The two most common types of valves in modern faucets are cartridge valves, which are now the industry standard, and Delta’s patented ball valve.
To fix a leaking Delta shower or faucet, just replace the valve or its gaskets.
This assumes that the handle can be removed in order to gain access to the valve. But the question is “what size Allen wrench for the delta shower handle?”.
In reality, this is a breeze to accomplish.
What Size Allen Wrench For Delta Shower Handle?
Most Delta shower handles require a 1/8-inch or 3/32-inch Allen wrench for removal and installation. To determine the exact size of the Allen wrench needed for your Delta shower handle, it’s best to consult the owner’s manual or installation instructions that came with the handle.
Available Allen Wrench For Delta Shower Handle:
| Wrench Brand | Type and Size of the Wrench | Type and Size of the Wrench |
|---|---|---|
| Allen Wrench | Imperial | 3/32 Imperialor1/8 Imperial |
| Allen Wrench | Metric | 3 mm metric Allen Wrench or2 mm metric Allen Wrench |
Deal with the delta shower handle
If there is a problem with the delta shower, you have to deal with the valve stem and set screw. You can just remove the handle or fix it at once.
But the process need not be complicated when you have the right set of Allen screws.
Here is how to deal with any faulty Delta Shower Handle.
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Finding The Set Screw
The handle in your shower will not come directly. It is necessary to first release the set screw.
This set screw actually keeps the handle stick to the valve stem. Otherwise, the attachment won’t let you remove the handle.
It’s Hard To Find The Screw
If you are having problems finding the screw, you are not the only one there. This is a problem that many individuals out there face on a regular basis.
The manufacturer conceals it with an ornamental cover and positions it on the handle in a way that makes it less likely that you will notice it on purpose.
If you can find the cap, then you can find the set screw.
The Lever Design Of Set Screw
Nowadays, we see the set screw for a handle with a lever design.
The same style is available in most Delta faucets or showers that come with a single-handle design. The set screw here is located just beneath the lever.
You might have to stoop down in order to get it.
Just Turn Off The Faucet
It is comparatively easy to find the set screw after turning the shower off. Just look at the handle cover.
It will then face the rear wall of the sink. You will just get the screw on the cover handle; could be on any side of it.
This results in an additional difficulty in that you will need to turn off the water before you can access the screw by twisting the handle.
If the valve is to function properly, this task will ultimately need to be performed. So, it is not a major issue.
Remove The Cap Now
After you have located the cap, you might be perplexed by how tough it appears to be to remove it.
It is not necessary to do anything more than pull it out with a screwdriver that has a flat head; it will come off without any difficulty at all.
Be very careful, though, as it is rather tiny. In fact, if you’re not careful, it may go straight down the drain and drags you into a further problem.
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Having The Right Allen Wrench Is Important
When you remove the cap, you have easy access to the set screw. Now you know what to do next.
Simply, use the right size Allen Wrench to remove the set screw. Then you will have the handle in your hand.
As we have stated earlier, the standard size for a wrench is a 3/32 Imperial Allen Wrench or a 2 mm metric Allen Wrench.
Unless the manufacturer says otherwise, one of these wrenches will do the job. So, you better check the shower manual beforehand.
Once you have the confirmation, grab an Allen Wrench of the mentioned size and deal with the handle of your Delta Shower.
It May Be Difficult To Rotate The Set Screw
You have verified that the wrench is the correct size and that there is sufficient space to work. But even after inserting the wrench, the screw will not turn.
Be patient, but don’t force it. Doing so risks the breaking of the wrench.
If you break it, it would require you to resort to drastic measures such as sawing off the handle or prying it open with a crowbar. A new faucet may even be necessary.
Use Lubricants Here
So, you should not force it. Rather you can take resort to lubricants. place the tube of the lubricants in the aperture of the screw.
And then apply a few sprays of the lubricant to the screw.
At the very least, let it five minutes to settle down before giving the screw another shot. The problem isn’t solved yet?
It should be sufficient to give it a few more spritzes, then wait another five minutes before giving it another shot.
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Types of Delta Shower Handles and Corresponding Allen Wrench Sizes
Single-Handle Faucets
Specific Allen Wrench Size
For single-handle Delta faucets, a 1/8-inch Allen wrench is often the magic key. This size fits perfectly in the set screw securing the handle. Remember, turning counterclockwise loosens the screw.
Variations in Models
Different models mean different designs! Some might have hidden screws under a cap. Here, you gently pry the cap off. Others have screws at the base, so look carefully. No rushing – patience finds the screw!
Dual-Handle Faucets
Specific Allen Wrench Size
With dual-handle faucets, a 3/32-inch Allen wrench is typically your go-to tool. It’s slightly smaller than the one for single-handle faucets, helping you tackle those tiny screws with ease. Same rule: counterclockwise loosens.
Variations in Models
Variety spices things up here, too! Some dual-handle models feature a set screw under the curve of the handle. Others place them on the side or rear.
Factors Influencing Allen Wrench Size Selection for Delta Shower Handles
Model Variations
Different Delta models mean different Allen wrench needs. The model number is your treasure map. Find it! It’s often inside the shower handle or on your faucet’s original package. This number tells you exactly what size wrench to hunt down.
Manufacturing Year
When was your faucet made? The year matters! Older models might prefer a 3/32-inch wrench, while newer ones love the 1/8-inch size.
Check your manual or the Delta website with your model number. It’s like a time machine for your faucet!
Custom Designs
Got a custom-designed handle? It’s special, and its Allen wrench is too. Custom designs might not follow the standard rules. Your best bet is to contact Delta or your plumber. They’ll know your unique wrench size.
Handle Type
Levers, knobs, cross-handles – oh my! The shape of your handle helps decide the wrench. Levers often use a 1/8-inch wrench.
Knobs might need a tinier 3/32-inch. Always check the manual that came with your fancy faucet first. It knows all the secrets!
FAQs about What size Allen wrench for the delta shower handle
What Size Is The Set Screw On A Delta Shower Handle?
Delta showers usually use 1/4-28 Screws or RP152 Set Screws.
This is where an Allen wrench of 3/32 Imperial or 2 mm metric does the job.
How Can I Remove A Delta Faucet Handle That Has No Set Screw?
The Push-Fit Handle has no set screw.
To remove such a handle, pull the handle directly out from the body of the faucet while aligning it with the spout.
Can You Replace Just The Shower Handle?
A universal replacement kit may be used to swap out the handle and trim on the tub/shower controls without requiring any additional plumbing work to be done.
Final Words
Knowing what size Allen wrench for the delta shower handle does half the job in dealing with a leaky or faulty delta shower.
But the rest will depend on how you can use your appliances.
Having said that, following the little tricks discussed above to find the set screw and remove it should make the job an easy-peasy one for you.
For any further concerns, the comment box is all yours.
