When the solid tubing that supplies water to a faucet or toilet leaks, you have two choices. You can either try to work with the existing tubing, or far easier, you can start over with flexible tubing.
The trick to replacement is getting the right size fittings for each end of the tubing. The difference between one size and type and another is subtle, even to those who’ve done this a few times. To make sure you get it right the first time, take your old supply tube with its fittings, and ask a clerk to select a proper length replacement with compatible fittings.

Old House
Be prepared to replace the shutoff valve as well as the tubing. Old valves that no one has turned for years may spring a leak when suddenly called into service.
First, you’ll have to shut off the main valve to your house. Then use a wrench or pliers to unscrew the old valve from the nipple in the wall. Place a bucket under the pipe and have someone turn the water on briefly to flush rust from the pipe.
If the old nipple is damaged and recessed too far in the wall to get a pipe wrench on it, try an internal pipe wrench to save your plaster.
Buy a replacement valve with female thread to screw onto the nipple. Wrap the nipple with Teflon tape, then screw on the new valve with an adjustable wrench. Be sure to point the valve outlet toward the fixture as you finish the last turn. Turn the main valve back on and test for leaks.

Step By Step: Supply Tubing Repairs
1. First, try to tighten the fitting that leaks. A quarter or half turn with a wrench may do the trick.
2. If that fails, shut off the angle stop to the supply tubing, remove the tubing and take it with its fittings to your plumbing supply or home improvement store. Fit the replacement in place of the old tubing and tighten the fittings with an adjustable wrench or pliers. Tighten one quarter turn past hand-tight, or as recommended by the manufacturer.

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