[mrdodge]

My daughters single handle tub faucet needs adjusted a lil hotter, 10 min. job right? Not for me, I've tried 4 different times to break the handle set screw loose to no avail. It does have buildup around the screw which I've soaked in vinegar, no help.
Most recently I've smacked it with a handheld impact driver, still seized. I haven't stripped the screw yet, but if it doesn't free soon that will happen.
Any advice much appreciated!

 

[jmon]

Yea they can get seized up pretty bad.

If you end up stripping it, an extractor set might work. If not, drill it out and put in a new set screw.

 

[WhatRnsdownhill]

My daughters single handle tub faucet needs adjusted a lil hotter, 10 min. job right? Not for me, I've tried 4 different times to break the handle set screw loose to no avail. It does have buildup around the screw which I've soaked in vinegar, no help.
Most recently I've smacked it with a handheld impact driver, still seized. I haven't stripped the screw yet, but if it doesn't free soon that will happen.
Any advice much appreciated!

buy some pb blaster spray and soak it a few days with that..then try..

 

[carpdad]

If you know or post a photo of the brand, it may be easier to replace the handle. Next time, use plumbers grease on the threads. If it is corrosion, you may want to prepare for cutting the handle out. Careful cutting with a grinder. Homedpot and look at similar handles and how the screw sets on the valve stem. I wish you luck.:smile:

 

[ZTMAN]

If the blaster doesn't work , before you go cutting any thing, try your torx bit in an impact driver. It may seem like over kill, but the vibrations will knock it loose before it strips

 

[mrdodge]

Thanks everyone for the informative replies, an impact is the next step. I can't believe I've twisted the shaft on four 1/8" allens fooling with this thing! As far as PB Blaster haven't heard of it before would say Autozone or a supply house carry it?
Thanks Again!

 

[mrdodge]

Edit: Just researched pb blaster, I'll use it before the impact comes out, Thanks Guys

 

[jmon]

Thanks everyone for the informative replies, an impact is the next step. I can't believe I've twisted the shaft on four 1/8" allens fooling with this thing! As far as PB Blaster haven't heard of it before would say Autozone or a supply house carry it?
Thanks Again!

Probably, very common item. May be cheaper at a big box store like hd or lowes.

 

[WhatRnsdownhill]

Edit: Just researched pb blaster, I'll use it before the impact comes out, Thanks Guys

if you can get some heat on the set screw after soaking with pb, that will also make a world of difference..

 

[Bud9051]

Adding to What's suggestion, I have heated the allen wrench while inserted into the set screw. By alternating heat and liquid freeze (?) I was able to then remove the screw.

I also have allen head sockets and adapting one of them to an impact drill where you can set the drive so it chatters may help.

Bud

 

[mikegp]

PB Blaster can also be purchased at automotive stores.

 

[FrodoOne]

My daughters single handle tub faucet needs adjusted a lil hotter, 10 min. job right? Not for me, I've tried 4 different times to break the handle set screw loose to no avail. It does have buildup around the screw which I've soaked in vinegar, no help.
Most recently I've smacked it with a handheld impact driver, still seized. I haven't stripped the screw yet, but if it doesn't free soon that will happen.
Any advice much appreciated!

I know that this is a (relatively) old post
BUT !
Have you tried to heat the set screw with the tip of an electric soldering iron, together with the application of a QUANTITY of resin-cored solder - holding the molten solder in position for at least 10 seconds.

No. It will not solder together, nor do you want it to.

The application of quite intense heat to the set-screw will cause it to expand and (hopefully) break any layer of corrosion around it. It may then be possible to move it.