how do u get a screw out of a shower faucet handle?

Question

i have a leaky faucet and i've tried everything to get it to stop..
but i cant get the screw out of the handle so wat do i do?????
plllzz help

Answer 1

I wish you explained why you can't get the screw out... The hardest part I have with that task is getting the dang cover off so I can get at the screw. All I can suggest there is find something thin and metal and pry...
But it sounds like you've gotten that far...are you trying to turn the screw in the correct direction (counter clockwise)? If so, maybe you just need to flag down a manly man to give it a try....If its rusted, you can try spraying in some penetrating oil, like WD-40...let it work its way in and try again...

Answer 2

Lots of answers. If the WD40 doesn't do it, try Liquid Wrench. It is more specialized in its purpose. After spraying, tap the handle to help it get into the cracks.

Do you even need to remove the handle? I have sometimes been able to work on a faucet with the handle still on. It's worth a look.

Cutting off the screw is a lot harder than some people think. You are supposed to use one that is made of brass, but sometimes people put steel ones in there. Brass is soft, so you can try.

I have done with with a Dremel tool, but it is work. You can also try to drill it out, but again, I have never been thrilled with doing that. Sounds easier than it is. If you have decided that you are willing to replace the fixture if you cannot fix it, give these a try. Just be aware that you could cause enough damage that the fixture will need replacing.

If you do damage the stem, you might be able to buy a new one. Hardware stores sell some. It is very hard to match to the right one, but it might be possible. There are stores that specialize in old plumbing parts that might help too.

Once you get the screw out, you may have a problem removing the handle. If you have to remove the handle and still have not got it, they make a special tool that is a handle puller. It is like a gear puller, but is designed just for handles. Don't know if you can rent one, but the last time I bought one, it was very cheap.

It's purpose is to concentrate the energy on pulling the handle so it minimizes the potential for damage. You can try hitting the screwdriver while it is on the screw, but personally, I wouldn't. Too much chance for damage.

At least one person suggested just cutting the handle off and getting a new one. If you are careful, that would work. Again, it is sometimes not as easy as it sounds. I use a Dremel for that too. Fiberglass reinforced blade, the regular ones are too weak. Buy several, you will break them.

Answer 3

Ordinary automatic transmission fluid is a terrific thing to penetrate rusty bolts and screws and help you get them out.

Here is how I would get that screw out. I would soak that brass piece in a cup of automatic transmission fluid for a day. Then try to back it out. Remove that old rubber with a knife first so the stuff has a better chance of penetrating the screw.

If that doesnt work, Then I would put that thing in a drill press vise. Clamp it good using a rag or leather around it. Place it under the drill press spindle. Then Id put a regular screw driver slot into the drill press chuck and tightly come down onto that screw with the drill press handle. Get it on there really tight and into that slot.

Then simply take a cresent wrench to that thing and back it out of there. You got the best chance this way because you will be hard onto that screw with that drill press force. Much harder than you could ever with the hand and ordinary screw driver.

Go to a neighbor or friend if you dont have a drill press. You can remove darn tight screws of any kind using this method without stripping off the heads of them.

Answer 4

Remove Shower Handle

Answer 5

make sure what type of screw it is. if it's a single handle faucet (Delta, Peerless, etc.) it is a set screw. the WD40 will help and if it's a metal handle heat it with a torch before going at it.

If it's a 2 or 3 handle faucet, once again, the WD40, but then, put the screwdriver firmly in the slot of the screw, and TAP it several times with pliers or another screwdriver, leave in place and then turn it COUNTER-CLOCKWISE this does 2 things, it sets the driver firmly to prevent stripping the screw head, and breaks loose any corrosion or oxidation that may be preventing it from turning.DO NOT SMACK IT WITH A HAMMER!!!

Answer 6

You could try drilling the head of the screw off to allow you to remove the handle. This will expose the shank of the screw enough to get vise grips on it. Or just cut the handle off, once the handle is gone you can replace the faucets insides and just get a new handle at a plumbing supply store.

Answer 7

hard water causes this freezing up of the threads. try wd40 with several coats periodically. you probably have to try a drill and a ez-out extractor. it turns counter-clockwise to remove it .the hardware store will know what you'll asking for. worst case scenario ; you'll have to remove and replace the whole faucet assembly. it's called a diverter .you may want to open up the drywall on the opposite side of that wall for access to do the repair work. drywall is easier to repair than tile. make sure it requires a screwdriver. becuz it could be a allen screw that yur struggling with. then go buy a allen wrench set if needed. use a flashlite for a better inspection

Answer 8

You may be using the wrong tool. Screws on shower faucets are usually a set screw and require an allen key to remove it not a screw driver

Answer 9

I am guessing it has a cover over it. Get a small screwdriver and pry the cover off. Then you can get to the screw. If it is stripped, try to get it out. Work at it....then get a new faucet.

Answer 10

Is that the screw or just a plastic or chrome cover.? The screws are made of brass and will come out if you got a proper sized screwdriver.