How to Replace a Trip Lever Tub Stopper

It’s easy to recognize a trip lever bathtub stopper: you will see a lever protruding out of the overflow plate, and there should only be a drain cover over the drain without a visible stopper covering it. Many bathtubs are equipped with these types of tub stoppers that operate through a linking arm that is attached to the lever and the stopper right under the drain. Over time, these types of tub stoppers can start to leak water and not hold like they should, as the linking arm may need adjustment or replacement.

If you notice your trip lever tub stopper is no longer holding water, this is a good time to replace it with a reliable push-pull bathtub stopper.

How to Remove Your Trip Lever Tub Stopper

It’s easy to remove your trip lever tub stopper through the overflow plate, and you should only need a screwdriver. The overflow plate very likely has two screws on the side with the lever sticking out in the middle. Before you unscrew the screws and start to pull the overflow plate out, be sure to get a bucket and a rag handy so as you gently pull out the linkage, you can drop it straight in the bucket and not dirty up the tub. You should be able to pull this linkage out fairly easily unless it is so corroded that it breaks away from the trip lever.

If the linkage breaks accidentally, fish a wire through the overflow tube with a little hook at the end to grab a hold of the broken linkage and plunger and pull it out through the overflow tube. Now, you can easily install the Innovator® Snap-On Bathtub Overflow Plate and the SimpliQuick® Tub Fix for a reliable tub stopper that won’t leak water.

The SimpliQuick® Tub Fix and Innovator® Snap-On Overflow Plate come together in many beautiful finish options and are the easiest way to upgrade the look of your tub in just minutes. Watco makes it easy to upgrade your bathtub by yourself without calling a plumber. With Watco tub fix solutions like the SimpliQuick® Tub Fix, there’s no need to remove your current bathtub drain to install the shiny new tub stopper.

FixMyDrain.com is your one-stop for the quickest and easiest tub stopper replacements with quality Watco products that will last. We offer simple video instructions and exceptional customer service. Contact us with any questions and upgrade your tub today with a new tub stopper and easy-to-install overflow plate.