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Author:
LoisLane1028 (LA)
I have a Delta single lever faucet in my kitchen that has started to drip. (Victorian, model # 155-RB-DST)
It normally ought to be a simple matter to remove the set screw in the handle then remove the handle, along with a couple other internal components and replace the valve cartridge, right?
But no. The genius who installed the faucet used plumber's putty inside the handle to ensure the the handle would NEVER come off. How can I soften/loosen the plumber's putty to enable me to remove the handle? (I know it's putty, because there was some stuck on the end of the set screw, and I dug a bit out of the screw hole.)
I tried using a blow dryer on it, to no avail. I just bought a heat gun, that's my next step.
Any other suggestions? Help?
The house is only 5 years old.
Edited 2 times.
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Author:
packy (MA)
it might not be putty. it could just be years of accumulation of soap.
fortunately you don't need to completely remove the set screw. just has to be backed out a couple of turns.
unfortunately, sometimes the handle corrodes stuck to the stem and needs to be forced upwards rather than just simply lifting off.
situations like this are why plumbers chuckle when someone calls and says "can you come change a washer for me. it will only take 5 minutes"..
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Author:
LoisLane1028 (LA)
I already tried brute force and ignorance. I even called my husband to help. LOL
Let's assume it IS plumber's putty, can anything be done? I don't fancy shelling out some $400 + to replace the faucet set.
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Author:
hj (AZ)
IF it is plumber's putty, all you need is a thin "pick" to break it up and pull it out. Dried putty is NOT "hard".
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Author:
North Carolina Plumber (NC)
Plumbers putty will not prevent a handle from being removed.
It sounds like you just need to use a bit more force.
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Author:
hj (AZ)
I will if it is inside the "screw hole".
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Author:
sum (FL)
If her husband is Superman he will be able to break off the putty or rust.
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Author:
packy (MA)
when superman is chasing a criminal, there is one place he can't go but we as plumbers can..
what is that place?
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Author:
hj (AZ)
If he were the size of an ant so he could crawl into the bolt hole.
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Author:
hj (AZ)
A Kryptonite factory with a clogged drain.
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Author:
packy (MA)
wrong, guess again..
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Author:
packy (MA)
my third grade teacher 'sister casilda of the tabernacle door left hanging' would be proud of you..
you get the gold star on your forehead..
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Author:
hj (AZ)
Ah!, but, there is only one way out and Superman could use his X-Ray vision to track him until he has to leave, and THEN he would catch him.
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