Replies

1. 
   woodway | Nov 12, 2009 10:42pm | #1

   We need more information. If just the handle has broken then local hardware store should be able to provide a replacement. Since your probably going to need some advice on "HOW TO" I strongly suggest you bypass Lowes / Home Depot and find either a good local small hardware store or look for "plumbing Supply" in phone directory.

   I don't understand why you need needle nose pliers. A Phillips screwdriver would seem to be the tool of choice here. Is this a two handle shower (hot/col) or one? Is it interconnected with tub? Just saying the handle is broken may seem to to describe the problem but from this side of the screen, it doesn't say much.

1. 
   user-111700 | Nov 13, 2009 12:01am | #4

   yes you do need more info, its a one  handle kind of plastic teardrop shaped with 1 long screw holding it on.it had a cap cover, round plastic.I was afraid someone would ask for a pic and I don't have the time to mess with uploading, newbie here.I think I'll look for a hardware store. Nothing at Lowes or Home Depot but replacing the whole faucet. Thanks everybody for the replies !

1. 
   woodway | Nov 13, 2009 12:08am | #5

   If the knob is broken, that's all you need. Don't let them sell you something you don't need ...Yet! Keep us informed. I think you'll be happier if you avoid Lowes and HD all together. They know less then you do and by definition, can't answer your questions.

1. 
   user-111700 | Nov 13, 2009 02:12am | #7

   The knob is broken, and the set screw broke off inside the works. I tried to get it out by screwing another screw into it, and temporarily it worked. Another question, can I replace the whole thing without opening up the wall behind? do they now come with user friendly instructions, or am I insulting all you plumbers out there trying to do it myself. We actually replaced one in our old house, replaced the wall and put in new tub surround. But I'm stumped on this fiberglass tub and wall in one. Not so happy about opening up the wall if I don't have to.

1. 
   PaulBinCT | Nov 13, 2009 02:34am | #8

   If you were able to screw another screw into the stem, I suspect there isn't really a screw broken off inside, hopefully you haven't damaged the threads in the process.  As others have advised, the odds are pretty good you need nothing more than a new handle.  But a valve replacement is almost certainly not something you are going to be able to DIY.  Whether you'll need to open up a wall depends on a few things but in either case unless you can sweat pipe, etc you won't be able to do it yourself...PaulB

   http://www.finecontracting.com

2. 
   woodway | Nov 13, 2009 02:53am | #10

   Yes, you can replace most of the functioning parts of the faucet works without cutting into the wall. Unfortunately you have to go through the "handle off stage" before you can begin the "cartridge replacement" stage. Once the handle is off, if you decide to get a new cartridge for the working part of the faucet, you'll need to buy a special puller (usually). If the faucet was turning off and on OK, and not dripping when it was off, then it's likely in fairly good condition. A simple handle replacement will probably solve your problems. I've found that in situations like you're describing, a hack saw will often trump a needle nose pliers. Simply cut the handle off of the valve stem. It requires some care and time because you don't want to cut the stem itself, just the plastic handle. You want to "split" the handle down the middle so that it falls off when you cut far enough through. Go to the hardware store, in this case Lowes or Home Depot will suffice, and see if they have books of plumbing for sale. Fifteen minutes looking through the pages will likely give you a good idea. Also, look through their supply of faucet handles to see how your handle is made so that you get a good idea of how to cut it off.

3. 
   DanH | Nov 13, 2009 02:58am | #11

   Replacing the entire valve is pretty complicated, but on some models you can replace the "guts" of the valve (again, with parts from the hardware store), often including the stem that the handle attaches to.Is this the handle: http://www.faucetpartsplus.com/product_p/461790.htmNote that Sterling is a brand of Danco, so you may find the parts under than name.
   A strong nation, like a strong person, can afford to be gentle, firm, thoughtful, and restrained. It can afford to extend a helping hand to others. It's a weak nation, like a weak person, that must behave with bluster and boasting and rashness and other signs of insecurity. --Jimmy Carter

4. 
   BillHartmann | Nov 13, 2009 04:01am | #13

   Danco is distributor/manufacture for plumbing repair parts.They supply parts for many brands.Sterling is a Kohler brand, but they discontinued it.http://www.supplyht.com/Articles/Bath_and_Kitchen_News/730af8ef843a8010VgnVCM100000f932a8c0____"The Kohler Co. has discontinued production of its Sterling brand of bathroom and kitchen faucets, including Nova[TM], Starflo[TM], Gemini[TM], Tribute[TM], Eminence[TM], Progression[TM], and bath/shower drains and accessories, according to a company announcement.This was a strategic business decision to address its customers' evolving needs in a competitive industry category, Kohler said.The company is accelerating its investment in product development and manufacturing of its Vikrell bathing fixtures and kitchen sinks, shower doors, vitreous china toilets and lavatories and stainless steel sinks, according to Pat Albregts, vice president/Sterling.Sterling committed to filling faucet orders through May 1 and is supporting warranty claims of Sterling faucets currently in the field.
   ".
   William the Geezer, the sequel to Billy the Kid - Shoe

5. 
   user-111700 | Nov 13, 2009 04:03am | #14

   thanks Dan for the link, it was just what I was looking for ! hope it works. Thanks again for saving me all that running around. You guys are all so helpful .Susan

6. 
   BillHartmann | Nov 13, 2009 03:57am | #12

   http://www.candlsupply.com/products/plumbing/Single%20Control%20Valves%20sterling%20faucet.htm.
   William the Geezer, the sequel to Billy the Kid - Shoe

2. 
   DickRussell | Nov 13, 2009 01:27am | #6

   Unless you already have the handle off, that might be the hardest part, other than the truckin around for a replacement. Those handles get fairly well corroded onto the shaft. Before you put the new one on, use a little silicone or vaseline as lubricant on the spline.

2. 
   YesMaam27577 | Nov 12, 2009 10:59pm | #2

   In general, the center of the plastic handle is just a plug that covers a single screw. Remove the screw and pull the handle off.

   Take it to the home center -- they usually have quite a few different ones to choose from.

   I won't be laughing at the lies when I'm gone,
   And I can't question how or when or why when I'm gone;
   I can't live proud enough to die when I'm gone,
   So I guess I'll have to do it while I'm here. (Phil Ochs)

3. 
   Shacko | Nov 12, 2009 11:06pm | #3

   If you would give more info. like the model, how many handles or the style, we would have a better chance of giving a good answer. BTW they do make a lot of parts for Sterling.

    

   "If all else fails, read the directions"
4. 
   DanH | Nov 13, 2009 02:44am | #9

   Yep, most better hardware stores should have the replacement. (Don't go to a "home center" -- they probably will just give you a dumb look.)

   Usually you pry off a plug in the center and remove a screw to remove the handle. (Try not to drop the screw down the drain.) A few handles come off differently, eg, by loosening a setscrew under the bottom of the handle.

   A strong nation, like a strong person, can afford to be gentle, firm, thoughtful, and restrained. It can afford to extend a helping hand to others. It's a weak nation, like a weak person, that must behave with bluster and boasting and rashness and other signs of insecurity. --Jimmy Carter