If you’ve ever tried removing a lock nut from a sink drain, you know it can be frustrating. The nut is designed to stay in place, so it can be difficult to loosen it when the time comes to remove it.
Removing a stuck lock nut is necessary, whether you’re trying to replace a faulty drain or simply need to clean the sink.
This blog post will walk you through tried-and-true methods for removing a stuck lock nut from a sink drain, including penetrating oil, pliers, a pipe wrench, and even a blowtorch.
We’ll also provide tips on when it may be best to call a professional plumber to handle the job. If a lock nut is stuck on a sink drain, there are a few methods you can try to remove it:
- Use Penetrating Oil: Spray some penetrating oil, such as WD-40, around the base of the lock nut and let it sit for a few hours. This can help to loosen any rust or corrosion that may be causing the nut to stick.
- Try Using Pliers: If the lock nut is still stuck after penetrating oil, you can use a pair of pliers to loosen it. Grip the nut firmly with the pliers and turn it counterclockwise to loosen it.
- Use A Pipe Wrench: If the pliers are not enough, you can try using a pipe wrench to loosen the lock nut. Place the jaws of the wrench around the nut and turn it counterclockwise.
- Heat The Nut: If all else fails, you can try heating the lock nut with a blowtorch to expand it and make it easier to remove. Be very careful when using a blowtorch, as it can be dangerous if not used properly.
- Call A Professional: If you cannot remove the lock nut after trying these methods, it may be best to call a professional plumber to handle the job. They have the tools and expertise to remove stuck lock nuts safely and effectively.
Step By Step Guide On Removing a Stuck Lock Nut From a Sink Drain
Installing a lock nut in the sink above secures the sink drain assembly. Various techniques can be used if you have trouble removing a stuck lock nut while replacing a sink drain.
Never give up if one method fails. Keep trying until you succeed. In the end, you can remove that stuck lock nut from the sink drain.
Things You’ll Need:
- Rags/towels
- Bathroom cleaner
- Hammer
- Locking pliers
- Wrench
- Plumber’s torch
- Nut splitter
Step 1
You can use the bathroom cleaner to remove a stuck nut by spraying it on and wiping it off with a towel or rag. It will prevent mold and mildew from growing on the surface and make your tools easier to grip.
Step 2
Use penetrating lubricant to lubricate the nut. You should allow this to soak in according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer.
Step 3
Use a hammer to tap the lock nut sideways. Be sure to repeat this process on all sides of the lock nut. Remove the nut by loosening it with a wrench.
Step 4
Place a pair of locking pliers around the nut and tighten it. Drive the nut counterclockwise with the plier’s end by tapping it with a hammer.
Step 5
Make sure the nut is warm by using a plumber’s torch. As a result of the heat, the screw will expand, which makes removal easier. Take a wrench and loosen the nut.
Step 6
You can split the lock nut with a nut splitter. If it has not already been removed, the p-trap on the sink will need to be removed first.
Placing a bucket underneath a trap will make it easy to remove it. An adjustable wrench is needed to loosen both couplings on the trap.
Pour the trap into the bucket after removing it from the sink plumbing. As you slide the nut splitter over the tailpiece and the lock nut, it will be over the lock nut. The lock nut will separate and fall off by tightening the splitter with a wrench.
Tip
A heat gun can replace a hair dryer but be cautious. You can ignite anything flammable with a heat gun, such as toilet paper, tissues, and drywall.
Warning
- Safety glasses should always be worn when removing a stuck locknut from a sink drain.
- In a confined space under a sink, never use a torch.
Final Words
PVC locknuts and zinc metal composite locknuts are also available, but most are made from soft metal. Sink drain locknuts are usually made of soft metal, usually zinc metal composite.
No matter what material they are made of, they are thin and are only used to create a solid seal between the drain basket and the underside of the sink.
When the locknuts are installed – possibly for decades – they will only need to be removed in case of basket replacement or leaks.
