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Remove the Old Drain Flange — Cut the Flange (Last Resort)

Beginner4 hours

Part of project

How to Remove a Stuck Bathtub Drain Flange · Step 4 of 5

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In this video

To remove the old flange, first go underneath the tub and secure the locknut. In this case, a large 2-inch socket on a breaker bar is used, wedged against the floor to keep it from turning. Back inside the tub, insert a knurled drain flange removal tool into the old flange. Attach a ratchet and extension to the tool and turn counter-clockwise to unscrew and lift the old flange out of the tub.

Goal: Unscrew and remove the old flange from the tub

  • The locknut underneath can be in a very tight, recessed space. Ensure your tools can fit before applying force.

Used in this video

  • Drain Flange Removal Tool (brand: Generic, Tool Type: Plumbing Tools) — Gripping the inside of the drain flange to allow it to be unscrewed.
  • Ratchet Wrench (brand: Craftsman, Tool Type: Hand tools) — Turning the drain flange removal tool.
  • Socket Extension (brand: Craftsman, Tool Type: Hand tools) — Extending the reach of the ratchet to the drain removal tool.
  • Large Socket (brand: Generic, Size: 2-inch) — Holding the locknut stationary under the tub.
  • Breaker Bar (brand: Generic, Tool Type: Hand tools) — Holding the large socket on the locknut under the tub.
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FAQs

What should I do if the drain key or wrench just slips, or the flange doesn't budge after applying penetrating oil?

If initial attempts fail, the flange is likely severely corroded or the putty is rock-hard. Apply more penetrating oil, like KROIL, and let it sit for several hours or even overnight to allow it to fully penetrate. If it still won't turn, your last resort is to carefully cut the flange using a rotary tool with a metal cutting wheel, making two opposing cuts without damaging the drain pipe threads.

Is it safe to cut the drain flange, and what precautions should I take?

Cutting the flange is a last resort and requires careful attention to safety. Always wear safety glasses and gloves to protect against metal fragments and sparks. Use a rotary tool with a metal cutting wheel, making two shallow, opposing cuts from the inside of the flange, being extremely careful not to cut into the drain shoe's threads below the flange.

How can I minimize the risk of damaging the bathtub or drain pipe during removal?

To prevent damage, protect the tub surface with a rag or towel if using a wrench or other tools that might slip. When cutting the flange, make shallow passes and continuously confirm you are only cutting the flange metal. Avoid excessive force, as that can warp the drain shoe or break connections further down the pipe.

Given this is a 'beginner' project, what are the most essential tools I absolutely need to have on hand?

Beyond basic safety gear, you'll definitely need a high-quality penetrating oil like KROIL, an adjustable wrench, and a specialized drain key or removal tool. For very stuck flanges, a rotary tool like the WEN 101-Piece Rotary Tool Kit with a metal cutting wheel (Stark 5 in. Metal Cut Saw Wheel) becomes essential. A putty knife and rags are also vital for preparation and cleanup.

Transcript
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happens. Okay. This brass craft drain nut remover here actually did come in handy. I'm using it to kind of wedge my breaker bar against the floor. That socket was a little extension on it. It's so huge that it just barely fits into that space and this thing right here should hold it against the nut and then I can ratchet from up top. All right here goes nothing. There we go. Yeah, it actually worked. Can't believe it. Okay, just got back from

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