I am having a difficult time trying to find out how to remove a bathtub faucet handle. The only thing readable on the cover is "niedecken" and "Kohler". It is similar to a hotel tub handle - long, single handle that turns clockwise. There are 2 screws that hold the cover behind the handle on. And one large screw into the center of the handle. The two screws release the cover, but the handle screw does nothing to release or loosen the handle (the size of the handle prevents the cover from being removed). I have turned off the water and tugged on the handle. Tried turning the handle as far clockwise as it will go.
Can anyone provide the proper way to remove this type of handle? When I tug on it, it sure feels like it's still connected to the plumbing behind the wall. There does not seem to be any kind of "button" or release point anywhere on the handle.
Thanks so much for any help.

 

drumstruck, Welcome to the DIY Forums.
The problem is most likely calcium deposits. In bath areas this is a constant problem. You will have to wiggle, pull, and swear to get it off. To make it a bit easier, try soaking a rag with vinegar and wrapping it around the handle. Let it sit for a while. This seems to loosen deposits. You may still have to pry it off. Good luck.

 

Hello: drumstruck

The stem the handle slips onto is splined and so is the inside hole in the lever. The splines fit tightly together to prevent slippage. The splines do get calcium deposits in them and may even aquire some rust deposits. Vinegar is a good product to help loosen the calcium deposits.

Another solution chemical may also need to be applied after the vinegar. Liquid Wrench. Unpleasant smelling, messy at times and not as easy to apply but will help to loosen any rust, if there happens to be some. Apply the liquid per instructions and allow some time for it to absorb into the splines.

Than tap the handle and center shaft with the back end of a heavy duty screwdriver. Than start tapping and rapping while pulling on the lever. The tapping and rapping serves two purposes.

Relieves stress, frustrations, anger and tensions you're having....
And helps to jar loose any rust....

The pulling also helps to loosen the lever on the splined shaft.

Use caution. The lever just may slip off unexpectedly......

I have been successful using the above methods. I am not and do not profess to be an expert in the plumbing field or industry. An advid diy'er myself who's better half hates to hear me $$#@#$## in situations like these...LOL!

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Thanks so much for the quick replies. I will give it a shot... tomorrow.

 

You might also try a "handle puller", similar to a wheel bearing puller. You may find it at your hardware store, or a plumbing supply. It has a 'T' handle on a shaft that threads through a yoke with two "fingers". The center of the shaft sits on the end of the stem, where the screw was removed, and the two fingers are put under the bottom of the handle. It will pull up on the handle evenly. Use the vinegar or Liquid Wrench first.