American Standard - Estate 8" handle removal and drain

[Strong son]

Hello,

I love this faucet but I do not love trying to fix it.
My current problems are the left side (hot) handle is tough to move (tight) and I cannot seem to connect the popup to the handle (tried 6x over the last few months. so i just removed the popup altogether).

My main question is how do I remove the left side handle. The instructions say "
Pull HANDLE (1) “UP” firmly to release from PLASTIC INSERT (6)." I have tried my best
but it will not budge. Do I even need to do this? I want to do since I assume the cartridge is bad
or it needs some lubricant?

Thank you...


https://www.fergusonshowrooms.com/product/American-Standard-A7722801-Polished-Chrome-1007564?Ntt=estate&Ns=AvailabilitySort|0||Primary_Finish|1||Sort_Order|1&term=estate

 

[Breplum]

The pop up is engaged by unscrewing the lever nut part under the sink, pulling the lever out slightly and then engaging.
The valve handle: Maybe you have a integrated handle escutcheon and need to unscrew the escutcheon and the handle will come up with it.
If you have the right instructions for a plastic insert, it is certainly sometimes difficult to pop off, but I have never ever seen a lever handle use a plastic insert.

 

[Sponsor]

 

[Marlinman]

It could be either the lever/escutcheon or cartridge. Here's the instructions and parts sheet.

Change Direction of the Handle

• Turn valves to OFF position.
• Turn off water supplies.
• Pull HANDLE (1) “UP” firmly to release from PLASTIC INSERT (6).
• Remove SCREW (3) and pull off PLASTIC INSERT (2).
• Remove RETAINING O-RING (4).
• Lift and turn STOP WASHER (5) 90˚. Replace RETAINING O-RING (4).
• Re-install HANDLE ASSEMBLY.

To Change Cartridge:

• Remove HANDLE (1), ADAPTER (2) and SCREW (3) via steps above.
• Remove CARTRIDGE (7) by pulling up on it after rotating CARTRIDGE NUT (9) counter clockwise.