Changing a bathtub drain isn’t so complex, but it can end up being a challenging task on older tub drains. A tub drain threads to your fitting called a shoe. The shoe is under the tub and hardened a rubber seal from the bottom of the tub when the tub drain is tightened into it. Depending on the condition and age of the tub drain, rust can build up about the shoe threads, making removal of the tub drain hard. Even though there are a couple of methods used to remove a tub drain, a drain removal tool makes the job much easier and helps to eliminate possible damage to the bathtub’s finished surface.
Examine the tub drain to determine the type of stopper connected with it. As an instance, determine if your tub has a easy stopper like a plunger or screen type. Instead, it may have a spin or toe-tap edition.
Eliminate a plunger or screen stopper in the drain by unscrewing the mounting screw, using a screwdriver. Alternatively, unscrew a spin or push-pull/lift-and-turn stopper, using your fingers or pliers. Gain access to the mounting screw hidden under a decorative cap on foot tap and pop-up drain stoppers, with a slotted screwdriver or utility knife to pop the cap off. Loosen the mounting screw, using a flathead or Phillips screwdriver.
Insert the elimination tool into the drain body, also referred to as the flange. When you’re using the dumbbell type of elimination tool, seat it properly in the drain by ensuring the notches on the end of the dumbbell match between the crossbars from the drain. Choose the end that fits into the drain crossbars the tightest. Put an adjustable wrench or pliers in the center of the removal tool and then turn it counterclockwise. Eliminate the drain.
Insert a new rubber gasket between the drain shoe and the bathtub. The gasket forms a seal on the bottom of the tub that prevents leakage.
Roll a chord of plumber’s putty to the thickness of a pencil. Put it around the bottom lip of the tub drain.
Thread the tub drain into the drain shoe and then tighten it until it is snug, employing the dumbbell tool. Expect excess plumber’s putty to squeeze around the tub drain as you tighten it. Once the drain is snug, tighten it an extra quarter turn.
Eliminate excess plumber’s putty from around the tub drain, with your finger. Replace the drain stopper in the relevant way it had been removed.