Replacing the bath drain

This article will guide you through the process of replacing your bath drain.

Here are some of the tools that you’ll need:

  • Drain wrench
  • 1/2-inch ratchet
  • New drain kit
  • Plumber’s putty
  • Screwdrivers
  • Mineral spirits

Step1. Purchase new fittings and a drain wrench.

If you want to disassemble a bath drain, you can use either of these tools: master extractor, drain key or tub drain wrench. They are based on the same principles and can be operated in a similar way. If you choose to not purchase a drain wrench, you can insert plier handles into the drain and wedge a screwdriver between the handles to torque the pliers in a counterclockwise direction.

The fittings are a personal choice. It depends on the materials you’ll want in your bathroom.

Step2. Removing the drain cover and stopper.

Most of the drains have a covered fixed with a screw. So to remove it just use a screwdriver.

If it happens for you to have a plunger type of plug, you will need to remove the whole linkage by unscrewing the plate on the wall of the tub and pulling out the assembly. You should replace this plug with a lift-and-turn one.

Step3. Removing the bath drain.

First, insert the wrench in the drain. Then, connect the ratchet and begin turning it counterclockwise. At first, it may be very hard to release it, but then, continue to turn it.

It’s not a good idea to remove the drain using a hammer and a screwdriver. You risk damaging the tub and also the pipes, and you don’t want that, as pipes underneath the tub are very hard to replace.

Step4. Cleaning the opening of the drain

Clean very well the debris, grease, or any other dirt or grit. You should also use some mineral spirits to clean the spot.

Step5. Installing the new bath drain

Put some bead of plumber’s puttyunder the flange. Then, fix the new drain in the hole and turn it clockwise. Attach the ratchet and fix it well. Follow the instructions in the manual for installing the new drain.

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