I have a 4" pvc closet flange with 1-7/8" tail. I can twist turn it in about 7/8" and then it seizes up. I am afraid if I put glue on and smacked it in with a mallet that it wouldn't go in all the way and I would be stuck having to cut it out. Is there a code limit as to how long the tail has to be?

Also, when I look down inside the drain there is an 1/8"space between the this pipe and the seat of a coupling. Is this something that needs to be filled to prevent clogging? If so, what does one use for filler?

Assuming that we are talking about standard fittings here and that the flange is designed to fit a 4" PVC pipe (we are talking PVC aren't we) it will go all the way down. Unless there is some obvious obstruction. When dry, fittings will sometimes be a little difficult to get on. In a way the glue will act as a lubricant. If you are still not comfortable, sand the pipe to insure that it is clean, soap both parts with liquid soap and put them together.

If the second question is that there is a small gap between the end of the pipe and the stop ring of a coupling or other fitting, nothing to worry about.

Are you using a glue on flange or a Twist-n-Set or one with three screws that expand a collar?

Harold and ballengerb1,
The flange is an Oatey glue on. It has both PVC and ABS stamped on it. It definitely is a very tight fit. I think I'll try the sanding first and see if I can get it all the way in. Thanks. I'll keep you guys posted.

If you have PVC pipe why not just a PVC flange, If you have ABS, granted you may not be able to find an ABS flange. If you are mixing PVC and ABS you must use an all purpose glue. The all purpose glue will probably work but may not be approve. To be assured that the glue will work for both PVC and ABS put glue on both pieces, put them together and immediately take them apart. You should see a mixing of the two substances. That is some ABS on the PVC. If so, reglue and install.

If you have PVC pipe why not just a PVC flange, If you have ABS, granted you may not be able to find an ABS flange. If you are mixing PVC and ABS you must use an all purpose glue. The all purpose glue will probably work but may not be approve. To be assured that the glue will work for both PVC and ABS put glue on both pieces, put them together and immediately take them apart. You should see a mixing of the two substances. That is some ABS on the PVC. If so, reglue and install.

Harold,
This must be a universal flange by Oatey, because the markings I was telling you about are the ASTM standards to which the flange complies. Regardless, my pipes are PVC. I took your advice and sanded the tail enough to get the flange to seat on the floor. I applied the cement and everything is holding together well. Thanks for your help.

Hobbsie