Clogged toilet...

Normally it is not a difficult thing to unclog a toilet. You simply use a toilet plunger or an auger. However, I ran into a clog which had me puzzled. I used the above mentioned methods with no results. I tried liquid plumber, rid x, bleach and soap, with no success. I figured the clog must be in the pipe so I remove the toilet and find that the pipe is clean. I took the toilet outside and filled it with water and it just sat there. I turned it upside down and tried to use a rod from the bottom outlet on the toilet, it however, got just so far and would not go any further. I discovered the clog was not waste, as I thought, it was a plastic cover of some sort. I tried to get it out but could not, so I just went an bought a new toilet at Hobo for $50 and problem solved. I remove all parts from the old tank and saved them just in case I or someone else needs a toilet repair.

So, there you have it a clog which could not easily be removed. As for removing the old toilet. It is not difficult if the retaining screws aren't rusted. Assuming they aren't, first turn the water supply off. Remove bolts from bottom of tank and lift off tank from toilet base. Now remove bolts from the bottom of toilet base. If there is caulk between toilet and floor, use a box cutter and break the seal. Lift off toilet base and clean area, remove all old wax and old screws.

To install your new toilet first place the main toilet base upside down and place wax ring on bottom of toilet with flange facing you. Squeeze some of the wax onto the bottom of toilet so ring won't fall off when you turn toilet around. Go to the pipe on the floor and place the two new bolts into cast iron flange. if you have small plastic washers, use these to hold bolts in place. If you don't have these washers, use a little putty or wax to keep them upright. Carry toilet and place it carefully onto the bolts. Sit on toilet to press wax into place. Make sure toilet is straight and tighten it down. Don't over-tighten since you could crack the porcelain. Now place rubber bushing on bottom of tank and place it on base. Use the two long screws with rubber washers to bolt toilet tank to base. Tighten this slowly and evenly. Now install water supply and turn water on. Look for leaks and adjust water level if need be. Some sweating might occur, this is normal and not to be viewed as a leak.

If the old toilet has badly rusted bolts. I just reccommend using a chisel and hammer to break the porcelain of the base at the hold-down bolts and removing the toilet as one piece. Do this slowly so you don't damage the floor. Use goggles since the porcelain can fly and hit you in and eye.

It is a dirty jog, but you will save yourself $$$$.