Step 8 · Make Final Connections

This is the step people usually slow down on. Go finger-tight first, then a quarter turn. No rush — replay the clip whenever it helps.

With the main components secured to the tub, connect the pipes. Attach the overflow tube between the overflow elbow and the top inlet of the waste tee. Thread the slip nuts and gaskets and tighten them by hand, followed by a final quarter-turn with channel-lock pliers. Connect the waste tee to the drain shoe in the same manner. Finally, connect the outlet of the waste tee to the house's sanitary drain line, ensuring the slip nut is tight. Once the pipes are connected, insert the new trip-lever linkage through the overflow plate, adjusting its length according to the manufacturer's instructions to ensure the stopper opens and closes correctly.