An obstruction in the water closet trap or leakage around the bottom
of the water-closet bowl may require removal of the bowl. Follow this
procedure:
Shut off the water.
Empty the tank and bowl by siphoning or sponging out the water.
Disconnect the water pipes to the tank (see fig. 7).
Disconnect the tank from the bowl if the water closet is a two-piece
unit. Set the tank where it cannot be damaged. Handle tank and bowl
carefully; they are made of vitreous china or porcelain and are
easily chipped or broken.
Remove the seat and cover from the bowl.
Carefully pry loose the bolt covers and remove the bolts holding the
bowl to the floor flange (fig. 8). Jar the bowl enough to break the
seal at the bottom. Set the bowl upside down on something that will
not chip or break it.
Remove the obstruction from the discharge opening.
Place a new wax seal around the bowl horn and press it into
place. A wax seal (or gasket) may be obtained from hardware or
plumbing-supply stores.
Set the bowl in place and press it down firmly. Install the bolts
that hold it to the floor flange. Draw the bolts up snugly, but not
too tight because the bowl may break. The bowl must be level. Keep
a carpenter's level on it while drawing up the bolts. If the house
has settled, leaving the floor sloping, it may be necessary to use
shims to make the bowl set level. Replace the bolt covers.
Install the tank and connect the water pipes to it. It is advisable
to replace all gaskets, after first cleaning the surfaces
thoroughly.
Test for leaks by flushing a few times.
Install the seat and cover.
[Illustration: _Figure 8._--Connection of water closet to floor and
soil pipe.]