I have a Delta Tub/Spout Pull Down Diverter that has a pretty persistent drip. The HOT and COLD handles are turned off and seem to be as tight as they can be. After doing some research online I believe what I actually have is the Delta Universal Fit Chrome Diverter Tub Spout. In order to fix this drip does the complete tub spout need to be replaced? It doesn't seem to be expensive at all and seems to be the simplest route to go. I just wanted to be sure i'm not missing another solution to my problem.

Even if you unscrew your diverter, there isn't anything you can do to make it perform any better. It's best to replace your tub spout/diverter combo. I imagine your getting water out of the spout when in shower mode......they do wear out when used a lot. If you decide to change your spout, write back and I can guide you through the process of ID and removal/replacement procedure. But if your not a pretty good handy person, call your plumber to do it 4 u. He would appreciate your business. Good luck with your problem and always know where and how to turn your house water supply off before attempting a plumbing repair. :-)

One of 2 things is happening. Either the o-ring is shot, or you have a hairline fracture of the plastic around the brass adapter. The o-ring is a #18, but if there's a crack in the plastic you'll need to replace the spout.

Hi,
If it was me... I would replace that spout...
the spout either is threaded on or it has a set screw on the bottom at the back that you loosen and then pull the spout off by pulling straight away from the wall...
Check and see if the spout has the hole for the set screw...if not then twist it counter clockwise and it will turn off...
then repalce the spout with a new one with out the diverter...

heatman101

that is the way they are made. they are pressure balanced to reduce the risk of scallding.
however there is an adjustment that will allow a little more hot water. if you remove the handle, there is a small plastic disk, remove that, under that you will see a small ring with what looks like gear splines... pull out slightly and turn counter clockwise a few notches. reinstall the plastic disk and test.

if you don't get enough hot water, adjust again. only adjust a couple of notches at a time. you don't want to scald yourself in the shower.

It's possible the diverter in the tub spout is jammed.

The water stops at the spout .You can replace your tub spout with one that dosnt have a diverter. It isnt neccisary though ,the one you have is fine,jest dont pull down on the diverter.

It sounds like it could be manufacture defect. Take it back for a new one.

The only possible explaination is that the water is finding it easier to go up than down. Water is lazy, just like me. ;)

Use an allen key to remove the tub spout. It's underneath and awkward. Once the allen key is loose, the spout just slides off. Try running the water. This may solve your problem and all you'll need is a new tub spout. If not.....

Turn the water off to the house.

Use an allen key to remove the handle.

Use a phillips to remove the trim plate (2 screws). Cut the silicone around the trim if it's there (which, in a proper installation it shouldn't be, but...)

Unscrew the nut (usually chrome) holding the cartridge into the brass body of the valve. The cartridge pulls straight out. Check for restriction in the ports of the cartridge itself. Check for restriction in the line going down to the tub spout. If you can't find anything, replace the cartridge.

Reassemble & Enjoy!

Remove hot/cold button in handle, remove screw/pull off handle. Remove the two screws in the wall plate/remove plate. Use a wrench to remove the diverter assembly. Get new diverter assy and reinstall eveything. You don't need to turn off the water.

Its probably just stuck on some lime and mineral deposits. You can try and spray some lime away on it and then try to loosen it. Or you can unscrew the whole spout so you can soak it. If that doesn't work, you can either contact Delta for an exact replacement or you can purchase a generic one.