Allen Wrench Sizes For Delta Monitor Troubleshooting

If you're looking to remove the handle of a Delta faucet, you'll need to loosen the set screw holding it to the valve stem. This typically requires an Allen wrench, also known as an Allen key. The size of the Allen wrench you'll need depends on the specific model of your Delta faucet. Some older Delta faucet models used a 1/8 Allen wrench, while newer models may require a smaller, metric size such as 3mm or 3.5mm. For the Delta Faucet RP26853 model, a 3/32-inch Allen wrench is needed. For the 1300/1400 series, a 3/32 or 2mm Allen wrench is recommended. It's important to use the correct size Allen wrench to avoid damaging the screw or the Allen key itself.

Delta faucet handle removal

To remove a Delta faucet handle, you will need to remove the set screw from the cover. If the screw is stripped or stuck, try using WD40 or vinegar to loosen it. If that doesn't work, try slowly but forcefully turning the faucet handle past its resistance point, with it in the on position first, then if that doesn't loosen it, try doing the same but the other direction with it in the off position. You may have to alternate this a few times to get it to free itself from the teeth on the stem. If the handle still won't come off, there may be a retaining nut on the underside of the sink counter that you can remove.

If your Delta faucet handle has a push-fit handle, you may not need any tools to remove it. Try pulling straight out from the faucet or aligning the handle with the spout and pulling straight out until the handle releases. This may require some force. If your handle has a rubber plug in the screw hole, you may need to remove this with a small screwdriver before you can remove the screw.

The size of Allen key you will need to remove the screw depends on the model of your faucet. For the 1300/1400 series, you will need a 3/32" or 2mm Allen wrench. For other models, you may need a metric set of Allen keys, as some recent models use a smaller size, probably 3mm-3.5mm.

Location of the set screw

The location of the set screw on a Delta Monitor faucet can vary depending on the specific model and series. Here is some information I found regarding the location and size of the set screw:

In most cases, the set screw for a Delta Monitor faucet is located underneath the faucet handle. To access it, you will need to remove the handle by popping off the cap or cover, often using a small flat-head screwdriver or Allen wrench. Once the cap is removed, you should see the set screw, which holds the handle in place.

Additional Information:

In some instances, there may be a Phillips screw underneath the cap instead of a set screw. In this case, you would simply unscrew it to remove the handle.

For older Delta Monitor models, such as the 1300/1400 series, the set screw size is typically 3/32-inch or 2mm. Newer models may have switched to metric sizes, with some users reporting sizes ranging from 2.5mm to 3.5mm.

It is recommended to have a complete set of Allen wrenches, both in standard and metric sizes, to ensure you have the correct size for your specific faucet.

If you are having trouble removing the set screw due to damage or corrosion, you may need to consider drilling it out and replacing the valve cartridge.

Additionally, it is important to note that the set screw should be properly tightened and greased to prevent any wobble in the handle. This is especially important if your valve handle is vertical when the shower is on.

Using the right Allen key

When it comes to Delta Monitor faucets, it's important to use the correct Allen key to avoid damaging the screw or faucet. The standard Allen key size for Delta faucets is 3/32-inch, which is equivalent to approximately 2.5 millimeters. This size is specifically designed to fit the 3/32-inch hex screws found in many Delta faucet models.

You may encounter older Delta faucet models that use a different Allen key size. Some older Delta handles used a 1/8-inch Allen wrench, but the company has transitioned to smaller metric sizes in recent years. In such cases, a 2mm or 3mm Allen wrench may be required. It's always a good idea to have a complete set of Allen keys readily available, which typically includes about 10 sizes.

The shape of Allen keys is also important to consider. They typically have an L-shape, with the short part of the "L" designed to fit easily in tight spaces. However, if you have a folding Allen key set, you may need to rotate the faucet to get the key into the screw hole. This is a common issue with single-handle faucets, and you may need to use some force to rotate the faucet. Remember to rotate it back to its original position when you're done.

If you don't have the right size Allen key, it's best to purchase one from a hardware store rather than forcing an ill-fitting key. Using the wrong size can strip the screw head or break the key, leading to further complications. Additionally, if the screw is too tight, you can apply some WD-40 to loosen it before attempting to turn it again.

In some cases, you may encounter a different type of screw altogether. For example, some Delta faucets use a Torx screw instead of an Allen screw. In such cases, you'll need to use a Torx screwdriver or bit to remove the screw. Always inspect the screw type carefully before attempting any repairs.

The set screw won't turn

If your set screw won't turn, there are several possible reasons and solutions.

First, check that you are using the correct size Allen wrench. For Delta faucets, the correct size Allen wrench is often a 3/32-inch, 2mm, or 2.5mm. However, some older Delta handles used a 1/8-inch Allen wrench, while newer ones may use a smaller, metric size, such as 3mm or 3.5mm.

If the correct size Allen wrench is being used and the set screw is still not turning, the screw may be stripped. In this case, you may need to drill it out and replace the valve cartridge. Be careful not to drill into the surrounding handle. Once the screw is removed, fill the screw hole with silicone grease before inserting a new screw.

If the set screw is rusted in place, you can try using a rust softener like CLR to loosen the corrosion. Allow the CLR to sit for about 20 minutes before attempting to remove the screw again.

If the set screw is not stripped and is not rusted, but still won't turn, try applying some WD-40 or white vinegar and water to the screw. Let it sit for some time before attempting to turn the screw again.

If none of these solutions work, you may need to cut the handle and the brass spline off the cartridge to access the necessary screws behind the handle. This will require replacing the handle afterward.

In some cases, the handle may be stuck due to corrosion or calcium buildup. Try using a flat-head screwdriver to pry between the handle and the excusion, or apply gentle heat to the top of the handle where the spindle is located. Be careful not to overheat, as this may melt the plastic parts.

If all else fails, you may need to replace the entire faucet.

Removing the handle

The size of the Allen key you need will depend on the model of your Delta faucet. Many Delta faucets use a 3/32-inch hex screw, which requires a 2.5-millimetre Allen key. However, some older Delta faucets may use a 1/8-inch Allen wrench, while others may require a 2mm or 7/64-inch Allen key. It is recommended to have a complete set of Allen keys to ensure you have the correct size.

If you are having trouble finding an Allen key that fits, try using a flashlight to look inside the screw head. If it has six sides, it is an Allen screw. If it has a star shape, it is a Torx screw.

Once you have the correct size Allen key, insert it into the screw head and try to loosen the set screw. Be careful not to use too much force, as you may strip the screw head or break the Allen key. If the screw is difficult to turn, try lubricating it with WD-40 and wait at least five minutes before trying again.

After you have loosened the set screw, you can remove the handle from the valve stem. Remember to rotate the faucet back into its original position if you had to turn it to fit your Allen key.

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