It is important to read and understand the installation instructions before you start working on the faucet. The following is a guide on how to install a Delta shower faucet knob handle.
1. Shut off the main water supply before you disassemble the tub shower valve.
2. Remove the Delta shower faucet knob handle off the unit.
3. Take note of the area that is used to mark the Rotational Limit Stop denoted by RLS using a pencil/pen. This mark is usually on the raised rib and is aligned with the groove on the brass stop. Note, however, after the new cartridge has been installed, its RLS has to be in the same position as before.
4. Pull the RLS off and note the position of the raised stop that is on the cap assembly labeled ‘hot side’. When installing, the raised stop must be located right at the hot water inlet area, making the cold water first. The raised stop is usually situated on the left side.
5. Pull the sleeve that is on the outside off. Slide the sleeve O-ring towards you, until it stops at the area where the raised brass section is on the Delta tub/shower faucet body. Ensure that the sleeve O-ring does not go over the raised brass area. Note, however, while reinstalling the sleeve it will slide on the same O-ring. Make sure the water supply is completely shut off.
6. Loosen and unscrew the brass bonnet.
7. Do not use a screwdriver to remove the cartridge off the faucet’s body. Put the handle back on the brass stem and then rotate it counterclockwise at the same time, lifting the cartridge out of the two notches that are on the sides of the faucet’s body.
8. Do not take apart the new Delta faucet valve cartridge by twisting the cap and lowering the housing. If you notice that they separated, lock them back together, twisting them against each other until they snap back. Do not take apart the lower housing.
9. The raised stop of the Delta faucet valve cartridge should have the cap at the side where the hot water inlet is.
10. Put the brass bonnet back to the way it was before.
11. Slide the outside sleeve on.
12. Remove and dispose of the black retention plug that is on the brass stem.
13. Ensure that you have installed the RLS on the new cartridge in the proper manner.
14. Re-install the faucet handle to where it was initially.
15. Proceed to flush the system. Turn the handle of the faucet to the full “hot and cold mix” position and then turn on the water supply. Do not move the handle. Check for any possible leaks.
16. For the Delta shower head, let the water run for about 30 seconds after diverting the water towards it. This should aid in getting rid of any type of debris that could potentially damage the internal parts of the faucet which could potentially cause leaks. After the repair, turn the shower valve back on and ensure that the cold water flows first. If not, go back to step 5.
After you have installed the new cartridge, you can then remove the RLS. If your faucet has the raised stop on the cap assembly located on the left side, rotate the brass stop to the bottom left area in such a way that it is positioned below the raised stop. This should be illustrated in the Rotational Limit Stop Adjusted box.
If your particular Delta shower faucet has the raised stop located on the right side, proceed to rotate the brass stop to the top right area so it is positioned above the raised stop.
It is very important to note that the initial position of the Rotational Limit Stop is normally at the position that restricts the rotation of the handle’s stem the most. It is also at the exact maximum counterclockwise setting. The industry standards recommend 1200F as the maximum allowable temperature of the water flowing from the valve. Keep in mind that the temperature may vary from area to area locally. You may need to readjust the RLS manually if the water temperatures in the inlet change. For example, cold water gets even colder during the winter season and this could result in varying temperatures of the water at the outlet. The average water temperature for a comfortable shower usually ranges between 900-1100F.
How to Adjust the Rotational Limit Stop
1. Let the cold water run first, and then let the hot water run. Rotate the Delta shower faucet handle counterclockwise to the hottest position after you have placed it back on the stem.
2. Put a thermometer inside a plastic cup and hold it on the stream of the water. Rotate the RLS (Rotational Limit Stop) counterclockwise to reduce the temperature of the water, but only if it is above 1100-1200 F. If that is the case, you can remove the RLS and replace it one tooth at a time counterclockwise for every 60F temperature reduction that has to be made. Repeat until you get the desired water temperature for your shower.
3. Ensure that the cold water is first to flow from the valve. On that note, ensure that the water temperature does not exceed the allowed plumbing codes that are 1100 or 1200 F. It is recommended that you regularly inspect your faucet’s cartridge if the water in your area does contain lime, sand, rust or any other contaminants. To be able to inspect the cartridge, shut off the main water supply. Then turn the shower faucet handle to the ‘on’ position before disassembling the shower handle.
4. Shake the cartridge vigorously after you have removed it. If you hear a rattling sound, the cartridge is functional and can be reinstalled.
5. Rotate the RLS such that it is in the ‘on’ position.
6. Use your hand to wrap the lower housing.
7. Replace the cartridge. The Delta shower valve is designed to minimize the effect of the outlet water temperature changes and inlet pressure changes. This is mostly caused by washing machines, dishwashers, toilets among others. Keep in mind, however, that this may not necessarily protect you from hot water burns. If the changes in the temperature occur and you are unsure of how to adjust the RLS, it is recommended that you check the installation instruction sheet that has been provided with your shower valve.