Removing stuck handle from Moentrol Shower Body

I have a Moen Moentrol shower body installed ~1993. I need to expose the shower body to repair or replace the balancing spool. I was able to remove the outside portion of the chrome handle. Below that is a brass colored part that attaches directly to the water cartridge via set screw. The set screw was removed but I cannot loosen the part. I cannot get the escutcheon off unless this part is removed. I'm sure it is related to the years of lime deposited. I tried squirting vinegar and waiting with no success. Moens only recommendation was to cut it off. A bit too drastic at this point.

Any suggestions??

My first post to this forum and any responses are appreciated.
Tnanks!

Below that is a brass colored part that attaches directly to the water cartridge via set screw.

Click to expand...

this is a little confusing as your describing it. Can you post a picture of the valve and any parts that you have removed?

Here is a photot pf the part in question

Here is the part in question....it is the remaining part of the handle assembly that attaches directly to the cartridge. The set screw was removed but the part still will not come off and I cannot remove the escutcheon plate until I get this off

You have some calcification around that peice. Try WD40 or PB blaster. Some sort of lubricant that can break up the calcium build up. Light tapping.

If this fails, cut the moen stem so that the handle adapter is still in tact. You will be replacing the cartridge any way.Moen cartridges are free of charge directly from moen. You can work on getting the smaller peice out away from the faucet. As a matter of fact, MOEN may send you a new adapter if requested/needed. In most cases free of charge.

Use a handle puller to take it apart without damaging ANYTHING.