NuWhirl DC500-21 White Cable Drain Assembly | 45-Inch
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The NuWhirl DC500-21 uses a 45-inch cable. The -21 identifies the white trim finish; it does not mean the cable is 21 inches long. Confirm the cable length, mounting holes, plumbing connection, and drain configuration before ordering.
NuWhirl DC500-21 White Walk-In Tub Cable Drain Assembly
The NuWhirl DC500-21 Cable Drain Assembly is a complete cable-operated drain and safety-overflow system with white trim. It is commonly used in select Safety Tubs, older Safe Step walk-in tubs, and other walk-in bathtubs originally equipped with a matching NuWhirl DC500 drain system.
Turning the accessible rotary control opens or closes the bathtub drain through the 45-inch mechanical cable. This replacement restores dependable operation when the original cable binds, breaks, or no longer moves the drain stopper correctly.
DC500-21 Key Specifications
| Manufacturer | NuWhirl Systems |
|---|---|
| Part Number | DC500-21 |
| Cable Length | 45 inches |
| Drain Connection | 1-1/2-inch plumbing connection |
| Drain Mounting Hole | 2 inches |
| Overflow Mounting Hole | 2-1/2 inches |
| Trim Finish | White — finish code 21 |
| Material | Plated copper |
| Operation | Mechanical cable-operated drain |
| Application | Walk-in tub drain and safety overflow |
| Overall Fit | Designed for standard walk-in tub installation spaces |
Compatible Walk-In Tub Applications
The DC500-21 is commonly found in select:
- Safety Tubs walk-in bathtubs
- Older Safe Step walk-in tubs, including some pre-2018 configurations
- American Standard walk-in tubs equipped with a matching NuWhirl drain
- Other walk-in bathtubs originally using a DC500-style 45-inch cable drain
Brand name alone does not confirm compatibility. Walk-in tub manufacturers used different drain assemblies across models and production years. Match the following details to your original drain:
- DC500 cable-drain configuration
- 45-inch cable length
- 1-1/2-inch plumbing connection
- 2-inch drain mounting hole
- 2-1/2-inch overflow mounting hole
- White trim and matching rotary control
DC500-21 White vs. DC500-60 Chrome
| Part Number | Trim Finish | Cable Length |
|---|---|---|
| DC500-21 | White | 45 inches |
| DC500-60 | Chrome | 45 inches |
Select the model that matches your existing trim finish and installation. If you need the chrome version, see the NuWhirl DC500-60 chrome cable drain assembly.
Common Reasons for Replacement
- Drain control is difficult to turn
- Cable sticks, binds, or has broken internally
- Drain stopper will not remain open or closed
- Control turns without moving the stopper
- Drain or overflow components are leaking
- White trim or plated components are damaged or corroded
What Is Included?
This listing includes the complete DC500-21 cable drain and overflow assembly shown in the product photos. PVC drain pipe, plumbing sealant, and other installation materials are not included unless expressly shown or stated.
Installation and Measurement Notes
- Measure the existing cable and confirm a 45-inch replacement is required.
- Measure the tub openings—not only the visible trim pieces.
- Confirm a 2-inch drain opening and 2-1/2-inch overflow opening.
- Verify the 1-1/2-inch plumbing connection and available routing space.
- Route the cable smoothly without sharp bends or kinks.
- Do not overtighten the drain or overflow hardware.
- Use appropriate plumbing sealant and leak-test every connection after installation.
- Professional installation is recommended when access behind or beneath the tub is limited.
Send Whirly Bros clear photos of the drain control, overflow plate, drain shoe, cable, plumbing connections, and any visible part numbers. Our walk-in tub parts specialists can help compare your existing assembly before you order.
Contact Whirly Bros for part identification
Frequently Asked Questions
Does DC500-21 have a 21-inch cable?
No. The DC500-21 uses a 45-inch cable. The -21 suffix identifies the white trim finish, not the cable length.
What is the difference between DC500-21 and DC500-60?
The primary difference is the trim finish. The DC500-21 has white trim, while the DC500-60 has chrome trim. Both use the DC500 configuration and a 45-inch cable.
What size plumbing connection does it use?
The DC500-21 connects to standard 1-1/2-inch drain plumbing.
What mounting-hole sizes are required?
The assembly is designed for a 2-inch drain mounting hole and a 2-1/2-inch overflow mounting hole.
Will this fit every Safe Step or Safety Tubs walk-in tub?
No. Different drain systems were used depending on the tub model and production date. Confirm the cable length, mounting holes, plumbing connection, finish, and physical configuration before ordering.
Related Walk-In Tub Parts
Walk-In Tub Drain and Overflow Kits
American Standard Walk-In Tub Parts
Safe Step Walk-In Tub Replacement Parts
American Standard, Safety Tubs, and Safe Step are trademarks of their respective owners and are referenced only to identify possible product applications. Whirly Bros is an independent replacement-parts retailer and is not affiliated with or endorsed by those brands.
