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The flush valve, located in the middle of the toilet, includes the overflow tube and the hole where water enters the bowl when the toilet is flushed – the hole that's covered by the rubber tank ball or flapper. This assembly includes a large rubber washer that, over time, can become worn or stiff, causing leaks. Also, the hole in the assembly itself can become corroded, preventing a good seal and allowing water to drip into the bowl. If any of these conditions exist in your toilet, it's time to replace the flush valve assembly.

WHAT YOU'LL NEED

SKILL SCALE
Easy

TIME REQUIRED
Replacing the flush valve means removing the toilet tank. Plan an hour and a half.

TOOLS
Screwdrivers
Adjustable wrenches
Spud wrench
Slip joint pliers

MATERIALS
Replacement parts

Turn off the water at the shutoff valve, then disconnect the ballcock and remove the toilet tank. Gently set the tank upside down and remove the old flush valve by unscrewing the spud nut with a spud wrench or a pair of slip joint pliers.

Slide the cone washer onto the tailpiece of the new flush valve. The beveled side of the cone washer should point toward the end of the tailpiece. Insert the flush valve into the tank opening so that the overflow pipe faces the ballcock.

Screw the spud nut onto the tailpiece of the flush valve, and tighten with a spud wrench or a pair of slip joint pliers. Place the soft spud washer over the tailpiece, and reinstall the toilet tank. Turn on the water and check for leaks.

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