Quick Answer:
If you find corroded linkage hardware under your sink and the pivot rod or clips look eaten away, don’t wait for it to snap. Inspect the rusted clips/nuts, test whether the pivot joint is binding, and replace the corroded parts promptly. In most cases you can swap the linkage parts yourself with a small set of tools; replace the whole assembly if parts are badly pitted or the pivot won’t move freely.
Why This Happens
- Moisture and occasional drips under the sink speed up corrosion on metal parts.
- Mineral deposits from hard water can make moving parts bind and wear the finish, exposing bare metal to rust.
- Old or thin-plated hardware corrodes faster; once a clip or nut is weakened, the linkage loses proper alignment and can fail.
Step-by-Step What to Do
Gather basic tools
- Adjustable wrench or small nut driver
- Pliers and needle-nose pliers
- Replacement pivot rod, clevis, and retaining clip (or a sink linkage kit)
- Shop towel, small container for loose parts, and penetrating oil (optional)
Inspect the linkage
- Clear out the cabinet and place a towel or shallow pan under the drain to catch drips and small parts.
- Visually check the rod, clevis, and retaining clip. Carefully feel (with a glove) the clip and nut for heavy pitting.
- Check rusted clips/nuts and see if the pivot joint is binding by moving the lift rod at the faucet while watching the pivot under the sink. If motion is stiff or stops, the pivot is binding.
Free a stuck pivot (if lightly corroded)
- Apply a small amount of penetrating oil to the pivot area and let it sit a few minutes. Work the pivot back and forth gently with pliers; avoid forcing it hard.
- If the retaining clip is intact but tight, slip it off carefully and remove the pivot to clean and lubricate the joint before reinstalling with a new clip.
Replace corroded parts
- If clips, nuts, or the pivot rod show significant rust, remove them and install new parts. Most hardware sizes are standard and sold as kits at hardware stores.
- Fit the replacement pivot rod and secure it with a new retaining clip and nut. Test the lift rod action—movement should be smooth and the stopper should open and close fully.
- If the linkage is bent, or the pivot hole in the drain flange is badly corroded, replace the whole linkage assembly or the affected drain parts.
Test and finish
- Operate the faucet lift rod and watch the stopper several times. Ensure the pivot joint is not binding and that the stopper seals.
- If you encounter a stopper issue after repairs, check alignment and clip position; this is a common follow-up to a linkage fix. You may want to read Stopper fails after faucet install for troubleshooting tips.
- Wipe up residue and double-check for leaks around the drain flange and nut.
What Not to Do
- Do not wait for rusted linkage to snap—replace corroded hardware. A sudden failure can let the stopper fall into the drain or cause parts to jam.
- Don’t force a frozen pivot with excessive torque; that can break thin clips or damage the drain flange.
- Don’t ignore nearby signs of leaks or heavy corrosion on the drain body—those often mean a larger replacement is needed.
When to Call a Professional
- If the pivot or drain flange is so corroded that parts break as you work, call a plumber to remove and replace the drain assembly safely.
- If you find active leaks from the drain or trap that won’t stop with simple tightening, a professional can diagnose seal or pipe damage.
- If the stopper or linkage problem is part of a larger faucet replacement or involves difficult access, a plumber can complete the job quickly and avoid accidental damage.
Safety Notes
- Wear gloves and eye protection when working under the sink—rust flakes and cleaning chemicals can irritate skin and eyes.
- Place a towel or small pan under the work area to catch small parts and water.
- Turn off the water only if you must remove faucet parts that connect to supply lines. Most linkage work does not require shutting off water, but be prepared to stop the water if something else is disturbed.
Common Homeowner Questions
- How quickly should I replace a rusty clip? Replace it as soon as you notice heavy rust or movement is stiff—don’t wait for failure.
- Can I lubricate a rusty pivot and keep using it? Light lubrication can help short-term, but replace rusted components soon because rust will return and weaken parts.
- What if the stopper falls into the drain? Remove the pivot and use a magnet or long needle-nose pliers to retrieve it, then replace the damaged linkage parts and test movement; if retrieval fails, call a pro.
If the linkage becomes disconnected while you work, treat the situation calmly and follow a simple reassembly using new clips and confirm movement—this is a common fix and often covered in guides about Linkage disconnected under sink.