Shower Stems & Handles

[Nancy Culhane]

Just replaced my Eljer shower stems & bought Eljer style handles. One handle is a bit loose. I'm trying to avoid
the new stem being stripped (universal handles stripped the previous ones) & was wondering if applying a bit of pipe thread compound would keep them stable. I'm concerned that the handles would then be difficult to remove for maintenance. Any suggestions, anyone found a good universal handle? thanks

 

[Jeff H Young]

just glue them or use caulk . And fix it right next time, if you don't want to now

 

[Sponsor]

 

[Mr tee]

It sounds like there is something wrong with either the handle or the stem. If you put the handle from the good side on the loose side is there still a problem? You might need to replace the handle, which is more apt to be the problem than the stem.

 

[Nancy Culhane]

It's definitely the handle that is a bit bigger than it should be. I wanted to make due with the new handles, which is why I was thinking of teflon tape to fill in the gap. Today, I was able to find different supplier & ordered another set. Hopefully these will be a good fit. Thanks for your help.

 

[Jeff H Young]

thought they were stripped out just a little loose Teflon tape might help .

 

[Nancy Culhane]

The old stems were stripped. I replaced the stems & bought new Eljer style handles. The new handles are not a snug fit.

 

[Jeff H Young]

well try your Teflon tape it might help it takes 3 minutes and is easy. or take handles back and get another brand its probably aftermarket and not genuine stems or handles

 

[Nancy Culhane]

I spoke with the manufacturer of the handles, finally. I was told to use Teflon tape. And yes both the stems & handles were aftermarket. Thanks for your help.