I have a Moen single lever shower handle that is very hard to push/pull open or close. The fixture is approx. 15 years old. I replaced the plastic handle (it was broken inside) and tried to squirt penetrating oil in the valve which had no effect.
If I take off the plate can I access and clean/replace the existing valve?
I took the 2 screws out but the plate is either sealed or just stuck because of time.

Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated.
Jim B.

I have a Moen single lever shower handle that is very hard to push/pull open or close. The fixture is approx. 15 years old. I replaced the plastic handle (it was broken inside) and tried to squirt penetrating oil in the valve which had no effect.
If I take off the plate can I access and clean/replace the existing valve?
I took the 2 screws out but the plate is either sealed or just stuck because of time.

Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated.
Jim B.
The "O" rings have swelled in the cartridge, and it must be replaced. Ask for a Moen # 1200 cartridge. For those stubborn cartridges that are hard to remove Moen makes a cartridge puller that makes it easy. If you need farther instructions click on back. Good luck, Tom

Moen single lever shower handle
Spedball1
You just answered my problem with the stuck cartridge on my Moen shower handle. Can I replace the #1200 cartridge by only removing the handle with the single screw, or do I have to take the plate off (2 screws). Also, I assume I will need to shut the water off?
Thanks,
Jim
Yes, you will have to shut the water off and no, you don't have to remove the plate. Just take the handle off and the brass horse shoe clip and pull the cartridge out. Regards, Tom

Let me take it a bit farther. Here's what a Moen cartridge puller looks like, (see image) and here's a Moen cartridgr with instructions on how to change it out,(see image). Good luck, Tom