Rusted Tank Bolts

[YourAverageJoe]

Hi all. We have 3 older (20+years) Totos, and in two of them the tank bolts have rusted tremendously (never thought to replace them). One so much so that it is now leaking. I've tried a few things but can't get them off and there doesn't seem to be enough space between the tank and base to get a hacksaw in there. One plumber said they don't even try to fix that as the tank can crack and I should just get a new toilet. The wax seal hasn't been changed either. Any ideas or should this be an "opportunity" to get a new toilet. My old Totos are 1.6 GPF flappers, can't get 1.6 anymore in CA.

Been kicking the tires on Toto Ultramax II or Eco Ultramax or Kohler Santa Rosa. Does anyone know the difference between the Ultramax II and Eco Ultramax - can't seem to figure that out? Thanks!

 

[Terry]

The MS604 Ultramax II series comes with the good bowl finish and the rinse that swirls. Also the 16-1/8" high bowl.
The MS854 series has the straight down the bowl rinse.
Trapways are similar, performance is similar.

If someone wants to remove old tank bolts, you can put on eye protection and drill out the nuts from below. I've never seen steel bolts come with TOTO though. They have always been brass.

 

[Sponsor]

 

[YourAverageJoe]

Thanks for the info. The shorter bowl rules the MS854 out for us. Maybe someone replaced the bolts before I bought the house (20 y.a.) with the toilets installed (Toto Atlanta series). Potentially almost 30 years old if they are the originals. Off to do more research!

 

[Terry]

I've sold a few thousand of the TOTO products. They have all worked well for me and my customers.
Well, maybe not the 746, but the others have worked well.
They also have a new Drake 2021, the CST776 and CST775, been selling those lately.

 

[John Gayewski]

A nut splitter won't work?