Here is how I do it.

Remove the handle, remove the packing nut, re-install the handle. Turn
handle counter clockwise to remove stem. Lefty loosie, righty tightie. The
handle will give you the leverage and keep you from marring the stem with
pliers or buggering up the stem end which could keep the handle from going
back on.

"Bro Jack" wrote in message
...
I got the cap off and the nut or collar. The next obstacle is the
copper-colored stem. It goes only so far counter-clockwise and then
it won't budge, even when twisting with pliers. What is blocking it?
Solutions? Thanx, Jack