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Install Strainers and Drain — Reconnect Drain Pipe

Beginner3 hours

Part of project

How to Install a Kitchen Sink Basket Strainer · Step 8 of 9

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In this video

He removes the old strainer baskets from the old sink because he plans to reuse them. Then he applies plumber's putty to the underside of the drain flange to seal it. He places the strainer basket over the drain hole and secures it in place by hand tightening the lock nut. Next he uses pliers to tighten the nut further. He repeats the same steps for the other drain. After that, he connects the drain pipes using a slip-joint tee and p-trap assembly.

Goal: Install strainers and assemble the drain.

Used in this video

  • Pliers (Tool Type: Plumbing Tools, Power Source: Manual, Material: Metal, Size/Weight: Medium, Purpose: Plumbing, Jaw Size/Opening: Medium, Grip: Textured, Rubberized, Tool Functionality: Tightening, Ergonomics: Comfortable grip, Versatility: Multi-purpose, Maintenance Requirements: Low, Accuracy: Medium)Tightening the lock nut on the strainer basket.
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FAQs

How difficult is installing a kitchen sink basket strainer for a beginner, and how long should I expect it to take?

This project is considered beginner-friendly, but patience is key, especially with removing an old, stubborn strainer. While estimated at 3 hours, allow extra time, perhaps up to 4-5 hours, if you encounter unexpected issues or if the old components are corroded. Having the right tools ready will significantly streamline the process.

What's the purpose of plumber's putty, and is there an alternative I can use for sealing?

Plumber's putty creates a watertight seal between the new strainer's flange and the sink opening, preventing leaks. While some people use silicone sealant as an alternative, plumber's putty is generally preferred for this application because it remains pliable, making future disassembly and repairs much easier. Ensure a generous, even bead for a reliable seal.

My old strainer is really stuck; what's the best way to remove it without damaging the sink?

If the old strainer's locknut is corroded and won't budge, try applying penetrating oil and letting it soak. You can also use a basin wrench or a large pair of Channellock pliers for leverage. If it's still stuck, insert a screwdriver into the crossbars of the strainer from above and tap it gently with a hammer from below to loosen the nut. Avoid excessive force to protect your sink.

Do I need all the specific tools listed, especially the locknut wrench, or can I get by with basic tools?

While you might manage with large channel-lock pliers, a dedicated locknut wrench (like the Husky Lock Nut Wrench 16PL0133) or a basin wrench is highly recommended. These tools provide better grip and leverage in tight spaces, making it much easier to properly tighten the locknut and ensure a secure, leak-free seal without overtightening or damaging components.

Transcript
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sealant the last thing I have to do is take these strainer baskets off because I am going to reuse them okay now that I have my new sink ready to go in I just have to reassemble it in reverse order and the first step is to reinstall the strainer basket but before I can put the basket in I have to seal it and I'm going to seal it with this plumers putty and all you do is you get a piece of plumers putty you work it in your hands it's a little sticky it's a little oily and you work it out into a little rope once you have it into a rope oh about a/4 inch thick or so you just wrap it around the underside of the lip just like that Center it up in the hole and press it in place place then put on the rubber washer and then put on your cardboard friction washer then the lock nut and then I just tighten it up with my pliers and I stick a needl noose through the holes of the strainer basket to hold it so the whole Basket doesn't Spin and then after you have it tightened up you can see the putty just squeezes out and you just go back and scrape it up with your finger and then I just repeated it for the other one and then I'm just going to put the drain back together together the way I took it off and next I have to hook up the bracket every manufacturer is going to be a little different but in my case I just feed these screws into the brackets and then slide them into the track on the underside of the sink my directions recommend that I have one on each side in the middle and then just evenly space out the remaining so now that I'm ready

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