Remove Broken Tailpiece Stub and Clean Threads — Clean the Drain and Stopper Components
Part of project
How to Remove a Stuck Bathtub Drain Stopper Assembly · Step 5 of 6
In this video
After cutting the pipe, focus on removing the pop-up drain linkage and the broken tailpiece stub still threaded into the sink drain. This can be the most challenging step. Use a combination of a flathead screwdriver and a hammer to chisel away at the corroded metal stub. Use pliers and a pick tool to grab and pull out the broken fragments. Once the stub is removed, use a wire brush to thoroughly clean the internal threads of the drain body to ensure the new tailpiece will thread in properly.
Goal: Plumbing Fixture Removal
- Be careful not to damage the threads of the main drain body while chiseling out the old part.
- Patience is key. This process can take time and requires carefully chipping away at the old part until it's loose enough to remove.
Used in this video
- Flathead Screwdriver (Screwdriver_Type: Flathead) — Prying and chiseling the broken pipe stub.
- Hammer — Tapping the screwdriver to act as a chisel.
- Pliers (Pliers_Type: Channel-Lock) — Grabbing and pulling out fragments of the broken pipe.
- Pick Tool — Extracting small, stubborn pieces of the broken pipe.
- Wire Brush — Cleaning the internal threads of the drain body after removing the broken piece.
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FAQs
How long should I wait for the penetrating lubricant (like Blaster PB Penetrating Oil) to work, and what if the stopper is still stuck afterward?
Allow the penetrating oil to soak for at least 15-30 minutes, or even a few hours for severely stuck components. If it's still stuck, reapply the lubricant, gently tap around the area with a rubber mallet, and try again. Avoid excessive force to prevent damaging the plumbing.
Do I really need specialized tools like the FlexiSnake Drain Millipede for cleaning, or can I use common household items for removing hair clogs?
While the FlexiSnake is highly effective for reaching deep clogs, you can often use a pair of needle-nose pliers or even a straightened wire coat hanger to carefully fish out hair and debris closer to the drain opening. Always wear gloves and properly dispose of the gunk you remove.
What essential safety precautions should I take when working on a dirty bathtub drain, especially regarding old gunk and chemicals?
Always wear protective gloves (rubber or nitrile) and safety glasses to shield yourself from drain gunk, potential splashing, and penetrating oils. Ensure good ventilation, especially when using lubricants, and have old towels ready to contain any mess.
The project is listed as 'beginner,' but what should I do if the stopper's set screw is stripped or the components are heavily corroded and won't budge?
If the screw is stripped, you might need a screw extractor kit or try using a Dremel to cut a new slot for a flathead screwdriver. For heavy corrosion, apply more penetrating oil and allow extra soaking time, gently wiggling the parts. If it still won't move, consider calling a professional to avoid damaging the plumbing.
Remove Broken Tailpiece Stub and Clean Threads — Clean the Drain and Stopper Components
Part of project
How to Remove a Stuck Bathtub Drain Stopper Assembly · Step 5 of 6
In this video
After cutting the pipe, focus on removing the pop-up drain linkage and the broken tailpiece stub still threaded into the sink drain. This can be the most challenging step. Use a combination of a flathead screwdriver and a hammer to chisel away at the corroded metal stub. Use pliers and a pick tool to grab and pull out the broken fragments. Once the stub is removed, use a wire brush to thoroughly clean the internal threads of the drain body to ensure the new tailpiece will thread in properly.
Goal: Plumbing Fixture Removal
- Be careful not to damage the threads of the main drain body while chiseling out the old part.
- Patience is key. This process can take time and requires carefully chipping away at the old part until it's loose enough to remove.
Used in this video
- Flathead Screwdriver (Screwdriver_Type: Flathead) — Prying and chiseling the broken pipe stub.
- Hammer — Tapping the screwdriver to act as a chisel.
- Pliers (Pliers_Type: Channel-Lock) — Grabbing and pulling out fragments of the broken pipe.
- Pick Tool — Extracting small, stubborn pieces of the broken pipe.
- Wire Brush — Cleaning the internal threads of the drain body after removing the broken piece.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I wait for the penetrating lubricant (like Blaster PB Penetrating Oil) to work, and what if the stopper is still stuck afterward?
Allow the penetrating oil to soak for at least 15-30 minutes, or even a few hours for severely stuck components. If it's still stuck, reapply the lubricant, gently tap around the area with a rubber mallet, and try again. Avoid excessive force to prevent damaging the plumbing.
Do I really need specialized tools like the FlexiSnake Drain Millipede for cleaning, or can I use common household items for removing hair clogs?
While the FlexiSnake is highly effective for reaching deep clogs, you can often use a pair of needle-nose pliers or even a straightened wire coat hanger to carefully fish out hair and debris closer to the drain opening. Always wear gloves and properly dispose of the gunk you remove.
What essential safety precautions should I take when working on a dirty bathtub drain, especially regarding old gunk and chemicals?
Always wear protective gloves (rubber or nitrile) and safety glasses to shield yourself from drain gunk, potential splashing, and penetrating oils. Ensure good ventilation, especially when using lubricants, and have old towels ready to contain any mess.
The project is listed as 'beginner,' but what should I do if the stopper's set screw is stripped or the components are heavily corroded and won't budge?
If the screw is stripped, you might need a screw extractor kit or try using a Dremel to cut a new slot for a flathead screwdriver. For heavy corrosion, apply more penetrating oil and allow extra soaking time, gently wiggling the parts. If it still won't move, consider calling a professional to avoid damaging the plumbing.