Install and Tighten Drain Assembly — Install Overflow Pipe and Connect to Main Drain
Part of project
How to Replace a Pop-up Bathtub Drain and Overflow Assembly · Step 6 of 8
In this video
Insert the sealed drain shoe assembly from underneath the tub, pressing it against the drain opening. From inside the tub, screw the drain strainer into the drain shoe. Use a drain wrench, with a screwdriver inserted through it for leverage, to tighten the strainer firmly. This compresses the gasket and creates the seal. Return underneath and use channel-lock pliers to tighten the slip nut connecting the horizontal pipe to the overflow assembly. As a final precaution, apply sealant around the exterior seam where the drain shoe flange meets the bottom of the tub.
Goal: Install New Drain
Used in this video
- Drain Wrench (brand: Husky) — Tightening the drain strainer from inside the tub.
- Screwdriver (Screwdriver_Type: Phillips) — Providing leverage for the drain wrench.
- Channel-lock Pliers — Tightening the slip nut on the overflow connection.
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FAQs
What's the most challenging part for a beginner, and how can I prepare for it?
The trickiest part for a beginner is often accessing the plumbing behind the tub, especially if space is tight or an access panel isn't readily available. Ensure you have ample lighting, like the NITECORE flashlight, and be prepared for potentially corroded or seized old components which might require extra patience and leverage from Channellock pliers.
How important is using plumber's putty, and are there alternatives for sealing the drain flange?
Plumber's putty is crucial for creating a watertight seal between the drain flange and the tub surface, effectively preventing leaks. Apply a generous, continuous bead under the flange before seating it. While silicone sealant can also be used, plumber's putty allows for easier future removal if necessary.
The project says 5 hours, but what if my old drain is severely corroded or stuck?
Heavily corroded or seized drain components can indeed extend the project time beyond the estimated 5 hours. Have penetrating oil on hand to help loosen stubborn threads and allow it to sit. You might also need a hacksaw, like the Husky Close Quarters Hacksaw, to cut away old components if they cannot be unscrewed.
Do I need to turn off my home's main water supply before starting this project?
While you are not directly working on pressurized water lines that require the main supply to be off, it's a wise safety precaution to do so. This minimizes the risk of accidental water damage if a pipe is inadvertently compromised or if you want to prevent water from inadvertently entering the tub during the process. It also helps manage any residual water in the pipes.
Install and Tighten Drain Assembly — Install Overflow Pipe and Connect to Main Drain
Part of project
How to Replace a Pop-up Bathtub Drain and Overflow Assembly · Step 6 of 8
In this video
Insert the sealed drain shoe assembly from underneath the tub, pressing it against the drain opening. From inside the tub, screw the drain strainer into the drain shoe. Use a drain wrench, with a screwdriver inserted through it for leverage, to tighten the strainer firmly. This compresses the gasket and creates the seal. Return underneath and use channel-lock pliers to tighten the slip nut connecting the horizontal pipe to the overflow assembly. As a final precaution, apply sealant around the exterior seam where the drain shoe flange meets the bottom of the tub.
Goal: Install New Drain
Used in this video
- Drain Wrench (brand: Husky) — Tightening the drain strainer from inside the tub.
- Screwdriver (Screwdriver_Type: Phillips) — Providing leverage for the drain wrench.
- Channel-lock Pliers — Tightening the slip nut on the overflow connection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most challenging part for a beginner, and how can I prepare for it?
The trickiest part for a beginner is often accessing the plumbing behind the tub, especially if space is tight or an access panel isn't readily available. Ensure you have ample lighting, like the NITECORE flashlight, and be prepared for potentially corroded or seized old components which might require extra patience and leverage from Channellock pliers.
How important is using plumber's putty, and are there alternatives for sealing the drain flange?
Plumber's putty is crucial for creating a watertight seal between the drain flange and the tub surface, effectively preventing leaks. Apply a generous, continuous bead under the flange before seating it. While silicone sealant can also be used, plumber's putty allows for easier future removal if necessary.
The project says 5 hours, but what if my old drain is severely corroded or stuck?
Heavily corroded or seized drain components can indeed extend the project time beyond the estimated 5 hours. Have penetrating oil on hand to help loosen stubborn threads and allow it to sit. You might also need a hacksaw, like the Husky Close Quarters Hacksaw, to cut away old components if they cannot be unscrewed.
Do I need to turn off my home's main water supply before starting this project?
While you are not directly working on pressurized water lines that require the main supply to be off, it's a wise safety precaution to do so. This minimizes the risk of accidental water damage if a pipe is inadvertently compromised or if you want to prevent water from inadvertently entering the tub during the process. It also helps manage any residual water in the pipes.