bathroomplumbing
I am having a major hard time trying to remove this metal P-trap. The nut in the back will not budge no matter how hard I try. I was able to remove the front one relatively easily using some pliers but not the back. Does anyone have any tips on how to remove these metals nuts from old plumbing? Also yes there is water dripping in the back, it's not a leak just a mistake I made haha. Also if I am able to remove this, can I just replace the whole trap with a PVC one? Thank you
The typical mid-trap joint of a plastic P-trap does not have a washer. Instead there is a tapered end that fits down into a smooth beveled hole on the opposite piece. The tightening of the nut forces them together to form a tight seal. Your's looks to be this type.
If this joint is leaking for you then there are several probable causes.
It may be possible to stop the leak by a thorough cleaning of the parts. If it is a damaged part then the simplest fix may be to purchase a new set of trap pipe, nuts and washers and just replace the thing. These parts are not at all expensive.
Why do you think the bathtub is not currently vented?
Not all traps need to be individually vented so you're not always going to see a vent if you don't know what to look for. It's a little hard to tell from your photos, but I think your bathtub is wet vented through the kitchen sink:
Please correct me if I've got the arraignment of your pipes wrong.
Best Answer
Yes, once removed you may use a plastic trap assembly to replace it.
You will need a bigger tool, like a large pipe wrench or large "Channellock" type plier. It won't be easy (upside down headfirst in a cabinet with restricted space) but that's why plumbers are well paid. Try soaking the nut thoroughly with a penetrating oil overnight.
They make offset wrenches for this type of job, but they are expensive. I have never needed one, just a big pipe wrench.