How do I fix a leaky Moen 2-handled faucet?

Question

I've searched all over the internet for help on this one to no avail. Here are the details:

- the hot handle is the leaky one (when it's off, the faucet isn't leaking)

- my understanding is that a 2-handled faucet is a compression faucet

- getting the cap and the handle off is a piece of cake

- everything I've read says the next step is removing the valve stem

- however, what looks to be the valve stem (I'm not exactly an expert on this stuff) is a white plastic piece that is attached to a piece of round, threaded metal

- the white plastic piece is actually two pieces - one that spins and one that doesn't move

- i've tried to unscrew this from the threaded metal, but to no avail

- i've tried to unscrew the threaded metal, again to no avail

- because I can't remove this piece, I have no access to any washers

I'm at a loss here. If anyone can help, I'd greatly appreciate it.

Answer 1

Check under faucet repair  http://www.doityourself.com/scat/plumbin...

Answer 2

Sounds like you're making progress. Here's an exploded view of a faucet to help you idendify all the parts, along with  instructions on how to make the repair. Hope it helps!

http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/article/...

Answer 3

the "this old house" guy is close but its a whole different ballgame.

There is a nut that holds the plastic stem in place.

Remove that nut and give the stem a slight twist and it should just pull straight out

reasemble in reverse

Answer 4

turn water off, unscrew nut, put handle back on w/s***w, pull!!!. that will remove cartridge. Take cartridge to hardware store or big box store or better yet, call them and see if they have moen cartridges for 2 handle faucets. note ( remember how it looks (cartridge) before removing) get new part and do reverse to install