Bathtub Installation

[joe51]

I want to replace a fiberglass bathtub in the guest bath, however, it shares the same plumbing wall with another bathroom which has a 1-piece shower stall opposite the bathtub. My question is: After I remove the bathtub, how can I get access to install a new drain in a new bathtub, with a 1-piece shower stall directly opposite the bathtub. Can this be done without having to remove the shower stall for access to the bathroom drain? I am considering installing a new cast iron tub in place of the fiberglass one, however not sure how I am going to get access to connect the drain. I appreciate any advice you can offer on this subject. Thank You

 

[johnjh2o]

It can be done but it takes precise measuring. You have to set the trap with the tub waste and overflow connected to the trap so that when you drop the tub in your last connections are the tub shoe and the overflow. The waste and overflow must not only be on the correct center but it must also be at the correct height. Once the tub is installed you can check for leaks by using a mirror and flashlight inside the open head wall of the tub.

John

 

[joe51]

Thank You. However, even if my last connections are the tub shoe and overflow, is there enough room for tightening these connections with no direct access from the other side of the wall where the shower stall is located? Thanks

 

[LiQuId]

You would tighten both the drain and the overflow down after the tub was in place, when dropping the tub a piece of Tie wire cut and inserted through the tub overflow, the Foam washer and lastly the Piping of the Overflow will ensure that you dont lose the Faom gasket while dropping the tub. The wire acts as a guide.

 

[johnjh2o]

By last connection I mean tightening the chrome shoe into the waste and overflow through the tub and tightening the two screws that hold the face plate onto the tub.

John

 

[joe51]

Thank you very much for your advice.

 

[joe51]

Thank you very much, John. I can now visually see what has to be done. I am relieved to know that I will not have to be tearing out my shower to get to this. Again, Thanks, Joseph

 

[johnjh2o]

Your welcome Joseph hope all goes well with your tub replacement. Your making a good choice by going with cast iron. It may take a little more work but when is complete you will have something that will give you many years of service.


John