## How to Remove a Kitchen Sink Tailpiece
A tailpiece is a short, curved pipe that connects the drainpipe to the bottom of the kitchen sink. It can become clogged with food and debris over time, which can lead to slow drainage or even a complete blockage. If you are experiencing drainage problems, you may need to remove the tailpiece to clean it or replace it.
### Tools You Will Need
* Adjustable wrench
* Bucket
* Rags
* New tailpiece (if needed)
* Plumber’s putty (if needed)
### Step-by-Step Instructions
1. **Turn off the water supply.** Locate the water supply valves under the sink and turn them clockwise to the closed position.
2. **Place a bucket under the tailpiece.** This will catch any water that drains out when you remove the tailpiece.
3. **Loosen the nuts on the tailpiece.** Use the adjustable wrench to loosen the nuts that connect the tailpiece to the drainpipe and to the sink. Do not remove the nuts completely.
4. **Pull down on the tailpiece.** Once the nuts are loose, pull down on the tailpiece to detach it from the drainpipe and the sink.
5. **Clean the tailpiece.** If the tailpiece is clogged, use a brush or a wire to remove any food or debris. If the tailpiece is damaged, you will need to replace it.
6. **Apply plumber’s putty to the new tailpiece.** If you are replacing the tailpiece, apply a thin layer of plumber’s putty to the rim of the new tailpiece. This will help to create a watertight seal.
7. **Insert the new tailpiece.** Insert the new tailpiece into the drainpipe and onto the bottom of the sink.
8. **Tighten the nuts.** Use the adjustable wrench to tighten the nuts that connect the tailpiece to the drainpipe and to the sink. Do not overtighten the nuts.
9. **Turn on the water supply.** Turn the water supply valves counterclockwise to the open position. Check for any leaks around the tailpiece. If there are any leaks, tighten the nuts further.
10. **Dispose of the old tailpiece.** Wrap the old tailpiece in a rag and dispose of it in the trash.
### Tips
* If you are having difficulty removing the tailpiece, you can use a pair of channel-lock pliers to grip the tailpiece and pull it down.
* If the nuts on the tailpiece are rusted, you may need to use a penetrating oil to loosen them.
* Be careful not to overtighten the nuts when you are reassembling the tailpiece. Overtightening the nuts can damage the tailpiece or the sink.
* If you are not comfortable removing the tailpiece yourself, you can call a plumber for assistance.
### Conclusion
Removing a kitchen sink tailpiece is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. By following these steps, you can easily clean or replace the tailpiece and restore your sink to proper working order.