How to Replace Bolts on a Toilet

A set of bolts secures your toilet tank to the bowl. If the toilet is old the bolts can become rusty, or the rubber washer between the bolt and the toilet might become corroded, either of which can cause a water leak from the tank. If this happens you can easily replace the bolts provided you have the correct tools and a little time.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Flathead screwdriver
• Socket wrench
• 2 large towels

1. Turn off the water supply valve located to the side of the toilet and near the floor. Flush the toilet to empty out most of the water. Use your towel to sop up any water still in the tank.

2. Hold a flathead screwdriver in one of the bolt heads while you reach underneath with your wrench and loosen the nut. Alternate the loosening of each bolt to keep the tank level as you work. Remove the nuts, bolts and washers.

3. Take the tank off the bowl and set it upside down on a towel on the floor while you take the fasteners to the hardware store. You want to be sure you replace the bolts with the same size.

4. Replace the tank and position it so the holes at the bottom of the tank line up with the holes at the top of the bowl.

5. Set the new washers on the tank bolts and put the bolts back through the holes from inside the tank. Put a washer on each bolt underneath the bowl and fasten the nuts. Tighten them, alternating as you tighten to keep the tank even.

6. Check to be sure there are no leaks once you turn the water supply valve back on and allow the toilet tank to fill up.

Tips & Warnings

• Use penetrating oil on the nuts and bolts if they won't come loose.
• Don't tighten the new bolts too tight or you could crack the tank or the bowl.