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Loosen and Unscrew the Flange — Use a Drain Key for Removal

Beginner4 hours

Part of project

How to Remove a Stuck Bathtub Drain Flange · Step 3 of 5

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In this video

Apply steady, strong, counter-clockwise pressure on the pipe wrench to begin unscrewing the drain flange. The initial turn may require significant effort. Continue this process, repositioning the wrecking bar and wrench after each partial turn to get a new grip. The video shows the user switching between two different wrenches to find the best fit and leverage as the flange loosens.

Goal: Unscrew the Drain Flange

  • Listen for any cracking sounds from the tub and stop if you suspect damage. Apply pressure slowly and consistently.

Used in this video

  • Wrecking Bar (Prying Tool Type: Pry bar) — To act as a lever point inside the drain.
  • Pipe Wrench (brand: The Ridge Tool Co., Super Ego, Wrench_Sizes: Specific Sizes, Pliers_Type: Channel-Lock) — To apply torque to the wrecking bar.
  • Work Gloves (Safety Gear: Gloves) — For grip and hand protection.
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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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bar and I hold it like so, I've found that I can get it to turn. Not too easy but it's going. I've got a second wrench for the wider opening so when I get to a certain point where I can go this way, like so, we use the other wrench. It's getting a little easier. So we may have some success here considering as you can't take the tub out until it's disconnected from the drain and this drain flange connects the tub. It's getting loose. So we're using those two nubs to get a bite with the wrecking bar.

Auto-generated transcript. May contain errors.