Toilets, Sinks, Showers, Tubs and Disposals - Kitchen Sink Basket Strainer - Leaks
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dlwille
12-28-05, 01:40 PM
I've just installed a new used Cast Iron Porcelain Kitchen sink. I got the wife a new faucet for Christmas and the new used sink (better than the old one). The Faucet and Disposer Drain side went in without a hitch for an amateur plumber. The problem I’m having is with the Basket Strainer – I’ve packed the rim with plumbers putty, pushed firmly down, installed the Rubber Gasket then the Fiber Gasket then the Lock Nut. I’ve had my wife hold the Strainer Basket from the top with a pair of pliers handles and a screw driver, while I tightened the Lock Nut with a hammer and screw driver. I’ve done this about four times now, each with a different amount of Plumbers Putty. I hook up the P-trap and turn on the water to check for leaks. Each time I get a leak at the Basket Strainer threads and Gaskets, the P-trap is dry. Does anyone have any suggestions?
majakdragon
12-28-05, 02:16 PM
dlwille, Welcome to the DIY Forums.
Being cast iron, the sink may have a small casting "lump" around the sealing surface under the sink. Being used, it may also have some sealer the previous owner used (silicone, putty etc) that is causing your leak. Run your fingers around the surface to feel for raised surfaces that may create your problem. Good luck and reply back with any other questions using the reply button at the bottom of this post.
Being cast iron, the sink may have a small casting "lump" around the sealing surface under the sink. Being used, it may also have some sealer the previous owner used (silicone, putty etc) that is causing your leak. Run your fingers around the surface to feel for raised surfaces that may create your problem. Good luck and reply back with any other questions using the reply button at the bottom of this post.
dlwille
12-28-05, 02:32 PM
I thoroughly cleaned the surfaces and did some light sanding after I removed the original basket strainer. I’m not aware of any bumps. I am using a new rubber gasket. I started out using a new basket strainer, but soon discovered it didn't have enough threads. Now I'm using the original basket strainer.
I've now solved the problem. After discussing what I've done with my 96 year old grandfather - I believe more is better! I had read several instructions for installing basket stainers - they had said to use 1/16" to 1/8" diameter plumbers putty. In my final attempt I used about a 1/2" diameter or the size of my pinky. I made sure the plumbers putty squished out all the way around the ring in the sink and under the sink. It worked! Now on the the next job in the jar.
I've now solved the problem. After discussing what I've done with my 96 year old grandfather - I believe more is better! I had read several instructions for installing basket stainers - they had said to use 1/16" to 1/8" diameter plumbers putty. In my final attempt I used about a 1/2" diameter or the size of my pinky. I made sure the plumbers putty squished out all the way around the ring in the sink and under the sink. It worked! Now on the the next job in the jar.