Step 5 · Install the New Drain Flange
Take a generous amount of fresh plumber's putty and warm it in your hands. Roll it out into a uniform, snake-like rope about 1/4-inch to 3/8-inch thick. Press this rope firmly and evenly onto the underside of the new drain flange's lip. Some tub materials like acrylic can be stained by plumber's putty, in which case a bead of 100% silicone sealant is a better choice. Carefully position the new flange over the drain opening and begin turning it clockwise by hand. Ensure it is threading in straight and not cross-threading. Hand-tighten it as much as possible, then use your drain removal tool to give it a final quarter to half turn to snug it down firmly. This action will squeeze out the excess putty, creating a perfect watertight seal.