Of course, everyone uses their faucets differently, but I'm glad my delta doesn't retract automatically. As I'd mentioned in another thread, I pull out my faucet and fill large stockpots, resting the head on the edge of the pot - using it as a pot filler. It frees up my hands to do something else. I also find that if I pull out the hose and wash out pots or whatever else needs to be washed, I get less splashing if the head is lower in the sink. I'd hate to fight against an automatic retraction feature. When I'm done, I just use my hand to push the faucet head back towards its dock where the magnet attracts it the last inch or so. Helene

Just to update with one more detail. Now it snaps back to the magnet just as it should. I don't have the install guide anymore, but I'll bet it called for some oil. It only makes sense since it's supposed to move and glide smoothly. Most things in the world that are supposed to do that need oil. Mineral oil does not go rancid, and is food safe, so it seemed like a good choice. I'm so happy with the faucet now. I was starting to hate it, but now it's perfect. Syllabub, try the mineral oil and see how it works. Just pull the faucet all the way out, coat your hands with a little mineral oil and rub it on the hose. I also went under the sink and rubbed a little on the portion of the hose that is visible down there when the faucet is retracted. That part probably wan't necessary, but I was trying to coat all the hose that would be gliding up and down.

If you need an excuse to replace the faucet, now's the time. Go for it! I have no experience with pull down spouts/sprays, metal spray hoses or how long they last. I've always had a separate spray with a plastic hose and they last perhaps 6 to 9 years with my use. They are not that hard to replace and can be found in any hardware store. I'd think that any hose, plastic or metal that is pulled and moved and rubbed by the guide/opening will eventually leak. The flexible hoses under the sink that connect the faucet to the supply last much longer because there is no movement or abrasion. These, of course, should always be metal, since the plastic ones can burst unexpectedly when they are under constant pressure. For the faucet spray, the hose is only under pressure when the faucet is on.

Jim, are you suggesting this as a hose that lives under the sink? Joeseph, I have the weight all the way to the top when I pull the hose out, I need 3 more feet of hose.