Cannot stop leaks of Bottom Inlet Valve

[john west]

Just brought a toilet cistern Fluidmaster PRO45B bottom inlet valve.

It has to fit in an ancient Tyford ceramic tank on the WC which has quite a large hole for the inlet valve to sit into and also a complication is that the ceramic washer face is also at a bit of an angle.

Consequently tightening up really a lot on the back nut, it still wobbles and leaks. I read many times don't overtighten i.e. finger tight as much as you can, then a quarter turn with adjustable pliers. But i have been going at it way way more than that, with it still leaking.

As an amateur i can only think that a very big, very soft; sealing washer to go on the inside of the ceramic tank is needed? Would this be the way to go?

If so, is it possible to get such a sealing washer; or if i was to try to cut one out, what kind of rubbery spongy material could i buy to cut up? Thanks for help.

[alan_m]

Toolstation or Screwfix will likely have something to fit/bodge

Search screwfix for tap washers to see their range of rubber/fibre washers for this type of application.

[Dave W]

I used some sponge from a mouse-mat to make a sealing washer for my worn plastic toilet cistern outlet.

[GB]

I read the destructions, and it says not to use putty. Otherwise, I'd suggest a bit of plumbers mait.

I don't see how the washer can be at an angle?

[john west]

Imagine a slice of bread that you dont cut straight, so its thick on one side and thin on the other, hence the angle.

Is there a putty or plumbers mate type stuff people would recommend. The type put in about fifteen years ago on this cistern has gone rather crumbly, so am looking to buy a durable one if possible.

[Dave Plowman (News)]

I'd guess a silicone sealant rather better these days. Fernox LS-X is made for this sort of thing.

Clean everything first so it can get a good grip.

[alan_m]

Give it plenty of time to cure (not just the surface) before testing it with water.

The problem may be that if you haven't got a good mechanical fit and it still wobbles using a sealant will not act as a glue to make it stable. Slight movement may make it leak again. Multiple "soft" washers of foam/fibre/rubber may work better.

[Dave Plowman (News)]

Yes. I'd make sure it is a good fit in the hole. Use a sleeve if needed to stop it moving side to side.