How to Install a Stopper Drain Fitting in a Bathtub

Introduction

Installing a new stopper drain fitting in a bathtub can seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually a pretty straightforward plumbing job that most homeowners can tackle themselves. A stopper drain controls the draining of water and allows you to fill the tub. Over time, the stopper can become faulty, leaky or corroded. Replacing it with a new fitting will restore full functionality.

In this comprehensive DIY guide, we’ll walk through the entire process of how to install a stopper drain fitting in a bathtub, from picking the right parts and tools to removing the old drain, installing the new one, and testing for leaks. With a little bit of plumbing know-how and the right materials, you can replace a worn-out or defective tub drain in less than an hour.

Benefits of Installing a New Stopper Drain

Upgrading to a new stopper drain fitting provides several advantages:

Fixes leaks: An old drain can develop cracks or faults that cause water to leak down underneath the tub. Replacing it stops leaks.
Enhances bathtub functionality: A worn drain stopper won’t seal properly when closed, allowing water to drain out prematurely. A new one restores the tub’s ability to hold water.
Improves appearance: Corrosion and mineral buildup can make an old drain stopper look grungy. A shiny new fitting will spruce up the look of your tub.
Creates a tighter seal: New drain components crafted from modern materials provide a tighter seal to prevent leaks.
Increases home value: Fixed drips and improved functionality adds value and appeal to your bath.

As you’ll see, with a few common plumbing tools and the right replacement kit, installing a new stopper drain is well within the DIY capabilities of most homeowners.

What You’ll Need

Replacing a bathtub drain fitting requires gathering supplies ahead of time. Here’s a list of the materials and tools you’ll need:

Materials

Stopper drain kit (with stopper, flange, gasket, washers, nut, and mounting bolt)
Plumber’s putty
Emery cloth or sandpaper
Rag
Bucket

Tools

Adjustable wrench
Channel lock pliers
Phillips head screwdriver
Tubing cutter
Hacksaw
Flashlight
Safety goggles

Other Supplies

Old towel or drop cloth
Penetrating oil (WD-40)
Plumber’s tape
Silicone sealant

Preparing for Installation

Before beginning the project, take some time to prep the work area to make the installation process smoother:

Clear out the area under the sink, removing any stored items. This gives you room to work.
Protect nearby surfaces from potential dripping water using an old towel or drop cloth.
Have a bucket handy to catch water when removing the old drain.
Ensure good lighting with a flashlight.
Read the instructions that came with the new drain kit so you understand each step.
Turn off the water supply valves for the tub before starting.

Removing the Old Drain

With your supplies gathered and the workspace prepped, you’re ready to tackle removing the old drain assembly:

Step 1 – Inspect the Existing Drain

Remove the drain stopper and the screw at the bottom of the assembly.
Check for mineral deposits and corrosion. Spray penetrating oil around fittings to help loosen if necessary.
Determine if the drain is threaded or uses a gasket/sealing ring that may need cutting away.

Step 2 – Disconnect Supply Lines

Locate supply lines and cut them with a tubing cutter, being careful not to scratch the bathtub finish.

Step 3 – Loosen Mounting Nut

Place a bucket underneath to catch water.
Using channel locks or a wrench, turn the mounting nut counterclockwise to loosen it completely.

Step 4 – Pull Out Old Drain

Rock the drain assembly back and forth while pulling up to work it free.
Remove old plumber’s putty from the top flange with a plastic putty knife. Don’t gouge the tub surface.
Clean area around drain hole thoroughly.

The old drain is now removed and you can proceed with installing the new assembly.

Installing the New Drain Stopper

Follow these steps to install a new bathtub drain and stopper assembly:

Step 1 – Apply Plumber’s Putty

Take a golf ball sized amount of plumber’s putty and roll into an even rope.
Apply it evenly around the perimeter of the drain flange. Press putty into a flat ribbon.

Step 2 – Insert New Drain

Carefully align the new drain flange in the drain hole.
Press down firmly while slowly twisting to seal the putty in place.

Step 3 – Tighten Mounting Hardware

From below, slide the rubber gasket up over the drain tailpiece.
Add washers and metal backup plate if included.
Hand tighten the mounting nut to hold components in place.

Step 4 – Connect Overflow Pipe

Apply plumber’s tape to the threaded portion of the overflow elbow.
Twist elbow onto the overflow stub-out in the drain body. Tighten with wrench.

Step 5 – Attach Stopper Mechanism

Drop the horizontal control rod down through the overflow elbow.
Thread on the stopper body, followed by the control knob handle.
Test stopper up and down motion. Adjust as needed.

Step 6 – Secure Components

Tighten all fittings with a wrench – especially the mounting nut.
Wipe away any excess putty with a rag.

The new drain assembly is now fully installed. Next you need to check for leaks.

Testing for Leaks and Finalizing Installation

After installing the new tub drain, take the following final steps to complete the job:

Step 1 – Reconnect Supply Lines

Attach new supply lines to faucet and valve fixtures. Tighten with wrench.

Step 2 – Turn on Water and Fill Tub

Turn on hot and cold water valves to fill tub halfway.
Plug drain and allow tub to fill.
Check for leaks as water rises. Tighten any areas that drip.

Step 3 – Verify Proper Draining

Lift drain stopper up and down to ensure smooth operation.
Pull stopper up and make sure tub drains fully.
Press stopper closed and ensure it seals and holds water.

Step 4 – Seal with Caulk

Drain tub completely and let area dry fully.
Apply a bead of silicone sealant around the drain flange. Smooth with fingertip.
Allow sealant to cure 24 hours before using shower.

With no leaks found and proper drainage operation verified, your new bathtub drain is successfully installed!

FAQs About Installing a New Stopper Drain

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about installing a new stopper drain fitting in a bathtub:

What type of stopper drain kit should I buy?

Look for a universal retrofit kit made for replacing old tub drains. Complete kits include a flange, stopper, gasket, washers, mounting nut and bolt.

What are some troubleshooting tips for drain removal?

Penetrating oil helps loosen corroded metal. Pry out old putty carefully. Be patient working the drain loose – rocking back and forth usually works.

How tight should I tighten the drain mounting nut?

Hand tighten first, then use tongue-and-groove pliers to tighten the nut 1/4 turn past hand tight. Overtightening can crack porcelain.

How do I know if I need a new drain kit?

Signs include a loose-fitting or leaky stopper, corroded or stripped drain nuts, chronic drips, and clogs resistant to drain cleaners.

What can I do if my tub drain hole is slightly off center?

Use extra putty around the flange to seal it. The putty will fill any small gaps. The gasket will allow for some leeway as well.

My tub has an enamel finish. How do I prevent scratching it?

Always use a plastic putty knife when removing old putty. Cover exposed edges with tape. Don’t allow tools to contact the finish.

Replacing an old, leaky bathtub drain is one of the most effective ways to restore the functionality of your tub and prevent potential damage from water leaks. With this detailed guide and a little DIY spirit, you can tackle this repair job and avoid calling a plumber. Just take it step-by-step. Before you know it, you’ll have a like-new drain installed that seals properly, stops leaks, and works for years to come.

Conclusion

Installing a new stopper drain fitting is one of the best ways to fix persistent leaks, restore drain performance, and improve the appearance of your bathtub. As this article has shown, with the right materials, tools, and techniques, it’s a manageable DIY project for most homeowners. Following the steps for safe removal of the old drain, proper installation of the new one, and meticulous leak testing, you can avoid calling a plumber and have your tub drain working like new in under an hour. While specific drain components and procedures can vary, the information here covers the key steps for successfully replacing a bathtub drain assembly. Just take your time, follow instructions, and don’t be afraid to call on a professional if you get stuck. With a shiny new drain installed, you can look forward to problem-free baths and showers for years to come.