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Remove Old Spout — Remove the Old Tub Spout

Beginner2 hours

Part of project

How to Fix a Shower Diverter on a Tub Spout · Step 2 of 5

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In this video

To remove a screw-on spout, turn it counter-clockwise by hand. If it's too tight, use channel-lock pliers, but be careful not to damage the tub surround. To remove a slip-on spout, use the appropriate size Allen wrench to loosen the set screw on the underside, then slide the spout straight off the copper pipe. If a screw-on spout is seized, you may need to cut it off with a hacksaw.

Goal: Remove the old tub spout from the wall pipe.

  • If using pliers, place a rag between the pliers and the spout to avoid scratching the finish, in case you need to reuse it.
  • Do not apply excessive force when twisting, as this could damage the pipe inside the wall.

Used in this video

  • Channel-Lock Pliers · optional — To provide extra leverage for removing a tight screw-on spout
  • Allen Wrench Set — To loosen the set screw on a slip-on spout
  • Hacksaw · optional — To cut off a spout that is too tight to unscrew
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AP Plumbing

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FAQs

How difficult is replacing a tub spout diverter, and how long does it typically take a beginner?

This project is considered beginner-level for most DIYers and is typically completed within two hours. The process is straightforward, focusing on careful removal of the old spout and ensuring a proper, leak-free seal with the new one.

What specialized tools or materials will I absolutely need to replace my tub spout diverter?

You will primarily need a new diverter tub spout, plumber's tape, and silicone caulk with a caulk gun. Depending on your current spout's installation, an Allen wrench (hex key) might be necessary to loosen a set screw for removal. Rags and towels are also essential for cleanup and protecting your tub.

What's the most common mistake DIYers make when installing a new tub spout, and how can I avoid leaks?

The most common mistake is failing to create a proper seal, leading to leaks behind the wall or around the spout's base. To avoid this, thoroughly clean the pipe stub, apply plumber's tape correctly to threaded connections, and generously caulk the gap between the new spout and the wall.

Can I just repair the diverter mechanism inside my existing tub spout instead of replacing the whole thing?

For most modern tub spouts, especially slip-on or screw-on types, the diverter mechanism is an integrated component of the spout assembly. It cannot be easily repaired or replaced separately. Replacing the entire tub spout is generally the most straightforward and reliable solution for a broken diverter.

Transcript
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Now mine is kind of a hybrid. It's got a set screw holding it on, but it's also threaded on. I'll show you exactly how that works once I take it off. I'm going to just unscrew it. But you need to look at yours and see if it has a set screw and if it does then you need to loosen that set screw and then slide it off. Now if this thing's been on there for 20 or 30 years, it may be difficult to get off. But normally with a little of it you should be able to unscrew this. As I told you a minute ago, if it will not unscrew, don't make the mistake that I made and potentially damage that pipe. Take a hacksaw or a saw saw and cut through the spout and the pipe and everything. Make sure you leave about two to two and a half inches of pipe sticking out of the wall and that way you can use a slip on tub spout in its place. It's better to do this than to potentially break that pipe off in the wall or twist it where it's not usable than you have a big problem on your hands.

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