My Faucet Handle is Not Rotating Correctly after Installing the 90274

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This article is based on a stem extension with a "D" shaped profile. Widespread valves began using this stem extension prior to 2000. If you are unsure the above image is your version, see Two Handle 8" Wide Spread: Lever or Two Handle 8" Wide Spread: Knob for details.

This article explains how to correct your faucet handle if it is not rotating properly after installing 90274. Version 1 is single piece stem extension used in knob handles. Version 2 is a two piece stem extension used in lever handles.

Correct

Incorrect

Preparation:

The water supply shut off valves must be turned off- see article How to Turn Off the Water Supply to the Faucet.
The following instructions assume the handle and associated handle pieces have been removed. For additional details, visit Two Handle 8" Wide Spread: Lever or Two Handle 8" Wide Spread: Knob select the type you are repairing. The faucet guide will contain specific information on handle assemblies associated with that style of product.

Version 1-Single piece stem extension used in knob handles.

Symbol Key Legend

	Unthreads
	Lifts Off

1. Remove the cartridge nut (#1). Note: If you have a two piece cartridge nut, only remove the upper portion which is threaded at the bottom.

2. Lift off the stem extension (#2) from the faucet, turn 180 degrees and reposition on the stem of the cartridge.

3. Install the cartridge nut (#1) being careful not to cross thread it. Begin by hand tightening the cartridge nut (#1) then finish using a pair of pliers.

4. Turn your handle upside down. Notice the inside "D" profile in the handle (see image below). This will match the profile at the top of the stem extension (#2). Set the handle on the stem extension (#2). In a standard faucet installation, the hot handle will face the 9:00 position, the cold handle will face the 3:00 position.

5. While holding the handle in place, test the handle movement by rotating the handle. If the rotation is not correct, repeat steps 1-5. If the rotation is correct, install the handle and handle screw.

Version 2-Two piece stem extension used in lever handles.

Symbol Key Legend

	Unthreads
	Lifts Off

1. Remove the cartridge nut (#1) and the upper stem extension (#2a). Note: If you have a two piece cartridge nut, only remove the upper portion which is threaded at the bottom.

2. Lift off the lower stem extension (#2b) from the faucet, turn 180 degrees and reposition on the stem of the cartridge.

3. To replace the upper stem extension (#2a), turn your handle upside down. Notice the "D" shaped profile in the handle (see image below). This will match the profile at the top of the stem extension (#2a). Place the upper stem extension (#2a) into the handle. Set the handle with the upper stem extension (#2a) onto the faucet. In a standard faucet installation, the hot handle will face the 9:00 position and the cold handle will face the 3:00 position. If the handles are not aligned in these positions, remove the handle and adjust the upper stem extension to modify the position. Note: The upper stem extension (#2a) has small teeth on the bottom that line up with the indents on the top of the lower stem extension (#2b) to allow for small positioning adjustments. Place the handle back onto the upper stem extension.

4. While holding the handle in place, test the handle movement by rotating the handle. If the rotation is not correct, repeat steps 3. If the rotation is correct, remove the handle and proceed to step 5.

5. Install the cartridge nut (#1) being careful not to cross thread it. Begin by hand tightening the cartridge nut (#1) then finish using a pair of pliers.

6. Install the handle and handle screw.

For additional details on Two Handle 8" Wide Spread faucets, visit Two Handle 8" Wide Spread: Lever or Two Handle 8" Wide Spread: Knob and select the type you are repairing. The faucet guide will contain specific information on handle assemblies associated with that style of product.

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