Is there any way to install an overflow pipe for a bathtub without access to the outside of the tub? I removed the overflow plate to snake our clogged drain and dropped the overflow pipe. It was not attached at all to the rest of the pipe below (seems it was cut about 2 inches short, or another fitting is missing). I tried fishing for this pipe with a coat hanger to no avail. Additionally as it does not connect to the rest of the drain, I am questioning the need for it at all.

Hi Robert

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I am questioning the need for it at all

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Well, question no more because that overflow pipe is CRITICALLY important to your tub drain system. Here, the pipe not only acts as an overflow pipe when taking a tub, but the connection between the overflow pipe and the tub drain is so low that you can easily flood the space behind/under the tub if you drain the tub with any real amount of water in it, especially if the tub drain is even slightly blocked up...UGH!

You'll need to gain access from underneath (if tub is on 1st floor you should be able to reach up inside the tub waste hole in the floor and find the pipe and reconnect), or you'll need to cut a hole in behind the tub valve and get to the overflow pipe that way.

I wanted to post a picture, but the site is having a problem with that right now, so I recommend googling for the image of a tub waste and overflow assembly so you can see what I am talking about!

Mark

I fully agree with Mark. We always cut in a access panel in the wall behind the front of the tub for servicing. If you haven't one you have to cut one in. Let me see if I can show you a image to work with. Good luck, Tom