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Re-install Stopper Assembly — Inspect and Clean the Stopper

Beginner

Part of project

How to Adjust a Bathroom Sink Pop-Up Drain Stopper · Step 2 of 6

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In this video

Begin reassembly by partially threading the pivot rod and its retaining nut back into the tailpiece. Next, from the top of the sink, insert the cleaned drain stopper back into the drain. Ensure the opening at the bottom of the stopper is facing the back of the sink to align with the pivot rod. Push the pivot rod the rest of the way in so it passes through the stopper's opening. Hand-tighten the retaining nut, then use pliers to give it a final snug turn.

Goal: Reassemble stopper

  • You can test the connection by gently pulling up and down on the stopper from the sink basin; you should feel it engage with the pivot rod.

Used in this video

  • Channel-lock pliers (Pliers_Type: Channel-Lock) — Tightening the pivot rod nut.
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MrKistel

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FAQs

What specific tools are essential for this pop-up drain adjustment, and why are so many types of towels mentioned?

You'll primarily need a screwdriver (Phillips or flathead, matching your clevis screw) and a bucket to catch any drips. The various towels are listed for cleaning, protecting your cabinet, and absorbing spills, but any absorbent cloth you have on hand will work perfectly for this beginner-friendly project.

How long should I expect this project to take, and is it truly suitable for a beginner DIYer?

This project is very beginner-friendly and typically takes only 15-30 minutes once you've identified the components. It's a quick fix that doesn't require extensive plumbing knowledge or special tools, making it an excellent starting point for home improvement.

After adjusting, my stopper still leaks or won't fully open/close. What should I troubleshoot next?

First, remove and thoroughly clean the stopper and the drain opening to eliminate debris. Then, double-check that the pivot rod and clevis strap are securely connected and not binding. Make small, precise adjustments to the clevis screw, testing after each increment, as over-tightening or incorrect positioning can cause issues.

Are there any important safety precautions I should take before working under the sink?

While this adjustment doesn't usually involve disconnecting water lines, it's wise to have a bucket handy for unexpected drips. Ensure you have adequate lighting under the sink to clearly see the components. Be cautious of sharp edges or tight spaces to avoid minor injuries.

Transcript
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everything back together now you just want to take your stopper stem with that round nut and just put it back on the hole with you're not gonna tighten anything you just want to kind of keep it there because we have to put our actual stopper back in the drain up in the sink you want the tab with the hole to be in the back of the drain so now we're gonna insert this down and hook it onto the stem I've hooked the drain stopper up in the sink that we just inserted that's hooked on to the stem and you can tell if you hold the stem with your left hand and then with your right hand pull up and down on the stopper in the sink you can feel this hooked on once you know it's hooked on then finger tighten this nut until you get it snug with your fingers and then take your pliers and just give it about a half turn and then that's good to go

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