Garden tub faucet pickle

[nativetxn]

Hi, I have a whirlpool tub installed in cultured marble surround with no access panel. I am going to update the faucets in my bathroom (sinks, tub, shower) and was hoping to take the easy way out and just use existing plumbing but update trim only for the tub and shower. Also, the tub has a dripping faucet, so I'm sure I'll need to replace a washer in the handle. Now, when I go to take the faucet off of the tub, the entire thing slides back and forth. When I removed the faucet, the nipple is not completely secure to the deck. It's not loose, but it certainly moves if you push on it. Does this mean that I need to open up one of the sides of the tub box and simply tighten the nipple, or are we talking replacing plumbing under the tub? I can manage simple DIY stuff, but wasn't sure if I should just call a plumber.

Thx for the advice!

 

[hj]

How about a picture, but if the "pipe" is loose, you may have to access the underside, and snug up a locknut.

 

[Sponsor]

 

[nativetxn]

Here you go… PS, this is all Delta trim/valving

 

[hj]

It appears that the nut to tighten it is on the bottom, so will have to access it somehow.

 

[Terry]

The old Delta Roman tub spouts tightened from below.
The new stuff allows the spout to be removed and replaced from above.

 

[hj]

but the shank still has to be tightened to the deck from below.

 

[Terry]

but the shank still has to be tightened to the deck from below.

Yep!