How to Repair a Gerber Tub Drain

Remove the lift and turn stopper, if present. Grab the small extension nub at the top of the lift and turn stopper. Rotate this counterclockwise to remove. Pull the stopper off the center support. If you have trouble removing the nub, use two pairs of pliers, one to hold the stopper steady, the other to turn the nub. If the stopper is the only part of the Gerber tub drain that needs to be repaired, stop here. Otherwise continue to Step 2.

Remove the tub drain flange, the metal or PVC fixture that drains the water in the end of the tub. This step may be difficult because the tub drain flanges are, because of their nature, secured in place tightly. One trick is to insert two screwdrivers into the holes in the drain. Grab the screwdrivers with a pair of heavy duty pliers as you would a handle and turn counterclockwise. You can also either buy or rent a tool called a tub drain remover to assist you. Lastly, if this is an older Gerber tub drain and is stuck or rusted in place, you can cut it out with a rotary tool.

Clean around the drain opening. Remove any rust spots with rust remover and a brush. Clean away any debris.

Check the Gerber tub drain flange for damage. Replace it with a new one, if necessary. Turn the drain upside down. Roll out a thin strip of plumber's putty. Apply this around the diameter of the tub drain.

Turn the drain right side up and screw into the drain opening. Tighten with the pliers or drain removal tool. Wipe away any excess putty.

Replace the stopper. Tighten in place by screwing in counterclockwise. Replace the extension nub.