Bathtub handle detached from wall, can't take off entirely

[Karen]

Hi there,
I have a leaky hot water handle (knob?) in my bathtub and am trying to remove it so I can replace the parts inside that may be causing the problem. I read in the forums that the handle as a whole is attached to the tile behind it, so I used an exacto and was able to detach and pull the handle away from the wall, but now the part of the handle that turns (to adjust flow) is connected to something, which is keeping it from coming completely off the stem (right term?). The static part of the knob and the twisting part can still move independently of one another. What could that part be connected to? I've already removed the screw from the very front of the handle (that screws in through the center of it toward the wall behind it), so I have no idea what it could be stuck on now. Thanks for any help you can offer!

[arkayassoc]

Karen,

Welcome to the DIY Forum.

First, we need to understand where the leak is? Is it leaking around the handle (if so, see the recent post dealing with this problem), or is the problem that the faucet is dripping (valve stem washer)?

Sometimes the handle is corroded onto the stem, so you may need to spray it with penetrating oil, or vinegar, tap it with something (lightly so as not to break an ear off the handle).

I think the static part of the knob you are referring to is the escutcheon, which is a decorative seal, to keep water from going back thru the wall. Sometimes the packing nut is in front of the escutcheon, and sometimes behind it, so you may need to remove it, but that should be easy after you get the handle off.

[Karen]

Thank you so much for your reply!

The faucet itself is dripping, not the handle. I believe that the handle is probably corroded to the stem, as you say, and, the escutcheon is what I've removed from the wall.

The handle/knob is cyllindrical in shape, not an "L" or a lever, etc., so I can't figure out how to get vinegar in there, any ideas?

I think I can see the packing nut behind the handle, and I assume that's what I need to remove to get behind and take out a washer or whatever is leaking? or is the nut what causes the leak and tightening or loosening that will fix the problem? Sorry for my extreme lack of knowledge, I probably should call a plumber, but it seems like I'm so close to a solution.

Thanks again.

[Karen]

Oh yeah, I can access 2 nuts behind the escutcheon, so if there's just a bolt I need to tighten then I can probably do that, but if I need to get behind that stuff, then I do need to get the knob off.

[Mike Swearingen]

There is a handle retaining screw under middle of the handle cap (pry this little cap off with a knife point to get to the screw).
Remove that screw. If the handle still won't come off, get an inexpensive handle-puller at a hardware store to pull it off. Than you can get to the rest of it more easily.
Good luck!
Mike

[arkayassoc]

Karen, follow what Mike said to get the handle off. If it is a problem with the faucet dripping, all you need to do is replace the valve stem washer (a rubber washer, possibly flat, possibley cone shaped). However you will have to remove the handle, the packing nut and the valve stem. Once you have the valve stem out, take it to a hardware store or Home Depot type store, and they should be able to give you the replacement washer.

If you need more help, post back.