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Project

Carefully lift the tank and position it back onto the bowl, meticulously guiding the new bolts through their corresponding holes in the bowl ledge. Once seated, press down gently on the tank to help compress the new gasket. Working from underneath, place the new metal washers and nuts onto the bolts. Hand-tighten the nuts first. Then, using your wrench, tighten the nuts incrementally, alternating between them to ensure even pressure. Tighten until the tank is stable and does not wobble, but do not crank them down with excessive force.

You're viewing a step from: How to Fix a Leaking Toilet Tank-to-Bowl Gasket

Beginner

30 minutes

2/4 Inventory

This guide provides step-by-step instructions to replace a leaking toilet tank-to-bowl gasket. The process involves shutting off the water supply, draining and removing the tank, replacing the old gasket and hardware, and then reinstalling the tank and testing for leaks. This is a common plumbing repair for two-piece toilets.

Based on content fromFluidmaster Toilet Repair Videos· 12K subscribers

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does replacing a toilet tank-to-bowl gasket typically take for a beginner, and what's the estimated cost?

For a beginner, this project generally takes 1 to 2 hours from start to finish, including draining and refilling the tank. The cost is primarily the price of a new tank-to-bowl gasket and bolt kit, such as the Fluidmaster Universal 2 in. Tank-to-Bowl Toilet Gasket System (2602G-008-T5), which is usually under $20. It's considered a beginner-level DIY plumbing repair.

Are all the listed tools absolutely necessary, or can I use substitutes for some?

An adjustable wrench and a 6-in-1 screwdriver are essential for disconnecting and tightening hardware. While a socket set, like the Husky 1/4 in. Drive Deep SAE Socket Set, can make removing tank bolts easier, an adjustable wrench can often suffice. A heavy-duty plastic bucket and plenty of absorbent towels (e.g., WYPALL L40 or HDX Select-A-Size Paper Towel Roll) are crucial for managing water and cleanup.

What safety precautions should I take, and what's the best way to prepare my bathroom before starting this project?

Always shut off the water supply to the toilet at the wall valve before starting and flush the toilet multiple times to drain the tank and bowl as much as possible. Place a heavy-duty bucket, like the Unger 6 Gal. Heavy-Duty Plastic Bucket, and plenty of absorbent rags or towels around the toilet to catch any residual water. Be careful when lifting the tank, as it can be heavy and awkward even when empty.

I replaced the gasket, but my toilet is still leaking. What could be the problem?

If your toilet still leaks after replacing the gasket, first check that the tank-to-bowl bolts are tightened securely, but do not overtighten, as this can crack the tank. Ensure the new gasket is properly seated and not pinched or off-center. Also, inspect the water supply line connection for leaks, and check the tank and bowl for any hairline cracks that may have gone unnoticed.