Bathtub faucet handle will not come off

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Theodore

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Hi,

While my hot water bathtub valve readily comes off by unscrewing the hex set screw underneath the handle, the cold water handle has no such luck and the hex set screw seems rusted solid. And now the hex screw top has been stripped by my attempts. Will a handle puller work on this?? There's no center shaft to bear down upon with the center screw of a handle puller.
Or... am I getting out the big crow bar, and some 2x4s to protect the tile?
Advice appreciated.

Regards,
Theodore



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Theodore

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Ok, let me ask a related question: what method of forcing removal of this handle would cause the LEAST amount of damage to everything else, especially the finishes and soldered joints?
Should I try to drill out the set screw and just deal with potentially:
1. replacing the handle
2. keeping the handle and just tapping a larger set screw in the handle
3. replacing the stem/valve cartridge

Other suggestions?
 

hj

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1. the screw is harder than the handle so you will probably damage the handle
2. Probably have to replace the handle,(and stem), because you may have to saw it, and the stem to get it off
 
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