are caused by foreign elements, such as grains of sand or rust particles, between the plates. In this case, to restore the functionality of the mixer, the crane-axle box is removed and disassembled. After that, it is necessary to clean and thoroughly rinse all parts. The ceramic plates are thoroughly examined. If the debris left deep risks on their surface, then it is better to replace the parts with new ones, otherwise water can penetrate into the gap between the discs.

Limestone deposits and foreign particles contribute to increased wear of ceramic plates

If there is no place to buy the same ceramic plates, then you can try to grind their surface. To do this, you need a fine abrasive powder, which is used when grinding in valves of cars or for sharpening tools. Most often, aluminum oxide or silicon carbide with a grain size of no more than 1200 is used as it. The abrasive is mixed with machine oil and applied in a thin layer to a piece of glass. Grinding is carried out by repeated circular motions of the disk over the surface, adding the prepared paste if necessary. After the damage has been removed, the plates are rubbed together, washed, and, lubricated with a waterproof grease, are installed in place.

When repairing the crane box, it should be borne in mind that the ceramic discs are lapped on one side, so they cannot be turned over during assembly.

What to do if metal elements are damaged

Fatal defects in the elements of the locking device include:

• wear and tear of the body or stem of the crane axle box;
• chips or cracks on the surface of ceramic plates;
• damage to the threaded parts.

If, during disassembly and inspection of the parts of the locking device, the above deficiencies were found, then the crane box cannot be repaired - you will have to replace the assembled unit.

Video: features of repairing a ceramic crane axle box

Is it possible to repair the crane-axle box with a rubber gasket

Leaks in mixer worm gearboxes happen for several reasons:

• wear of threaded parts;
• damage to rubber seals;
• defects associated with mechanical damage.

Excessive worm gear wear or cracks in the body and stem locking device change completely.

If water seeps between the valve box body and the mixer, the O-ring should be replaced - the work is carried out in full accordance with the algorithm described above. If the valve itself began to leak, then the rubber cuff, which serves as a valve seal, should be replaced.

Most often, it is possible to restore the working capacity of the worm-gear valve-axle box by replacing the sealing gasket.

The replacement procedure is as follows:

Before assembling the mixer, it will be useful to change the O-ring and replenish the lubricant in the worm pair. This will extend the service life of the valves and delay the next service.

Thanks to my versatile hobbies, I write on various topics, but my favorites are engineering, technology and construction. Perhaps because I know a lot of nuances in these areas, not only theoretically, as a result of studying in technical university and graduate school, but also from the practical side, since I try to do everything with my own hands.

The crane-axle box can be considered the main element of any crane, it is this simple design that is responsible for the fact that when the valve is turned, the water supply is shut off. When choosing a specific model, one has to take into account not only the geometric dimensions, but also the operating conditions of this device. The proposed material will allow you to understand what a crane-axle box is, its structure and principle of operation, and will also help in choosing.

Ceramic and rubber crane axle boxes

Types of crane axle boxes

As for the classification, depending on the design, one can distinguish:

• devices with a worm connection, during operation, the stem simply extends and closes the passage through which water entered. Worm-gear crane-axle box- classic, it is in this category that most old devices belong.

Note! You can understand that this type of axle box is used in the tap by how many revolutions you need to make before the water is shut off. In worm gear models, the stem descends smoothly, so you need to make several full turns.

• ceramic - not the entire device is actually made of ceramics, but only 2 discs, which are the locking element. The price is slightly higher than that of a worm analog, but ceramic discs wear out very slowly, besides, the valve can be closed almost instantly, just turning the handle by about 90ᵒ;

• ball devices are also worth noting... The ball valve-axle box differs from the above in that an ordinary metal ball with a through hole acts as a shut-off element. As well as the ceramic version, it allows you to quickly shut off the water flow.

In general, the design of crane axle boxes from different manufacturers remains the same, only individual parts are changed in order to increase durability. For example, some manufacturers arrange a grease chamber between the o-ring and the slide ring to increase piston durability and ensure smooth grip rotation.

And the locking gasket can simply be protected with a brass shell - this will prevent it from creeping under load.

The types + dimensions of the axle-box crane are especially important when choosing. If the type of this device affects only the durability and usability of the crane, then the possibility of installing the axle box in the nest depends on the landing size.

More about device and installation

As for what types of crane boxes can be considered optimal, there is no universal answer, it all depends on the operating conditions and requirements for the crane. Therefore, it makes sense to consider the design and principle of operation of the previously listed types of devices.

The device and principle of operation of the worm crane box

The principle of operation is that when the flywheel rotates, the rod moves up and down and the rubber locking gasket fixed at its end reliably closes the channel through which the water entered. It is the locking gasket that can be considered the "weakest link", but it will not be difficult to replace it, so that the rubber valve axle box can be considered quite reliable.

A metal rod with a cut left-hand thread (aka a worm screw) is fixed in the rod. The rod itself is produced in the form of a hollow hexagonal rod with a head for installing a handle (handwheel). A rubber seal is attached to the end of the worm screw.

By the look of the head under the flywheel, one can judge who the manufacturer of the crane axle box is. For models of domestic production, it has a tetrahedral shape, for foreign models it has a round notch. For example, a 20-slot axle box crane is guaranteed to be of foreign production.

If we compare it with analogs (ceramic and ball), then we can only note that much less durability. But such a crane-axle box is much less demanding on the quality of water, so if there are small mechanical inclusions in the water, then this option is suitable.

As for the dimensions, the axle box crane is considered to be the most running one 3 4, 3/8, 1/2 inches. It is these diameters of the landing part that are found in the vast majority of houses.

Ceramic faucet box

The key element of such a device is 2 ceramic plates with a perfectly flat surface. Each of them has done through hole the same shape. The lower plate is fixed, and the upper plate is connected to the stem and the handle. If a crane box with a flywheel requires several turns to open, then the maximum that a semi-turn analogue will require is a 90ᵒ turn.

When the valve is opened, the holes on the lower and upper discs are aligned; when closed, the upper plate turns so that the holes overlap.

Note! The only drawback of this design can be considered almost complete unsuitability for repair. If the ceramic disk fails, you will have to buy a new axle box.

The tightness depends on how tightly the plates fit one to the other, therefore, the half-turn valve-axle box should only let through clean water, without grains of sand and other solid inclusions. For example, it can be used to supply water after a filter.

About the sizes and interchangeability of crane-axles

Quite often people want to replace a constantly leaking worm gear. In this regard, the question arises - will this require replacing the entire crane or it is enough to simply insert a new one in the place of the old crane-axle box.

When choosing, you need to be guided by the diameter of the bore, that is, the size of that part of the crane box that is screwed into the mixer must exactly match the size of the nest. It is clear that, for example, a 3 8-inch axle box crane will not fit a hole with a smaller diameter.

It is also worth paying attention to the arrangement of the part for the flywheel. In imported devices, the number of notches matters, and in domestic devices, this part is completely made in the form of a tetrahedron. So, if a domestically produced crane-axle box is changed to a ceramic analogue, then the flywheel will also need to be replaced.

As for the length, in this parameter most of the crane-axle boxes do not differ from each other, which only contributes to their interchangeability.

The procedure for performing work when replacing and repairing crane towers

When replacing, the instructions for performing the work will look like this:

• first you need to stop the water supply and start dismantling the old device. The first step is to remove the flywheel cap;
• a bolt will be found under it, by unscrewing which, you can remove the valve;
• after that, you can unscrew the axle box itself from the seat with a key;

• after inspecting the threads and removing debris, you can proceed to. The work is carried out in the reverse order - first the axle box itself is screwed in, then it is the turn of the decorative cap and valve.

Note! When choosing a new crane box, it is extremely important to choose the right size. By eye, it is definitely not worth making a choice, as a result, you can get, for example, a crane-axle with a 3/8-inch seat diameter, while a 1 2-inch axle box crane was needed.

The flywheel is installed only if it matches the number of splines on the fitting. It is clear that the valve of the axle box 18 splines and the flywheel with a square bore are simply incompatible.

As for the repair, in the case of worm gears, it usually consists in replacing the locking gasket. In this case, all that needs to be done is to dismantle the crane box and replace the old gasket with a purchased new one. If you wish, you can even cut it yourself out of a fairly dense and thick rubber.

It is much worse if the very bottom of the seat is damaged, as a result of this, even with a good laying of the crane-axle box, it will leak a little. In this case, it will be necessary to replace the entire crane, as a temporary measure, the installation of a thicker gasket can be considered.

As for ceramic crane boxes, then, most likely, if problems with tightness appear, only its complete replacement will help. But sometimes the cause of the leak lies in the abrasion of the ring, through which the plates are tightly pressed against each other.

In this case, repair is possible with your own hands, for this it is enough just to cut out a new ring of about the same thickness (there is no need to observe the exact dimensions) and place it instead of the old one on the stock. On this, the possibilities of repairing ceramic crane axle boxes are exhausted.

Summarizing

The crane-axle is a simple, but no less important mechanism that is responsible for the normal operation of any crane in the house. The proposed material will allow you to get an idea of ​​the principle of operation of such devices and make your choice.

The videos in this article can be thought of as a quick guide to self-replacement crane axle boxes.