What type of cartridge is in this tap?

[Neil23]

For reasons I can't go into - I need to try to do this as a DIY - not by choice.

Essentially two downstairs basin taps have stopped working - over time - I guess a build-up of limescale?

I would like to try to get one working.

One has a slight trickle when turned on fully, but if I pull upwards on the 'tap', the water increases slightly - does that help indicate what the problem or the cartridge is?

Questions
1. is it possible to remove the limescale without turning off the water? (I have tried a balloon full of vinegar and put over the end of the tap but this didn't make a difference)

2. Is it possible to switch the cartridge and casing without turning the water off - I have seen someone do this on a Youtube video - with a small amount of splash.

3. Can anyone advise exactly what cartridge this is likely to be - ie the thread? I believe there are different sizes - how do I know what size this is? Is it possible to measure the outside

4. And in the first instance, what type of 'plyers' to get the knurled (or not) nut off the top?

5. Any other suggestions?

Many thanks

 

[ShaunCorbs]

Internal limescale ? No

Not for a novice as if mains could end up flooding the place

1/2 rubber washer tap cartridge

There’s loads eg different spline count to match the head

Pump pliers will damage them