How to Retrieve an Item Dropped Down the Sink Drain – Part 4

Maintenance, Plumbing | August 22, 2009 by Bob Jackson | 4 Comments

This repair is continued from Part 3.

Reassemble the Pop-Up Drain Mechanism

To reassemble the pop-up drain, orient the stopper such that the bottom loop faces the back of sink to catch the end of the pivot rod:

Bathroom Sink Stopper

Insert the stopper and hold almost all the way in while you insert the pivot rod into the drain T.

Reinsert the Sink Stopper

Insert the pivot rod into the drain T while holding the sink stopper. Working by feel, a bit of trial and error is needed to insert the rod into the end of sink stopper. You’ll have it in a couple seconds.

Bathroom Sink: Pivot Rod (Ball Rod)

Screw on the pivot rod retaining nut.
Place the spring clip on the rod.
Put rod end in the 2nd hole of the clevis (or whichever hole it was in before).
Secure the rod and clevis with the spring clip.

Pop-Up Drain: Pivot Rod Retaining Nut

Adjust the Throw of the Pop-Up Drain Mechanism

The throw or up/down movement of the pop-up drain is adjusted by sliding the spring clip along the pivot rod.

Begin by pushing the drain handle all the way down (see inset photo below) and slide the spring clip along the pivot rod until the height of the sink stopper is approximately 1/4 inch above the drain as shown. If you later find the water isn’t draining quickly enough, increase the stopper clearance until you are satisfied.

Bathroom Sink: Pop-up Drain Adjustment

Pull the drain handle up to confirm the stopper is fully seated with a good seal.

Bathroom Sink: Pop-Up Drain Adjustment

Test for Leaks

Test for leaks by closing the drain and filling the sink with some water. Watch the water level while listening for leaks.

Bathroom Sink: Pop-Up Drain Testing

Next, open the drain and inspect the P-trap and drain plumbing for leaks. If you’re worried about a slow drip that might not be readily evident, place a section of toilet paper on the bottom of the sink cabinet under the trap. Any slow drips will be readily seen. Tighten the slip nuts a bit if necessary.

Take care,

Bob Jackson

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« How to Retrieve an Item Dropped Down the Sink Drain – Part 3

How to Install a Solatube Skylight – Part 2 »

4 Responses to “How to Retrieve an Item Dropped Down the Sink Drain – Part 4”

kevin
April 3, 2010 at 4:56 pm #

awesome article, nice pics, clear instructions. thank you!!
Eugene
December 7, 2011 at 3:47 pm #

This is the most clear, complete and therefore useful instruction. Thank you very much, Bob!
Katie
December 21, 2011 at 12:15 pm #

You made my day, Bob! My cat knocked an earring down the sink and I wasn’t sure how to retrieve it. Thanks for the clear step-by-step instructions and photos. I had no idea it was so easy.