Step 4 · Install Drain and Overflow Assembly
With the tub out of the alcove, it's time to install its drain components. Unpack your new waste and overflow kit. Take the plumber's putty and roll a small amount into a rope about 1/4-inch thick. Press this rope firmly around the underside of the new drain flange (the chrome piece that sits inside the tub). From inside the tub, insert the threaded end of the drain flange through the drain hole. From underneath the tub, place the large rubber gasket over the threads and screw on the drain shoe (the elbow fitting). Tighten this connection using a drain wrench or the handles of channel-lock pliers inserted into the crossbars of the drain. As you tighten, excess putty will squeeze out from under the flange; this indicates a good seal. Next, attach the overflow assembly. From the back of the tub, place the tapered rubber gasket over the overflow opening. From the front of the tub, push the overflow plate/cover through the hole and screw it into the overflow elbow on the backside. Finally, connect the straight waste pipe between the bottom of the overflow tee and the top of the drain shoe, ensuring gaskets are properly seated before tightening the slip nuts. Hand-tighten plus a quarter turn with pliers is usually sufficient.