Hex key set
Use it for: Most slip-on tub spouts use a small set screw underneath that loosens with an Allen key.
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How to Replace a Slip On Bathtub Spout With Diverter
To replace a slip on bathtub spout with diverter, confirm your spout is the slip-on style with a small set screw underneath, loosen that screw, slide the old spout off the copper pipe, clean the pipe, then slide the new spout on and tighten the set screw.
This is usually a manageable homeowner repair when the pipe stub-out is solid and undamaged. The key is making sure you have the right style of spout before you buy anything, then installing the new one straight so it seals at the wall and the diverter works normally.
Before you start: Match the replacement part to your exact bathtub before ordering.
Safety first
- Work slowly around the pipe stub-out so you do not bend or loosen plumbing inside the wall.
- Do not pry hard against tile, fiberglass, or the wall surround when removing the old spout.
- Use the correct size hex key to avoid stripping the set screw.
- If the wall or pipe feels loose, stop before turning a simple spout swap into a bigger plumbing repair.
Tools you may need
Flashlight
Use it for: Helps you see the underside of the spout and the set screw clearly.
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Tape measure
Use it for: Lets you check the pipe size and stub-out length so the replacement spout fits.
Shop tape measures
Non scratch cleaning pad or rag
Use it for: Used to clean mineral buildup and old residue off the pipe and wall area.
Shop non-scratch cleaning pads
Clear silicone caulk
Use it for: A small bead at the wall can help keep water from getting behind the spout if the manufacturer allows it.
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Step-by-step fix
Step 1: Confirm this is the right spout to replace
- Look under the bathtub spout near the wall for a small set screw.
- Pull up the diverter knob and note the problem you are fixing, such as water still coming from the spout during a shower or a spout that leaks, feels loose, or is badly corroded.
- Check that the spout slides onto a smooth pipe stub-out rather than threading onto a nipple.
- Measure the pipe and compare the needed fit and length to the replacement spout packaging or listing before you start.
If it works: You have confirmed the old part is a slip-on bathtub spout with diverter and your replacement is the same style and fit.
If it doesn’t: If there is no set screw and the spout appears to twist onto threads, stop and use a threaded tub spout replacement process instead.
Stop if:
- The pipe coming out of the wall is loose, bent, badly corroded, or moves when touched.
- The wall around the spout is soft, swollen, or shows signs of hidden water damage.
Step 2: Set up the area and loosen the old spout
- Turn the tub faucet off fully and make sure no one turns the water on while you are working.
- Put a towel in the tub to protect the finish and catch the set screw if it drops.
- Use the flashlight to find the set screw on the underside of the spout near the back.
- Insert the correct hex key and loosen the set screw several turns. You usually do not need to remove it completely.
- Hold the spout with one hand as you loosen the screw so it does not scrape the wall or pipe.
If it works: The set screw is loose and the spout is ready to slide off.
If it doesn’t: If the set screw is stuck, apply steady pressure with the correct size hex key and try again after clearing any mineral buildup from the screw opening.
Stop if:
- The set screw strips badly and you cannot loosen it without damaging the pipe stub-out.
- The spout or pipe starts twisting in the wall when you try to loosen the screw.
Step 3: Remove the old spout and inspect the pipe
- Pull the spout straight out while gently wiggling it side to side.
- If it resists, keep the set screw loose and work the spout off slowly instead of prying against the wall.
- Once the spout is off, inspect the exposed pipe for dents, deep scratches, heavy corrosion, or leftover rubber or metal pieces from the old spout.
- Wipe the pipe clean and remove mineral buildup so the new spout can slide on smoothly.
- Clean the wall surface around the pipe so the new spout can sit flat.
If it works: The old spout is off and the pipe stub-out is clean and ready for the new spout.
If it doesn’t: If the old spout will not slide off, double-check that the set screw is fully loosened and keep working it off gently without forcing the pipe.
Stop if:
- The copper pipe is crushed, split, or too damaged to seal inside a new slip-on spout.
- The pipe length or diameter does not match the replacement spout requirements.
Step 4: Install the new slip-on bathtub spout with diverter
- Loosen the new spout's set screw enough for the spout to slide onto the pipe easily.
- Align the spout so the opening faces down and the diverter knob is upright.
- Slide the new spout straight onto the pipe until it sits snug against the wall or escutcheon area.
- If the manufacturer allows it and the wall gap needs protection, apply a small bead of clear silicone around the top and sides where the spout meets the wall, leaving the bottom open so any hidden moisture can escape.
- Tighten the set screw firmly with the hex key so the spout does not wobble, but do not overtighten and crush the pipe.
If it works: The new spout is seated straight, snug to the wall, and secure on the pipe.
If it doesn’t: If the spout will not slide on fully, remove it and recheck for burrs, debris, or a mismatch in pipe size or required stub-out length.
Stop if:
- The spout cannot sit flush because the pipe stub-out is the wrong length for the replacement.
- Tightening the set screw makes the pipe move in the wall.
Step 5: Test the seal and diverter function
- Turn the tub water on slowly and watch the back of the spout where it meets the wall.
- Let water run from the tub spout first and check for drips underneath or around the wall opening.
- Pull up the diverter and switch to shower mode.
- Watch for water continuing to pour heavily from the tub spout, and check that the diverter stays engaged during normal flow.
- Turn the water off and wipe the area dry.
If it works: The spout stays secure, does not leak at the wall, and the diverter sends water to the shower as expected.
If it doesn’t: If you see a small leak or wobble, retighten the set screw and confirm the spout is fully seated on a clean, undamaged pipe. If the diverter still does not work well, recheck that the replacement spout is the correct style and fit.
Stop if:
- Water leaks from inside the wall or behind the tub surround.
- The new spout still will not divert properly even though it is installed correctly and the fit is right.
Step 6: Confirm the repair holds in real use
- Use the tub and shower normally for a day or two.
- Check again after a full shower for drips at the wall, movement in the spout, or water escaping from the tub spout when the shower is on.
- Run your hand around the wall area after use to make sure moisture is not collecting behind the spout.
- If you applied silicone, let it cure as directed before exposing it to heavy water.
If it works: The new spout stays tight, dry, and diverts water properly during normal use.
If it doesn’t: If the spout loosens or leaks again, remove it and inspect the pipe stub-out more closely for damage or poor fit that a new spout alone cannot correct.
Stop if:
- You find recurring moisture in the wall area, hidden damage, or a loose pipe connection inside the wall.
Replacement Parts
Find a slip on bathtub spout with diverter on Amazon
Match the replacement part to your exact bathtub before ordering.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Repair Riot may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Verify the repair
- The new spout sits straight and tight to the wall.
- There are no drips from the underside of the spout or from the wall opening during tub use.
- The diverter pulls up and sends water to the shower without heavy flow continuing from the tub spout.
- The spout does not twist or wobble when handled gently after testing.
FAQ
How do I know if my bathtub spout is slip-on or threaded?
A slip-on spout usually has a small set screw on the underside near the wall and slides onto a smooth pipe. A threaded spout usually unscrews from a threaded pipe nipple and often has no set screw.
Do I need to shut off the house water to replace a tub spout?
Usually no. For this repair, the faucet just needs to be fully off because you are replacing the spout at the end of the tub outlet, not opening the supply lines.
Why does water still come out of the tub spout when the shower is on?
A small amount can be normal, but a heavy flow usually means the diverter inside the spout is worn or the replacement spout is not the right fit for the pipe setup.
Can I reuse the old set screw?
Use the hardware that comes with the new spout when possible. It is matched to that spout and is less likely to give you fit or holding problems.
Should I caulk around the bathtub spout?
A small bead on the top and sides can help keep splash water out if the spout instructions allow it. Leave the bottom uncaulked so any hidden moisture can drain out instead of getting trapped.