How to Replace a Toilet Wax Ring

Replace a Toilet Wax Ring This plate holds the toilet bowl in place with, in this case, two bolts. I'm pointing to one of two slots built into the plate that the bolt heads slide into.

Toilet Wax Ring I purchased a toilet wax ring package that includes two breakaway bolts and all the hardware necessary to install the toilet properly. Here I'm holding a reinforced toilet wax ring. Remember to remove the plastic packaging before setting the toilet wax ring in place.

Breakaway bolts for Toilet Wax Ring This is one of the breakaway bolts. What makes these nice is that instead of using a hacksaw to cut the bolt after installation, you can take a pair of pliers, grip the end, rock it back and forth a few times and it will break off evenly. Using a hacksaw in a tight place next to a ceramic toilet can be risky for someone who doesn't do this everyday.

Installing bolts for Toilet Wax Ring Slide the bolts in with the head down into the large end of the slot provided. Adjust the two bolts so that they are positioned (like a clock) at 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock from the wall behind the toilet. Some manufacturers will provide a plastic washer to hold the bolt upright while you lower the toilet in place. If for some reason you don't get the plastic washers with your hardware kit, you can use some of the wax to hold them temporarily while you set the toilet bowl.

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