How to Install a Kitchen Sink Strainer Basket
Instructions
1
Clean the area around the sink drain with a rag to remove any dirt or debris. You want a smooth surface when installing the sink strainer basket to ensure a leak-free seal.
2
Pinch a small ball of plumber's putty out of the container and place the putty in the palm of your hand. Roll the putty between your hands until you have a short, 1/8-inch rope. Place the putty rope on the bottom of the sink strainer basket flange. The flange is the portion of the basket that sits around the circumference of the sink drain.
3
Place the sink strainer basket into the sink drain, pressing down slightly to seat the putty around the hole.
4
Take the rubber and paper washer that come with the sink strainer basket, along with the lock nut, and go under the sink. Place the rubber washer over the sink strainer basket threads, and slide the paper washer over the threads. Thread the lock nut onto the sink basket until it is hand tight against the washers and sink.
5
Ask a helper to place the handles of a pair of pliers into the cross hairs in the center of the strainer basket. This will help keep the basket from turning as you tighten the lock nut. Tighten the lock nut another two turns with a pipe wrench.
6
Wrap plumber's tape around the bottom threads of the sink strainer basket. Position the end of your sink drain pipe under the basket, and connect the pipe to the basket with the pipe slip nut. Turn the slip nut another 3/4 turn with a pair of slip joint pliers. Go to the top of the sink and use a utility knife to remove the excess plumber's putty from around the strainer basket.
