Re-fitting supply pipe to toilet cistern

[harry]

Hi I've posted here before under another ID - then I was trying to sort out problems with a Portsmouth type float valve. On the basis of responses from that I decided to replace this old FV with a bottom entry Torbeck FV. Done all that including moving the siphon to left hand side of the cistern. Go to connect the original metal fitting (built in isolating valve) to the bottom of the Torbeck plastic pipe and leaking/gushing all over the place! Also the isolating bit doesn't seem to be working as well. Have replaced the old fibre washer with new nylon - no difference. Water seems to be coming from *underneath* the bit that screws onto the plastic pipe of the Torbeck. Been trying to sort this for over a fortnight now and may even be forced to call a plumber if I can find one - has anyone any ideas about what's now causing this massive leak?

[Mark]

There's two different sizes of 1/2 tap connector like

quit possible that the inner copper flange on yours is not fitting correctly *inside* the plastic flange on your Torbeck valve,so the washer is having no effect B&Q do the smaller size fitting

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[HCB]

Thanks for that. I thought things were standard in plumbing? I've now bought so many washers etc that it will almost certainly keep me going for the rest of my natural. I don't really want to replace the isolating valve if I can help it only because if what you say is correct in my case, then I've got a new valve that doesn't fit (maybe), but I will get to B&Q and take advantage of my Diamond club membership... Thanks again.

[zikkimalambo]

If you were to get hold of a time served plumber, he would probably take one look at your fibre washer. Spit, throw it away and then reach for his tub of Vaseline and some soft string.

Cut a short length of soft string (enough to make your own washer). coat liberally with Vaseline, and then wind round the bottom of the pipe in a clockwise direction looking from below. Offer up the tap connector and tighten - not too much!

turn on water. swear and curse. Repeat process until you get it right. Never use fibre washers again.

HTH

Zikki

That's Mr Zikki!

[Huge]

Which is (kind of) why I have a tin in my garage marked "waxed string". Do exactly as described, except the string has been dipped in melted candlewax.