If you haven’t checked out part 1 of this two-part video, now is a good time to do so. Just click here:
Basic Faucet Connecting Methods – Part 1

By now I hope you’re all familiar with the basin wrench, an essential tool for installing any faucet. In my travels, I love finding new tools (my toys), and the Basin Buddy is one such tool.

I found this in my local plumbing supply house and had to try it out. The attraction for me was that it had a small footprint, easy to store in my tool bag and it’s able to be used with most plastic lock and basin nuts found on most faucets today.

Don’t get me wrong, I always use my trusty adjustable basin wrench made by Ridgid but if you try to torque up a plastic locknut a little too much, the wings will break right off. The Basin Buddy eliminates this issue and by the way Ridgid has come out with a cool tool called the Ridgid faucet and sink installer which can perform a variety of tasks.

I shot a video about it and I encourage you to check it out. If you’re going to invest in the Baisn Buddy, just be aware you will need to use a 1/2″ or 3/8′ ratchet with an extension in order to reach up to the faucet.

Depending on which style basin connector you’re going to use, you might also need a tubing cutter. The solid chrome plated supply tube will have to be cut to size while the flexible stainless steel versions can be used as is.

I encourage you to watch both parts of this series and as always ,if you have questions please drop me a line at info@bobsplumbingvideos.com.

HAPPY PLUMBING!

This is a two part video series about basic faucet connecting methods. This is video 1.

I could have gone over this in the faucet installation video, but I wanted to introduce you to the basics before you get on your back and attempt to install your own faucet.

Basically you have two materials to work with, one being the classic metal (i.e.: brass, zinc locknuts and basin nuts) and the second being plastic, which has almost become the industry standard.

Being from the “old school” of thought, I have a preference for the metal components since you can bear down on them, which will make a good tight installation.

I find that with the plastic versions, I end up damaging the nuts and locknuts by breaking off the plastic wings. In either case,

I highly recommend using a backup friction washer or “rosette.” Generally made of metal, they allow the locknuts to turn freely allowing you to get your faucet secured nice and tight.

They are a must if you’re mounting onto a cast iron sink because of the rough unfinished texture. If you leave the backup washer out, the locknut will have a difficult time turning as it starts getting tighter.

On a stainless steel sink installation you can probably get away with not using them, but in my opinion it’s just good practice to include them on every installation.

Follow me over to part 2 in this video series and learn more about basic faucet connecting methods here:
Basic Faucet Connecting Methods – Part 2

I’ll even give you my thoughts on the Basin Buddy featured in this video.

HAPPY PLUMBING!