The Moen shower slide bar assembly is designed for vertical mounting on a shower wall, allowing for adjustable shower head height and angle. Installation involves securing the slide bar to the wall using screws and anchors, with considerations for stud location. The documentation details specific measurements, tool recommendations, and a warning regarding the flow control o-ring. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the installation process based on available documentation.
Understanding the Moen Shower Slide Bar
The Moen shower slide bar functions as a vertically oriented mounting system for a shower head. Once installed, the shower head can be secured to a holder on the bar and then slid up and down to achieve the desired height. The shower head can also be removed from the holder for use at various angles. The assembly consists of a bar, mounting brackets, and associated hardware. The overall length of the bar, as specified in the documentation, is 31-9/16 inches.
Tools Required for Installation
Successful installation of a Moen shower slide bar requires several tools. Recommended tools include an adjustable wrench, Phillips screwdriver, flathead screwdriver, drill, drill bits, tape measure, level, and pencil. The documentation specifies the need for a 5/16" pilot hole drill bit and a 5/8 inch drill bit for creating guide holes. A stud finder is also recommended to identify wall studs for secure mounting.
Preparing for Installation
Prior to commencing the installation, it is necessary to assemble the bar. This involves sliding the handle holder bracket over the open end of the bar. The half-circle piece is then inserted into the open end, and finally, the open end of the bar is inserted into the opening in the other mounting bracket. Accurate measurement of the distance between the mounting holes on the slide bar is crucial. It is advised to measure this distance twice to minimize errors.
Locating and Marking Mounting Points
The next step involves determining the desired location for the slide bar on the shower wall. A stud finder should be used to ascertain if a wall stud is located near the intended mounting position. Using a tape measure and pencil, two holes should be marked on the shower wall, maintaining the same distance apart as measured on the slide bar. Precise marking is essential for proper alignment during installation.
Drilling Pilot and Guide Holes
Once the mounting points are marked, drilling is required. A 5/16" pilot hole should be drilled at each marked location to determine if a stud is present. If a stud is not present, 5/8 inch guide holes should be drilled where the marks were made. The documentation emphasizes the importance of aligning the holes in the slide bar with the drilled holes in the wall.
Securing the Slide Bar to the Wall
With the holes drilled, the mounting screws can be inserted. The screws are passed through the holes in the shower bar and into the pilot or guide holes in the wall. The screws should be driven in until the heads are flush with the slide bar, ensuring a secure attachment. If mounting to a hollow wall without a stud, winged hollow wall anchors are recommended. These anchors are inserted into the guide holes and tightened until their heads are flush with the bar.
Utilizing Wall Anchors
The documentation specifically details the use of plastic screw anchors when mounting to a finished wall. These anchors are inserted into the drilled holes and gently tapped with a hammer until they are flush with the wall surface. The anchors provide a secure base for the mounting screws, particularly when a stud is not available.
Important Safety Warning
The documentation includes a warning regarding the flow control o-ring located within the flow restrictor of the shower wand. Removal of this o-ring could result in the shower wand separating from the hose assembly during use, potentially creating a safety hazard. Therefore, it is strongly advised to leave the flow control o-ring intact.
Limited Warranty Information
Moen provides a one-year limited warranty on the handshower slidebar assembly. The warranty information is included in the installation instructions and covers defects in materials and workmanship. The address for warranty claims is provided as 25300 Al Moen Drive, North Olmsted, OH 44070-8022.
Conclusion
The installation of a Moen shower slide bar involves a series of precise steps, from assembling the bar and locating mounting points to drilling holes and securing the assembly to the wall. Utilizing the correct tools and following the provided instructions are crucial for a successful and safe installation. The documentation emphasizes the importance of using wall anchors when studs are not available and warns against removing the flow control o-ring. Adhering to these guidelines will ensure a properly installed and functional shower slide bar.