I had to replace the overflow tube on a toilet and was able to replace it with a similar one without problem. I went to secure the tank to the toilet and found that it was not sitting on the top of toilet base. I didn't think that this was a problem at first because it wasn't touching before I replaced it. The gasket that I removed was different from the one that I replaced it with and that may be the problem. The old gasket was a type that almost compressed to fit and seal. The new one is more of a rubbery kind. I am afraid to tighten the tank down all the way for fear of cracking it and I would really have to crank on the bolts to get it to sit on the base. Here are my thoughts on options:
1. The new gasket fits around the threaded part of the overflow tube and not around the nut. It doesn't look to me that it should go around the nut because then I don't think that it will really seal.
2. I could look for a different type of gasket.
Or
3. I could put a couple of 1/4" or 1/2" wooden shims between the tank and the toilet base to secure it.
I am leaning toward 3. What are your thoughts
Thanks
Matt

Hi Matt...

I can't be sure of corse, but it sounds to me like you replaced the FLUSH VALVE ASSEMBLY (overflow tube assembly) and you used the flush valve washer (1st image) supplied with the new flush valve...

Guess what? You aren't supposed to use that washer on the outside... goes on the inside... ;)

In fact, the universal flush valve assemblies DO NOT come with the tank to bowl washer (last image) that goes over the flush valve nut... unless you purchase a COMPLETE PARTS REPAIR KIT and then that would come with the all parts needed. The tank to bowl washer must be purchased separately!

Let me know if this all sounds correct... O.K.? If so, you will need to reinstall the flush valve with the washer on the inside and then go purchase that tank to bowl washer and you ahould be all set. When complete the tank should have a maximum of 1/4" play when rocked back and forth... can go a bit tighter, too.

MARK

I understand. You are correct, I did replace the whole flush valve assembly but I did use the rubber washer on the inside and purchased the washer that you show in the picture. I actually bought two (one was thicker that the other). I installed both and used the thinner one but the tank is still not touching the bowl by maybe 1/2" to 5/8". I am afraid to tighten it too much for fear of cracking the lower toilet bowl where the nuts screw onto the tank bolts. Should I tighten more than hand tight? If so any guidance would be great.
Thanks for the help,
Matt

Matt:

You said, " 1. The new gasket fits around the threaded part of the overflow tube and not around the nut. It doesn't look to me that it should go around the nut because then I don't think that it will really seal."...

I'm pretty sure that this is the issue here. That washer MUST fit up and over the nut. Although it looks odd, it's exactly how it is supposed to be installed.

Install the tank to bowl washer so it sets up over the nut and then install the tank and tighten the nuts hand tight. Then, lean on the left of the tank with your body weight and tighten the left nut some. Then lean on the right side of the tank a bit and tighten the nut there.

Now, watching the bolt head inside the tank and using a socket wrench and screwdriver if needed, sequentially pull the tank nuts tight to a point that the toilet bolt heads indent the black neoprene washers just slightly. The tank should have about 1/4" play between the toilet tank and the toilet bowl when finished.

As scary as it sounds, these tank/bowl setups are set up to take this stress. Take your time, tighten in 1/8" increments to each side at a time and watch the washers inside the tank. If still unsure then tighten to a place you feel safe and test for leaks... :)

Finally, you are trying to install the tank so it sits level from side to side and from front to back. Use a torpedo level if available, but don't follow the level as absolute as you could crack the tank if you lose sight of the washer/bolt indentation.

Let us know how you make out...

MARK

Awsome... That was the trick. The gasket just needed to be up around the nut and it all came together like butta baby.
Thanks for your time and help.
Matt