A sticky trip-lever bathtub drain stopper can be frustrating to deal with. When the stopper gets stuck and won’t fully open or close to allow proper draining, it affects the functionality of your tub. Fortunately, there are several ways to try and fix a sticky trip-lever tub drain yourself before calling a plumber.

What Causes a Sticky Trip Lever Tub Drain?

There are a few common reasons why a trip-lever tub drain may become sticky and not open or close properly:

Buildup of hair, soap residue, and minerals – Over time, buildup from hair, soap scum, body oils, and mineral deposits from hard water can accumulate on the stopper mechanism. This gunks things up and makes the lever stick.
Rust and corrosion – Metal components in the trip lever assembly or the linkage can rust over time from moisture exposure. Rust and corrosion impede the components from moving smoothly.
Old rubber parts – The rubber washers and seals in the drain eventually wear out and deform. This allows things to get stuck in the wrong position.
Misalignment issues – If the linkage between the trip lever and the stopper gets knocked out of position, it may not allow full range of motion.
Broken parts – It’s possible for pieces in the trip lever or stopper assembly to break over time. Anything from stripped screws to fatigued springs can prevent proper functioning.

How to Fix a Sticky Trip Lever by Adjusting and Cleaning

Before taking anything apart, try adjusting and cleaning a sticky trip lever first. This may solve the sticking issue without the hassle of repairs or replacements.

Step 1: Try Working the Lever

The first step is to simply work the lever up and down vigorously several times. Open it fully, close it fully, and repeat 5-10 times. Sometimes this can help dislodge any stuck linkage or buildup. Spraying penetrating lubricant down into the overflow can help loosen things up as you work the lever.

Step 2: Adjust the Pivot Rod Clevis

If the stopper seems like it’s not fully opening or closing, adjust the clevis on the end of the pivot rod. The clevis attachment is what connects the trip lever to the actuating rod that controls the stopper. Loosen the lock nut and turn the clevis up or down a few turns to alter the range of motion. Tighten the lock nut and test the lever again.

Step 3: Clean Stopper Assembly and Linkage

Remove the stopper assembly so you can access the actuating pivot rod and clean the components. Scrub away any gunk buildup with an old toothbrush and baking soda paste. Vinegar can help dissolve mineral deposits. Spray lubricant on all moving joints. Remove any hair or debris caught on the mechanism. Thorough cleaning may get your trip lever working smoothly again.

Step 4: Lubricate the Pivoting Lever

Put a few drops of mineral oil or penetrating lubricant directly on the pivot point where the trip lever moves back and forth. Work the lever to distribute the lube. This reduces friction at the pivoting joint. Re-lubricate as needed in the future to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Check for Obstructions

Examine the overflow plate at the bottom of the tub drain. Make sure there is no hair, debris or buildup obstructing the stopper from seating properly. Use an old toothbrush to scrub the overflow plate. Anything stuck in there preventing the stopper from closing fully can cause leakages.

How to Fix a Sticky Trip Lever by Replacing Parts

If cleaning and adjusting doesn’t solve a chronically sticky trip lever, certain components may need replacement. With the right parts, you can often replace just the sticking components without replacing the whole assembly.

Step 1: Determine the Sticking Point

Pinpoint exactly where the sticking is occurring before replacing any parts. Is it mainly when opening or closing? Does the lever feel loose and wiggly? Determining the trouble spot helps diagnose what needs replacing.

Step 2: Replace the Pivot Rod

Sticking when opening or closing is often caused by a rusted or bent pivot rod. Removing the actuating rod and replacing it with a new one can restore smooth function. Match the length and end style when replacing.

Step 3: Replace Clevis Assembly

If the clevis and nut are worn or thread-stripped, replace the whole clevis connector piece. A new clevis provides full range adjustment capability again.

Step 4: Replace Rubber Seal/Gaskets

Over time, the rubber seal/gasket around the stopper where it meets the drain opening deteriorates. Replacing them renews the seal and can prevent leakage. Proper sealing can help proper trip lever operation.

Step 5: Replace Entire Assembly

For extensive sticking issues not fixed by isolated part replacement, just replace the entire trip lever assembly. Complete kits are available with all new components for a long-lasting repair.

How to Remove a Stuck Trip Lever Assembly

To fully replace a trip lever assembly, you first need to remove the existing one. This involves detaching it from the bathtub at the drain overflow plate.

Step 1: Turn Off Water Supply Valves

Before working on the tub, always turn off the water supply using the shutoff valves below the fixture. This prevents water from spraying if you disconnect any piping.

Step 2: Remove Stopper Assembly

Extract the stopper assembly from the drain pipe. Remove any screws or fasteners connecting the assembly to the trip lever to fully detach the stopper mechanism.

Step 3: Take Out Retaining Screw

On the overflow plate there is usually a retaining screw that secures the pivoting post for the trip lever. Remove this screw using a flathead or Philips head screwdriver.

Step 4: Pull Entire Assembly Off

With nothing attaching it underneath, you can now firmly pull the entire trip lever assembly up and off the overflow plate. Take care not to drop parts down the drain pipe.

Step 5: Clean Mounting Areas

With the assembly removed, take the opportunity to clean the overflow plate surface and any remaining parts in preparation for the new assembly.

How to Install a New Trip Lever Assembly

Once you’ve removed the old stuck trip lever assembly, follow these steps to install a new one:

Step 1: Position New Assembly

Align the new trip lever assembly into position over the overflow plate. The pivoting post should drop into the hole where the retaining screw secures it.

Step 2: Reattach Stopper Mechanism

Thread the actuating rod through the overflow and reattach the stopper mechanism using screws/fasteners. Reinstall any washers or seals.

Step 3: Secure Pivoting Post

Replace the retaining screw into the pivoting post to hold the trip lever assembly firmly in place on the overflow plate. Tighten securely.

Step 4: Reconnect Supply Lines

If removed earlier, reconnect supply lines to faucet fixtures. Turn water back on and check for any leaks.

Step 5: Test Lever Operation

Turn water on to fill tub. Verify that the new trip lever operates smoothly to fully open and close the drain. Make any final adjustments needed to the clevis nut.

Common Trip Lever Types

There are two main styles of trip lever assemblies used on bathtub drains:

Push/pull assembly – Lever moves up and down to open/close stopper. Spring loaded push-pull rod connects to stopper. Common for older or vintage tubs.
Turn knob assembly – Rotating lever turns gear mechanism to raise/lower stopper. More compact design found on modern tub fixtures.

Understanding the type of assembly you have helps ensure replacing any parts with the correct compatible components. The trip lever style should match the drain stopper mechanism.

Tips for Preventing a Sticking Trip Lever

Follow these tips to help prevent a sticky trip lever from developing in the first place:

Periodically scrub the overflow plate and drain pipe to prevent gunk buildup.
Rinse away soap deposits and hair after each use.
Lubricate pivot joints every few months.
Avoid banging or hanging anything on the trip lever which can bend parts.
Replace worn rubber seals and washers periodically.
Choose high quality chrome/brass components that resist corrosion.
Adjust clevis nut as needed if stopper doesn’t fully close.

Taking care of your bathtub’s trip lever and maintaining the components ensures you can avoid a stuck lever and enjoy years of reliable drain performance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fixing a Sticky Trip Lever

Fixing a sticky trip lever in your bathtub drain can be frustrating. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about dealing with this common issue:

Why does my trip lever get sticky?

There are a few main reasons trip levers can get sticky and not operate smoothly:

Built-up gunk, hair, and mineral deposits
Corrosion and rust
Old and worn rubber seals/gaskets
Bent or damaged parts
Linkage knocked out of proper alignment

Regular cleaning and replacing worn parts as needed prevents sticking issues.

Can I fix it without replacing the whole thing?

Often yes. Try cleaning the assembly and drain thoroughly first. Then replace specific problem pieces like the pivot rod or seals before replacing the whole lever. targeted repairs can save money and hassle.

What if the trip lever is completely stuck?

Take measures to break it free, using penetrant sprays or gently tapping with a hammer. Remove the assembly to work on freeing stuck components. You may need to fully replace a lever that is completely seized up or broken.

My bathtub won’t hold water after I worked on the trip lever. Why?

Most likely the stopper seal is misaligned after repairs. Readjust the linkage and make sure the stopper seats fully flush into the drain opening when closed. Replacing worn stopper gaskets helps create a tight seal.

How do I get the old trip lever assembly off the tub?

Removing a stuck assembly takes patience! Remove any fastener screws, detach the stopper rod, then pry up gradually using screwdrivers. Penetrant spray and tapping helps break the seal. Be careful not to damage the tub surface.

My replacement trip lever doesn’t fit my bathtub, what now?

Return it for the correct style that matches your drain linkage. For tub drains there are push/pull and turn knob styles. Measure the existing assembly and overflow hole spacing when ordering a new one.

Is it easy to install a new trip lever assembly?

Generally, yes. Align it correctly, reattach any fasteners or rods and test operation. Hardest part is removing a stuck assembly. Carefully follow install directions. Get help if struggling with proper fit or keeping tub sealed.

A sticky trip lever can be successfully fixed with some repairs, cleaning, lubrication and replacing any worn out parts. With a little handy work, you can get your bathtub drain working like new again.

Conclusion

Dealing with a sticking or stubborn trip lever on your bathtub can be a nuisance, but armed with the right information you can troubleshoot the problem and get it working smoothly again. The key steps are taking the time to thoroughly clean the assembly, replacing any worn parts, lubricating movable joints, and making proper adjustments.

With some basic mechanical skills and a little patience, you can often fix a sticky trip lever yourself without needing to call a plumber. Maintaining the assembly by periodically cleaning and lubricating it can prevent the sticking issue in the first place. If the lever ever does get stubborn, know that there are solutions available to get your tub drain back in working order. Just follow safety precautions and take your time disassembling the components.

Getting into the habit of quick cleaning after each bath and regularly checking for issues can help maximize the lifespan of the trip lever. But even the highest quality components will eventually fail over years of use. By understanding what causes sticking and learning how to properly replace parts and reinstall the assembly, you can stop putting up with a frustrating sticky lever and enjoy a smoothly operating tub drain again.

How to Fix a Sticky Trip-Lever Bathtub Drain Stopper