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I cover the steps on how to replace a Moen shower cartridge with a single handle faucet. The steps are the same for a kitchen faucet with the same Moen cartridge.
The most popular Moen cartridge is the 1200 brass style or the 1225 plastic body. You can replace an old cartridge with either model.
In most of the packaging of a new Moen cartridge is a small white plastic tool to help replace the old cartridge. Place the removal tool onto the old cartridge and seat it between the two ears that stick up on cartridge. Use pliers or a wrench to twist the tool and loosen the old cartridge.
Remove the plastic tool and grab the cartridge stem and pull it out of the valve.
To install the new cartridge, pull the stem out so it is in the open position. This makes it easier to push into the valve. Grease up the o-rings with plumbers grease. In old faucets, the buildup of minerals and rust can cut an o-ring if it is not greased up. This will also help add life to the o-rings. Plumber’s Grease is a silicone based grease that will lubricate and protect rubber parts. It also helps keep cartridges and valve stems from corroding. Vaseline and other petroleum based products are not recommended for any rubber parts. Petroleum based lubricants will swell and soften rubber parts and o-rings.
You need to align the tabs sticking up on the new cartridge with the slot for the retainer clip. The clip needs to go around the tabs to hold them in place. Replace the retainer clip.
Now replace all the parts that were removed and test the faucet.
If the hot and cold are reversed when you use the handle, only remove the handle and spin the stem 180 degrees. Do not remove the clip or cartridge, just spin the stem.