Kitchen sink problem

[Selma]

Hi! HELP! My husband and I are trying to replace the basket in our kitchen sink and the lock nut broke off. Now when we try to turn the basket, the whole thing turns. Do we need to use a hack saw to remove the basket now or is there a way to get the basket out without doing that?

[HayZee518]

if the locknut broke off then the basket should lift right out

[Selma]

It won't come out, when we turn the bottom the top also turns but still won't budge.?

[jnaas2]

The nut that broke off is it about a 1 1/2 inches across or about 4 inches across

[Selma]

It's the one on the top, about 4 inches.

[HayZee518]

which part is stuck?

[Selma]

It must be the gasket attached to the basket. The drain is 20 years old, does that make a difference?

[HayZee518]

Plumber's putty is normally used to seal the basket into the sink's bowl depression. The rubber gasket followed by a metal ring and the locknut is next. If the locknut broke, then all that's left is the metal ring [if there is one] and the rubber gasket -plus- any plumber's putty that oozed out when the locknut was tightened. The putty has probably hardened after 20 yrs. Just chisel it off and the basket should lift out - no turning required.

[Selma]

He bought a bolt cutter and cut it off. Thanks to all who helped!