Help with Franke Planar tap

[Bagshot]

Hello

I have a Franke Planar Kitchen tap and it’s got a leak. One drop per minute.

I’ve been on YouTube and seen that there are grub screws to remove, first for the handle, then once that is off the square piece between the handle and the tap body to get the cartridge for replacement.

I have removed the grubs but the handle won’t budge. Franke support suggested it is due to limescale, which is highly likely given where I live and recommended using white vinegar. It hasn’t done the job so coming to the forum for any other ideas/help. Thanks

 

[Rtplumb]

I take it that tap has been there for a long time? I, personally would turn off the water (hot and cold side) open the tap, wrap a cloth around the handle and gently tap it in an outward direction with a light hammer. If it still won't move try kettle de-scaler poured around the tap.

What's happened is the splines of the cartridge have become stuck in the handle due to lime scale and dirt etc. and the tap handles can be a pain to get off.

There are other methods but they become more brutal as each easier one fails.

Good luck.