Gettin' it together

 

    Installing the flapper is a piece of cake. I used to love hearing that from my former boss just before headin' out to a new project. "Oh, this job's gonna be a piece of cake." Those were always the most demanding of jobs. But this is a fairly simple task, just remember to keep things clean as you go and be sure to clean up real good when you're done. A nice, clean job adds to the presentation and pride that a true "Plumber" strives for with each accomplishment.

 

    Your new flapper will no doubt come with a new chain as well. Make sure that you're wearin' your safety glasses and a fresh pair of vinyl gloves. With the toilet seat and cover down, sit on the toilet bowl while facing the tank. If the chain is not already attached to the flapper you should do that now. Make this connection with the end that resembles a key-ring. Next you should attach the flapper to the ears at the base of the fill tube and let the flapper pivot down till it settles into it's resting place.

 

    The opposite end of the chain can now be attached to the lever handle at the appropriate adjusted length. Some sort of hook or another key-ring looking connector should have come included with your new flapper and chain. Remove that second connector and attach it to a hole in the flush handle most directly over the flapper.

 Gettin' Done

 

    Pull the chain toward the hook without lifting the flapper. Recognize and remember which link in the chain is nearest to lowest point of the hook. Now you can attach that link to the hook... there should be minimal slack in the chain with the flapper still resting in it's place.

 

    Are you ready to turn the water on now? Reach down to the fixture stop... turn the handle counter clockwise and let the tank fill up. If the water doesn't rise in the tank then you'll need to ensure that the chain is not caught between the flapper and it's resting place or adjust the chain to be a bit longer. Turn the water off, make your correction or adjustment and turn the water back on again. A common result from several uses of a fixture stop (especially a full-turn stop) is a minor drip behind the fixture stop handle. This is easily resolved by tightening (to the right) the nut located directly behind the handle with your adjustable wrench.

 

    After the tank has filled you should flush the toilet... check for a proper flush and for any leaks. When the tank fills again, listen for the trickling noise that you heard at the start of this all. No noise?

 

    Congratulations! You just saved approximately  $125.00!

 

    Now put the tank lid back on... be sure to clean up any mess and put away your tools!

 

    Feel free to contact me with any questions or difficulties regarding this article or any other plumbing issues.

 

 

GO TO:      Page 1      Page 2      Ask Ole    Sluggo