Choosing the right faucet stem repair parts keeps a leaking sink or tub working smoothly without the cost and hassle of replacing the whole fixture. These small parts vary by brand, material, and compatibility. Our recommendations are based on hands‑on testing, cross‑checking manufacturer fit lists, and surveying real customer feedback.
How we tested and chose
What we evaluated:
- Compatibility: Confirmed model numbers (Delta, Kohler, Glacier Bay etc.) and cross‑referenced OEM part numbers.
- Materials & construction: Brass, copper, POM, and stainless elements resist wear; we favored metal stems with quality seats/springs.
- Ease of installation: We tested how quickly stems swap into common two‑handle faucets and whether extra parts (seats, springs, stops) were included.
- Real‑world performance: We inspected for drips after installation, smooth operation, and longevity in short bench tests and from verified consumer reports.
- Value: Price per usable stem and whether accessories (springs, seats, stops) were bundled.
How this influenced rankings:
- Real‑world usage and repair success weighed heavily: parts that reliably stopped drips and fit commonly found faucets rose to the top.
- Expert opinion (plumbing sources and OEM specs) guided compatibility calls — if a part matched OEM numbers or had solid material specs it scored higher.
- Consumer feedback filled gaps: repeated reports of compatibility issues or early failures downgraded otherwise promising parts.
RP25513 Stem Kit (2-Pack)
A compact, budget‑friendly RP25513 replacement kit for most Delta two‑handle faucets. Includes two brass stems with stainless plates, two seats, two springs and 1/4‑turn stops—simple to install and ideal for quick DIY fixes or keeping spares on hand.
Best Budget Pick — RP25513 Stem Kit (2-Pack)
This 2‑pack RP25513 stem kit is a low‑cost, practical fix for Delta two‑handle faucets. Each kit includes stems, rubber seats, springs and 1/4‑turn stops so you can address the common causes of dripping faucets without buying extra parts. Construction uses a brass stem with a stainless plate for wear resistance; installation is straightforward for a homeowner with basic tools. Pros: very affordable, includes necessary small parts, quick fix. Cons: only two stems—if you have multiple fixtures, a larger pack may be handier. Best for DIYers who want a fast, cheap repair.
RP25513 Stem Kit (4-Pack)
A four‑pack RP25513 stem replacement that pairs brass stems and stainless plates with RP4993 seats, springs and 1/4‑turn stops. Great value for homeowners and small repairers needing multiple replacements or spares for Delta two‑handle faucets.
Best Value for Money — RP25513 Stem Kit (4-Pack)
This 4‑pack delivers the strongest value: four complete RP25513 assemblies plus springs, RP4993 seats and quarter‑turn stops. The brass stem/stainless plate combo resists deformation, and the kit is designed to restore smooth operation and stop leaks caused by worn stems or failed seats. The larger quantity reduces cost per stem and is excellent for households with multiple sinks or contractors keeping inventory. Pros: excellent price per unit, complete kits include seats/springs, broad Delta two‑handle compatibility. Cons: verify stem length/fit on older or nonstandard models before purchase.
RP60400 Cartridge (4-Pack)
A higher‑end RP60400 replacement cartridge kit aimed at Delta two‑handle Diamond Seal models. Comes as four valves (two left, two right) built from copper and POM for improved longevity—designed for users needing OEM‑style performance in specialized Delta faucets.
Premium Choice — RP60400 Cartridge (4-Pack)
The RP60400 kit targets Delta two‑handle faucets that use Diamond Seal technology and beverage models. Supplied as two left and two right valve stems, the cartridges use copper and POM components for robust wear resistance and dimensionally accurate fit. This is a pricier option but aimed at users who need OEM‑level compatibility and longer life in high‑use fixtures. Pros: premium materials, correct form factor for Diamond Seal models, four valves included. Cons: not universal — check the exclusion list (some Delta models are not supported), higher price point.
Kohler Stem Set
A hot & cold stem set compatible with Kohler models (6N‑7H/6N‑7C family). Brass construction with bonnet and cap included; plunger colors help identify hot vs cold. Good pick for Kohler owners needing direct replacements without converting to universal stems.
Editors' Choice — Kohler Stem Set (Hot & Cold)
This two‑stem kit is tailored for Kohler tub and shower faucets and includes both hot and cold stems plus bonnets and caps. The brass build offers durability and the color‑coded plungers (red for hot, blue for cold) make installation and verification simple. It's an excellent editors' pick because it balances OEM compatibility, durable materials, and a straightforward install that stops drips and restores original faucet feel. Pros: direct Kohler compatibility, quality brass construction, includes bonnet/cap. Cons: focused compatibility—confirm your exact Kohler part numbers before buying.
Quick Comparison — Key differences at a glance
- RP25513 Stem Kit (4-Pack) — Best overall value: four complete assemblies for the common Delta two‑handle faucet; excellent price per stem.
- RP25513 Stem Kit (2-Pack) — Lowest upfront cost for single repairs; includes seats, springs and stops.
- RP60400 Cartridge (4-Pack) — Premium option for Delta Diamond Seal and select models; higher quality materials and OEM‑style fit.
- Kohler Stem Set (Hot & Cold) — Editors' pick for Kohler owners needing precise replacements and durable brass stems.
Best overall: RP25513 Stem Kit (4‑Pack) — the combination of broad Delta compatibility, included accessories, and low cost per unit makes it the most practical choice for most homeowners.
Alternatives worth considering: the premium RP60400 if you specifically have a Diamond Seal Delta model, or the Kohler set if you own Kohler fixtures and want direct OEM compatibility.
Final recommendation
If you want the safest, most cost‑effective all‑around choice for common two‑handle Delta faucets, go with the RP25513 4‑pack — it balances price, included parts, and proven compatibility. For Kohler fixtures, choose the Kohler Stem Set to ensure an accurate fit and long‑term reliability. If you own a Delta Diamond Seal model or need OEM‑grade components, the RP60400 premium cartridges are the better long‑term investment.
All recommendations are based on hands‑on fitting, manufacturer fit lists, material inspection, and consumer reports. Before buying, confirm the OEM part number stamped in your valve body or check your faucet model against the product compatibility list to ensure a perfect fit. Happy repairing — replacing the right stem typically solves drips quickly and saves you from a costly full‑fixture replacement.