Flange bolts broke off in cast iron flange

sbecerra · #1 Mar 30, 2008, 11:22 AM

After laying tile in a bathroom, we tried to remove two flange bolts from a cast iron flange, but the both broke off flush with the flange. They were too short to begin with, but now we can't even get them out. It's as if they're rusted in. What can we do?

sbecerra · Mar 30, 2008, 11:45 AM

I'm a little confused by both responses. The old cast iron flange sits lower than the surface of the new tile floor. We have not yet put on the plastic flange extention. If I "tap them down" (into the flange/subfloor?) I don't see how I would be able to remove them.

The bolts were not johnny bolts, and they are stuck in there with no movement. If I "drive them down" below the floor (and I'm assuming further into the flange bolt holes), won't that strip the threads making it impossible to install a new bolt?

Forgive me - I'm very VERY inexperienced with this, and having a hard time seeing the logic in the response. THANK YOU for being able to respond so quickly!

sbecerra · Mar 31, 2008, 08:55 PM

We were talking about the same thing, as I was using bolts like pic #1. Maybe I was using the word "flange" incorrectly, as there was no way to slide a johnny bolt (pic 2) in/out like I've seen on the plastic fittings. These bolts were the attachment to the cast iron fitting/pipe that came up to the floor. We've fixed it now, although it may not have been the best solution. We just drilled four new holes into the cast iron to attach the new plastic fitting to it, then used johnny bolts slid in the sides to attach the toilet later. We were a bit skiddish about drilling holes into that cast iron, but it seemed to work OK.

PS - later I learned what "tap" means (e.g., self-tapping screws), so I'm sorry if I caused any confusion previously.

Thanks to everyone who helped us figure this one out! We were thinking the worst case scenario was at hand.

massplumber2008 · Apr 1, 2008, 02:25 AM

Thanks for update sbecerra:

Sounds like you guys did just fine. I am still a little unclear as to why flange did not have SLOTS to slide new johhny bolts into...? Was the old flange broken by chance??

Anyway, again, thanks for the update. Always appreciate that!! Mark

speedball1 · Apr 1, 2008, 03:56 AM

You did all that was necessary. And that was to secure the toilet to the floor. I hope you installed a wax seal with a funnel. That would give you added protection against leaks and bad smells. Good luck, Tom



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