Install and Tighten New Drain Flange — Remove the Drain Flange
Part of project
How to Replace a Pop-up Bathtub Drain and Overflow Assembly · Step 2 of 8
In this video
Carefully insert the new drain flange with the plumber's putty into the drain opening. Hand-tighten it by turning it clockwise, ensuring it threads correctly into the waste shoe below without cross-threading. Once it is hand-tight, use the drain wrench and an adjustable wrench or screwdriver to fully tighten the flange. Tighten it until the flange is flush with the tub and a small amount of plumber's putty has squeezed out around the edge. This indicates a good seal.
Goal: Secure the new drain assembly
- Do not overtighten, as this can crack the bathtub or the drain components. Tighten just until snug and the putty has squeezed out evenly.
Used in this video
- Drain Wrench (Tool Type: Plumbing Tools) — Engaging the crossbars of the drain flange to tighten it.
- Adjustable Wrench (Tool Type: Wrench) — Providing leverage to turn the drain wrench.
- Screwdriver (Screwdriver_Type: Flathead) · optional — Providing leverage by inserting it through the drain wrench.
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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.
TranscriptHide
Auto-generated transcript. May contain errors.
Install and Tighten New Drain Flange — Remove the Drain Flange
Part of project
How to Replace a Pop-up Bathtub Drain and Overflow Assembly · Step 2 of 8
In this video
Carefully insert the new drain flange with the plumber's putty into the drain opening. Hand-tighten it by turning it clockwise, ensuring it threads correctly into the waste shoe below without cross-threading. Once it is hand-tight, use the drain wrench and an adjustable wrench or screwdriver to fully tighten the flange. Tighten it until the flange is flush with the tub and a small amount of plumber's putty has squeezed out around the edge. This indicates a good seal.
Goal: Secure the new drain assembly
- Do not overtighten, as this can crack the bathtub or the drain components. Tighten just until snug and the putty has squeezed out evenly.
Used in this video
- Drain Wrench (Tool Type: Plumbing Tools) — Engaging the crossbars of the drain flange to tighten it.
- Adjustable Wrench (Tool Type: Wrench) — Providing leverage to turn the drain wrench.
- Screwdriver (Screwdriver_Type: Flathead) · optional — Providing leverage by inserting it through the drain wrench.
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.
Video Transcript
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Video Transcript
(664 characters)Transcript may be auto-generated and contain errors.