Delta single-handle kitchen faucet; set screw is stuck

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Delta single-handle kitchen faucet; set screw is stuck

Author: bam99 (SC)

My 20-year-old kitchen single-handle faucet has a slow drip, so Delta sent me a new cartridge!
Then I tried WD-40, and a heat gun with WD-40, and I just can't remove the set screw (with hex wrench) so that the handle will pop off. How much heat should I be applying? I torqued the hex wrench until it started to twist the wrench. How the heck can I get the set screw out? Should I just increase the pressure on my hex wrench until the screw comes out or it breaks? And if (when) it breaks, how do I get the valve off the sink?
I can almost (but not quite) picture a complete kitchen remodel just because the faucet has a slow drip. Advice, please!

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Re: Delta single-handle kitchen faucet; set screw is stuck

Author: bernabeu (SC)

assuming you have a good 'bite' with the allen wrench (which apparently you have) twist until either the wrench snaps, the screw strips, or the screw comes off

worst case scenario will only cost you some faucet parts -- 'stuck' handle can be sawzalled off requiring only new handle and ball/stem

? time for an actual plumber ?

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"Measure Twice & Cut Once" - Retired U.A. Local 1 & 638

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Re: Delta single-handle kitchen faucet; set screw is stuck
Author: sum (FL) are you using those small L shaped allen wrench or a more robust T handle one?
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Re: Delta single-handle kitchen faucet; set screw is stuck
Author: hj (AZ) I insert the Allen wrench, heat the set screw area with a small torch while twisting the wrench. When the temperature is right, it will unscrew.
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