How to replace sewer valve handle?

[TundraTower]

Broke the plastic handle on the 1/4" valve stem on my grey water valve when we set up camp this weekend.

Internet research indicates you can buy a replacement handle that just screws on and off.

My question is how to hold the valve stem while removing the plastic stub and installing new handle? Specifically, is there a packing gland where the stem goes into valve body?

If something seals around the stem then the stem finish has to be smooth and pliers or vice grips are out. If nothing seals against the stem then pliers will work.

Anyone know for sure, or otherwise done this before?

[westend]

beemerphile1 wrote:
No packing for stem, grab it with pliers. I had good luck replacing the broken plastic handle with two nuts and a fender washer. I like it better than the plastic handle.

Hey, hey, hey. Now see what you've started? This is going to put millions of handle-makers out of work....lol.:B

[TundraTower]

Thanks for your help and advice about the stem.

I was contemplating a threaded piece of aluminum flat stock, but the fender washer idea is great! That and two lock nuts should work perfect.

Thanks to all for your help.

[joshuajim]

I prefer to use a piece of 180 grit sandpaper in lieu of a cloth. The cloth tends to slip unless excessive pressure is applied. Excessive pressure sometimes results in a flat spot.

[beemerphile1]

No packing for stem, grab it with pliers. I had good luck replacing the broken plastic handle with two nuts and a fender washer. I like it better than the plastic handle.

[mikestock]

The stem does not have to seal.

[SCClockDr]

I assume your handle is threaded. Some are pinned however and they are indeed easier to replace.
As others have suggested Vice-Grip with cloth protection is how I tightened a threaded one I installed as a Heat control Mod. A drop of blue thread locker wouldn't hurt either.

Recommend a metal handle X2

[enblethen]

Pair of pliers with cloth to protect shaft. It should not be that tight. I would suggest the metal replacement.
You could use pliers on the little peice left on shaft.