New Fluidmaster flush valve leaking

[paralucent]

The toilet was sometimes not refilling. At other times it was overflowing so I bought a new Fluidmaster flush valve, identical to the original one.

There were two problems. The supplied screw would not screw onto the shank. It would turn a few times then stop. However the screw from the old valve fitted okay so I just used that instead.

But the bigger problem is that the valve leaks, badly.

The washer seems to be to blame. As you can see it is not flat, which makes it nigh on impossible to make a watertight seal.

In the end I disconnected it and reconnected the old valve. The washer on the old valve is not in great shape but at least it doesn't leak (although the valve itself is dodgy).

I will try the more expensive brass shank valve in the hope that it has the correct washer but I find it baffling that the cheaper one was not supplied with the correct fixings.

 

[Burnerman]

The tapered washer is made so it can be inserted into the ceramic cistern.....the hole diameter of which can’t be guaranteed! Theoretically it takes up any discretion.
I guess you’ve been unlucky but a layer of sealant could have helped you out. It’s important that the washer isn’t distorted or overtightened.
John

 

[terryplumb]

I have lost count of how many of those valves I have fitted with that washer,without any issues. Is your inner cistern base not flat ?

 

[paralucent]

Flat as a pancake, terryplumb. I can only conclude that the hole is slightly too small for the inner part of the washer and that's why it won't seal properly.

 

[Burnerman]

Sometimes it’s necessary to juggle a bit with various poly washers - which is what you’ve discovered!

Anyone remember the Tecaz products from the 70’s? Nothing was flat or level.....including the pan which often was gently inclined to the left!
John

 

[HERTS P&D]

I blame the Nut, holding the spanner!



Andy

 

[terryplumb]

 

[paralucent]

Okay, so I just thought 'Sod it', raised the collar of the old valve, pulled the top part off and it replaced it with the new one.

There. Job done,. It took 5 minites instead of 2 hours. Sometimes you have to know when to stop.