Since 1997, HomeTips has guided millions of homeowners with original, expert advice for DIY home improvement and repair. Founder Don Vandervort, a nationally recognized authority, has written more than 30 books and countless magazine articles, been a host on HGTV, and served as MSN's home improvement expert. MORE
A bathroom sink typically has two fixture holes on 4-, 6- or 8-inch centers. The wider types are meant to receive a split-set faucet, with faucet handles separate from the spout. The 4- or 6-inch holes may receive a center-set or a single-lever faucet.
Pop-up stoppers move up and down to open or close sink drains. Sink pop-ups are raised and lowered with a knob, usually located near a faucet handle. The knob is actually the head of a lift rod fastened to a clevis, a connecting bar. The clevis connects to a pivot rod-and-ball assembly—that is, a rod that runs through a rubber pivot ball and slopes slightly uphill to the tailpiece of the stopper.
Pushing the knob and the lift rod down causes the pivot rod to push the stopper up; pulling the knob up causes the pivot rod to pull the stopper down.
If you want to remove the assembly, you may be able to pull it right out. Or, you may have to twist it to unhook it from the clevis.
