I had a plumber fix a tub drain plunger. Apparently, instead of fixing or adjusting the old type (lever to visible stopper), he must have replaced it with a newer type (lever to internal stopper). Problem is that the lever is now disconnected from the internal stopper. The eye hook at the bottom of the linkage appears in tact. I fear that this may mean that the internal plunger is made of plastic and may have broken leaving nothing to grab onto. Would this be a reasonable concern? Regardless of the condition of the plunger, any suggestions on removing it from the place where it is lodged? Should I attempt to go through the drain pipe with some sort of heavy wire? Can't imagine this would actually work... Or is there a tool for grabbing from the top if the attachment point is, in fact broken?

Reference of the "old" and "new" type are reference to a post entitled "bathtub drain lever removal " that discussion contains an answer that depicts the two types of drain plugs.

Hi Funky:

Are you sure that the plumber didn't remove the plunger and that the drain isn't simply clogged?

You said you found the eye hook closed... could be that the plumber removed the plunger and closed the eye hook... it's what I would do.

Double check to be sure the drain isn't clogged by sending a snake down the overflow tube... if it passes by the tub waste and into the trap beneath then the drain is clogged (continue snaking). If it bumps into the plunger then you can try a coat hanger to try and catch the plunger... should work to remove.

Back to you...

Mark