[dkaminski]

My tub is clogged, we have use several drain openers and none have worked. How can I open a cast iron clean out trap the nut will not come loose. What is the best way to remove a barrel trap??

[massplumber2008]

Hi Dkaminiski

This isn't something that is usually easy for a homeowner to mess with. Here, these traps usually break apart and now you have a major issue on your hands... emergency fashion! You could try cutting a groove into the cap/plug using a chisel and hammer, and then hammer the cap/plug around to loosen it... but only as a last resort!

If the trap is accessible then your best bet with these older "barrel type" traps is to cut it out and replace it with a new DRUM TRAP (barrel-shaped). Snake the drain with the trap removed and then rejoin all.

If that fails to float your boat then another "quick fix" would be to take a wetted rag and plug the overflow tube (remove faceplate and stick rag in tight) and then add about 2" of water to the tub and use a PLUNGER to plunge away at the tub drain. Here, by plugging the overflow tube you actually force the air from the plunger down the drain (and not up the tube).

Try it and let me know how you make out, OK?

Mark