I hear you, but I’ll admit—I tried to cheap out with a bargain-bin drain kit once. Thought I was clever until the cabinet started smelling like a swamp. Anyone actually had luck with those “universal” kits, or is it always a dice roll?
Tried one of those “universal” kits a couple years back—big mistake. The fit was off, threads stripped way too easy, and it leaked no matter how much plumber’s putty I threw at it. Honestly, I just bite the bullet now and get the brand-specific parts. Costs a bit more up front, but at least I’m not mopping up swamp water under the sink every month. Those bargain kits are a gamble I’m not willing to take again.
Tried one of those “universal” kits a couple years back—big mistake. The fit was off, threads stripped way too easy, and it leaked no matter how much plumber’s putty I threw at it.
That’s a common headache with the universal kits. They’re marketed as a one-size-fits-all solution, but in reality, tolerances can be all over the place. Did you check if the tailpiece or basket strainer was metal or plastic? I’ve noticed plastic threads especially are notorious for stripping out. Sometimes, even with brand-specific parts, you’ll get a dud, but at least you know the fit’s right. Out of curiosity, did you try using Teflon tape along with the putty, or just stick with the putty? Sometimes a combo can help, but if the threads are shot, nothing really saves it.
I hear you on the universal kits—been burned a couple times myself. Here’s what I do now: skip the plastic parts entirely, especially for rentals. Metal basket strainers and tailpieces cost a bit more but hold up way better, and you don’t have to worry about threads turning to mush. Teflon tape helps, but if the threads are junk, it’s just lipstick on a pig. Honestly, I’ve found it’s cheaper in the long run to just buy the right part from the start, even if it means an extra trip to the hardware store.
Ever had a metal strainer seize up or corrode, though? I’ve seen a few that were almost welded in place after a couple years. Makes me wonder if there’s a “best” brand or if it’s just luck of the draw. Do you stick with a certain manufacturer, or just grab whatever’s on the shelf?
