Unremovable bathtub handles

M

madameanglaise

New Member

Messages

2

Reaction score

0

Points

0

• Dec 6, 2008

• #1

My bathtub handles appear to be unremovable. It seems that the last house owner glued them on with something. I am not sure what I can use to remove them. I had the bathtub itself refinished and have to be carefull that I don't damage the surface with harsh chemicals. Does anyone have a sugesstion to how I can remove them. they are this shape L and sit flush against a small round back plate.

 

Jimbo

Plumber

Messages

8,918

Reaction score

18

Points

0

Location

San Diego, CA

• Dec 6, 2008

• #2

A picture would help. Often, if you remove the screw, then a handle puller will do the trick. Glue? Who knows. But if they are just stuck with mineral deposits, try spraying with vinegar, and repeat several times over a day.

 

Sponsor

Paid Advertisement

• 1 minute ago

• Add bookmark
• ##

 

M

madameanglaise

New Member

Messages

2

Reaction score

0

Points

0

• Dec 6, 2008

• #3

Unfortunately there are no screws. I don't believe it's mineral deposits because all the bathroom fixtures were redone shortly before I moved in but I will see about a handle puller. Thanks

 

Verdeboy

In the Trades

Messages

2,041

Reaction score

6

Points

0

• Dec 6, 2008

• #4

A handle puller requires that there be a screw hole. It needs something to push down against that is NOT the handle in order for the handle to be pulled off. There is most likely a "button" that needs to be pried off to allow you to see the screws. Once you remove the screws, a handle puller can then remove the handles.

 

Last edited: Dec 6, 2008

Cass

Plumber

Messages

5,947

Reaction score

7

Points

0

Location

Ohio

• Dec 7, 2008

• #5

Use a torch and S L O W L Y heat the handle till you can remove it with a leather glove...

I use 2 small pieces of teflon tape on the spline when replacing the handles so future removal will be a breeze...

 

hj

Master Plumber

Messages

33,603

Reaction score

1,042

Points

113

Location

Cave Creek, Arizona

Website

www.terrylove.com

• Dec 7, 2008

• #6

handles

DO NOTHING until you post some pictures or you may wind up having to replace the entire valve. Or call a plumber to fix the valve before you do irreparable damage.

 

Redwood

Master Plumber

Messages

7,335

Reaction score

13

Points

0

Location

Connecticut

• Dec 7, 2008

• #7

hj said:

DO NOTHING until you post some pictures or you may wind up having to replace the entire valve. Or call a plumber to fix the valve before you do irreparable damage.

Click to expand...

I would heed this advice!