hi, I need to remove the tub drain in the photo. It does not have any grate at the bottom that I can leverage with a pliers. There are two little, shallow notches on the inside wall opposite one another.. I know I can get a drain removal tool that I will never use again but I’m wondering if there is another trick to get this out without buying new tool.
Thanks, George
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The photo didn't make it.
George
Please reduce the size of the photo and repost. I can embed it in your post, but as of now it'll reduce the size of the type and fill the page.
To your question, soak the heck out of the area with a penetrating, rust busting oil if you don't think it'll stain the tub. Have used this method when demoing the tub in a remodel.
use a big flat bladed screw driver, chisel or drift at the notches to tap it in the direction to loosen. You might have to alternate the direction to break the seal.
Rather than penetrating oil, try to find some oxalic acid (often sold as "wood bleach"). it dissolves rust and corrosion.
Rector makes a tub drain wrench for just your application. It's called the Golden Extractor and will get it right out.
What good is a project if you don't get to buy a new tool?
I have always been able to spin those drains out by "expanding" a pair of channel lock pliers inside the drain. Often to get it started, as Calvin noted, I will use a beater chisel in the groove to persuade it.