I am trying to remove the shower valve handle off a 20 year old unit. It has a chrome plated brass handle. When I removed the plastic cap off the front there was no screws attaching it to the valve. There is a small hole on the bottom side of the handle but I could not see a screw head inside the hole. How do I remove the handle?
Plumbing - American Standard - One Handle Shower Only Faucet 2000.501.295
Answers & Comments
Hi Denny--
It's a good idea to valve off the water to the fixture in question before you begin, as you can get wet doing this.
Inside that small hole you found should be an allen screw--of what size I am unsure. A standard-sized allen pack should have the size necessary.
Experiment by selecting the smallest available size, inserting it into the hole, and then trying to unscrew. If you don't feel anything catch, try the next size up.
Once loosened, the allen screw should come all the way out--be careful not to drop it down the drain!
With the screw removed, you should be able to remove the handle by pulling the handle gently away from the wall. Rocking the handle perpincularly can help, too.
If the handle has been on for a great while, more muscle may be necessary. Sometimes I sneak a flatblade screwdriver--wrapped in a cotton rag--between the handle and the wall plate and, with gentle pressure, pry the handle enough to loosen the bond between handle and control stem. Be patient!
Hope this helps,
Joe.