How to Repair a Leaking Drop-Down Bathtub Plug
A drop-down bathtub plug is either a pop-up or plunger-type stopper. Both have a lever on the front of the tub that operates the stopper mechanism. Repairing a leaking drop-down bathtub plug depends on which of these plugs you have. A pop-up type plug has an O-ring that seals the drain, while the plunger type only requires some cleaning and adjustment of the linkage. Replacement O-rings and plungers are available at home improvement centers. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Phillips-head screwdriver
- Toothbrush
- Vinegar
- O-ring
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Instructions
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Plunger Type
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1
Remove the two screws securing the lever to the tub with a Phillips head screwdriver. Pull the lever away from the tub, bringing the linkage and the plunger through the waste drain with it.
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2
Inspect the plunger for sediment and debris. Clean the plunger with a toothbrush dipped in white vinegar. Rinse the plunger clean in water.
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3
Hold the upper linkage in one hand, and turn the lower linkage a half turn counterclockwise; this lowers the plunger.
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4
Insert the plunger and linkage into the waste drain until the face of the lever is flush against the tub. Secure the lever faceplate to the tub with the securing screws.
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5
Lift the lever to stop the drain with the plunger. Fill the tub with 2 inches of water to inspect the adjustment. If necessary remove the linkage and adjust until the water no longer leaks when filling the tub.
Pop-Up Drain
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6
Push the lever all the way down; this pushes the pop-up drain up completely. Grasp the pop-up drain in your fingers and pull it out of the drain. The rocker linkage that connects inside the coil spring comes out with the stopper.
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7
Roll the faulty O-ring gasket off the bottom of the stopper and slide it over the rocker linkage.
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8
Slide a new O-ring gasket over the rocker linkage and insert it into the groove under the stopper. Ensure that the ring has no twists in it when you maneuver it onto the groove.
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Insert the linkage into the drain and maneuver the stopper into the drain. You may have to wiggle the linkage as you insert the stopper to ensure that the linkage moves into the coil spring inside the drain.
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