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Replace Toilet Tank to Bowl Gasket

easyHome Repair45-60 minutes10 steps

Safety Warnings

  • Shut off water supply before beginning to prevent flooding.
  • Use caution when lifting the toilet tank as porcelain is heavy and fragile.

Tools Needed

Wrench — 1/2-inch
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Sponge — Large absorbent
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Materials

Tank-to-Bowl Gasket — Standard size rubber(1)
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Tank Bolts — Brass or Stainless Steel(1 set)
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Steps

1
Shut off the water supply valve leading to the toilet.
Tip: Ensure the valve is fully closed to prevent leaks during disassembly.
2
Empty the tank and bowl by siphoning or sponging out the remaining water.
Tip: Get the tank as dry as possible to avoid water spilling on the floor when the tank is removed.
3
Disconnect the water pipes connected to the tank.
Tip: Use a wrench to loosen the supply line nut.
4
Unscrew the tank bolts and lift the tank away from the toilet bowl.
Tip: Set the tank down carefully on a soft surface to avoid cracking the porcelain.
5
Remove the old, worn gasket from the rim of the bowl or the bottom of the tank.
Tip: Clean any debris or mineral buildup from the porcelain surfaces for a better seal.
6
Install the new tank-to-bowl gasket onto the bottom of the tank or the rim of the bowl.
Tip: Ensure the gasket is centered and seated firmly.
7
Lower the tank back onto the bowl, aligning the bolt holes.
Tip: Avoid rocking the tank to prevent damaging the new gasket.
8
Reinstall the tank bolts and tighten them evenly.
Tip: Tighten in a crisscross pattern to ensure the gasket is compressed evenly.
9
Reconnect the water supply pipes to the tank.
Tip: Do not overtighten the nuts, as this can crush the washers.
10
Test for leaks by flushing the toilet several times.
Tip: Run your hand or a dry paper towel around the base of the tank to check for moisture.

Pro Tips

  • Always replace tank bolts at the same time as the gasket to prevent future leaks from corroded hardware.
  • If the tank is not sealing, ensure no old rubber fragments are trapped between the new gasket and the porcelain.

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Sources

Synthesized from 6 verified sources:

USDA Farmers' Bulletin (Gutenberg)View →
Gutenberg: Economical Farmhouse PlansView →
Gutenberg: Electrical GuideView →
Gutenberg: Practical Hints to BuildersView →
Gutenberg: Electricity for the 4-H ScientistView →
Gutenberg: Dwelling ConstructionView →