I am installing a new bathroom sink and my tailpiece is too long. I have tried a hacksaw and it barely scratches the surface of the metal. Is there an easier way to cut the metal tailpiece. Also, how do I determine the exact length it should be.

Thanks.

A hacksaw with good teeth will cut through a tailpiece pretty quick. I would try again knowing that you have the proper tool for the job and once you get a good start through the metal the rest will go easily.

Another option would be a cut off wheel on a dremel tool, if you own one or care to purchase one (wear safety goggles here).

Another option would be to purchase a cheap copper tubing cutter large enough to cut 1.25" tubing.

Another option would be a mini hacksaw... used in tight spaces and would work nicely here.

Good luck!

Mark

Your tail piece must be heavy coated with chrome or brass. That is why the hacksaw slips. We use tube cutter to cut tail piece to size.

As far as how much to cut off - well, it depends on the situation. Tail piece should be long enough to be fully inserted into p-trap and seal. I suggest that you do "dry run", meaning, assemble and hand-tighten all drain pieces, including tail piece, first. You doing this for measuring purposes only. Then, cut tail piece accordingly. There is lots of play, so no worries. But remember: it is always good to cut less than more. If you didn't cut enough on the first try, you can always cut off a bit more on second try

Hope that helps

Milo

Is this tailpiece a part of the OEM sink tailpiece or added on? Most faucet tailpieces today, unless high end, are polypropylene.