The cold water side of the faucet is tight and I am concerned that the friction will eventually fracture the plastic component seated atop the stem over which the handle portion engages to open and close the valve. Is there some way to adjust the valve to alleviate this increased friction?

The cold water side of the faucet is tight and I am concerned that the friction will eventually fracture the plastic component seated atop the stem over which the handle portion engages to open and close the valve. Is there some way to adjust the valve to alleviate this increased friction?
Yes! Remove the handle and plastic cover, The nut on the stem is called "The Bonnet Packing Nut". GENTLY back the nut counterclockwise until you reach the desired level of friction. Don not back it out too far or the stem will leak. Good luck, nTom