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A great tip before you start to replace the flush mechanism of your toilet is to take a photo of the inside of the tank. This way you'll know the exact parts needed before heading to the store.
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Note: Illustration A, Illustration B, Illustration C available using  Preparing the Tank - Shut off the water supply and flush the toilet. Remove the tank cover and place a container on the floor beneath the tank to catch water runoff. Wearing rubber gloves, sponge up any water remaining in the tank.
- With an adjustable wrench (illustration A, click above to view) or adjustable pliers, unscrew the nut and disconnect the supply line where it enters the tank.
Removing the Flush Mechanism Parts:
Float cup
Float ball (Note: Brass parts will last longer than plastic.)
Center assembly (comes with or without float ball)
Other materials:
Rubber gloves
Sponge
Bucket
A variety of adjustable pliers (including locking pliers) and wrenches
Silicone caulk or plumber's putty
Scrubbing sponge or steel wool
- Attach locking pliers to the nut at the base of the ball cock (illustration B, click above to view) and loosen the lock nut under the ball cock with an adjustable wrench or adjustable pliers. Unscrew the nut, and lift the ball cock up from the tank.
- Use a bristle brush or a nylon scrubbing pad to clean the opening in the tank where the ball cock was.
Installing New Parts - Position the assembly in the tank (illustration C, click above to view), with the cone-shaped washer of the new ball cock centered over the hole, and tighten the lock nut snugly; do not overtighten or it may crack.
- Place the refill tube into the overflow pipe, reconnect the supply tube, and slowly turn on the water. Tighten the lock nut slightly if the new hardware leaks.
- Adjust the water level in the tank as necessary.
Estimated Cost Flush mechanism = $10.58
Plumber's putty (4 oz.) = $1.15
Total = $11.73
Note: To order the new HGTV's Complete Fix-It book, see Resources, below. Illustrations (Copyright) Time-Life Books 2000.
RESOURCES :
HGTV's Complete Fix-It
Author: HGTV
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