Help needed with a washer

[GameForkStudio]

Hi all,

The flushing mechanism in a concealed cistern has failed so I bought a new flushing valve. I took the cistern out and fitted the new valve in it. To put the cistern back I had to insert the 1.5" pipe (still connected to the back of the toilet) into the cistern and tighten it to the cistern with a plastic nut that had a washer in it. While doing that, I dropped the washer into the cavity wall and I can't reach it. I need to buy a new washer but not sure what to search for.

It is the washer that goes around the 1.5" pipe where it connects to the cistern. What is the name of that washer please?

 

[Chuck]

It's a 'flush-valve washer'. The merchant who sold you the valve should know if they are available as replacements. Unless you are long on time and short on money it'll be easier just to buy another identical flush valve, use the washer and keep the mechanism in stock (in a dark place) ready for the next time the flush valve fails.

 

[GameForkStudio]

It's a 'flush-valve washer'. The merchant who sold you the valve should know if they are available as replacements.

Hi Chuck,
Thanks for your reply. I looked on Google for images of the flush valve washer, but I don't think it's the right one.
Here is an image of a similar connector where the washer needs to go.

https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61RRajk6D1L._SX425_.jpg

The rubber washer goes tight around the pipe and a nut similar to the one in the picture tightens it to the bottom of the cistern.
I bought the flush valve from screwfix so no chance of getting any tips from the sales staff there as I don't think they get any training.

 

[Chuck]

The rubber washer goes tight around the pipe and a nut similar to the one in the picture tightens it to the bottom of the cistern.

Then I think you want a 'flush-pipe sealing washer', which makes the seal between the flush-valve and the flush-pipe. If you have a standard size, 1.5" or 2" a plumbers' mechant should be able to help. If you can find something suitable locally, try:

Search Results - toiletspares.co.uk

WC Toilet Spares and Parts for Toilet, Cistern fittings and spare parts including spare toilet float valves and flush valves for toilets. B&Q toilets and part spares for toilet cisterns, Siamp, Derwent Macdee, Thomas Dudley, Wirquin, Torbeck

www.toiletspares.co.uk

 

[GameForkStudio]

Thanks Chuck. That's the one I need.

 

[GameForkStudio]

One more question please. After I inserted the washer and connected the pipe to the bottom of the cistern, I can still feel a tiny bit of water. I tried adjusting a couple of times but it still wouldn't seal.
I tried ptfe tape on the thread but that didn't help.
Would it be a good idea to apply plumber's putty inside the flushing valve, around the flushing pipe? Or is there a better solution?

 

[Chuck]

Would it be a good idea to apply plumber's putty inside the flushing valve, around the flushing pipe? Or is there a better solution?

Shouldn't really need anything like that but a small amount of soap as a lubricant will help assembly. The seals are formed between the pipe and the washer and the washer and the conical recess on the flush valve. Check that the surfaces are clean, smooth and the alignment is square.

If no joy, try another seal from a plumbers' merchant. They are (nominally) standard sizes but there seems to be some variation nonetheless. Depending on which flush valve you have, you may be able to get a seal from the same manufacturer.

 

[GameForkStudio]

Thanks again Chuck. The plumbers' merchant is closed today. Hopefully I'll try tomorrow.
I still not sure about the size of the flush pipe. When I originally measured it, I thought it was 1.5" but when I tried to fit a 1.5" washer it was too big, so I bought a 1.25" washer and it was a better fit!!
I can't take the flush pipe out of the back of the toilet (very tight space) but I measured the nut that goes around the pipe and it seems to be a tiny bit bigger than 1.5" (please see attached photo). The flush valve I bought is a flumasta and the bag says it fits both 1.5" and 2". Does that mean my 1.25" pipe is too small?
The washers I bought are labled "TrapSeal" (see photo). Are those the correct washers?
I will take the cistern (including the flush valve) and pipe nut (but not the pipe) with me to the plumbers' merchants tomorrow but without knowing thte pipe size for sure, will they be able to help?

 

[ShaunCorbs]

Low Level Cistern Flush Pipe Nut and Cone Washer - 08001369

Low Level Cistern Flush Pipe Nut and Cone Washer A plastic nut and rubber washer for securing the flush pipe to the cistern the nut will screw

www.plumbers-mate-sales.co.uk

 

[GameForkStudio]

Thanks a lot Shaun. I did a google search based on the product name you posted and it gave:

Flomasta Flush pipe Coupler (Dia)100mm

Universal flush bend fittings kit including flush cone, 1½" seal and nut kit and 2" seal and nut kit. Can be used with fixed flush bends

www.diy.com

I have a local B&Q near me so if that is the same I can get one tomorrow. Or do they come in different sizes?

 

[ShaunCorbs]

Thanks a lot Shaun. I did a google search based on the product name you posted and it gave:

Flomasta Flush pipe Coupler (Dia)100mm

Universal flush bend fittings kit including flush cone, 1½" seal and nut kit and 2" seal and nut kit. Can be used with fixed flush bends

www.diy.com

I have a local B&Q near me so if that is the same I can get one tomorrow. Or do they come in different sizes?

that should do the trick

 

[Chuck]

I still not sure about the size of the flush pipe. When I originally measured it, I thought it was 1.5" but when I tried to fit a 1.5" washer it was too big, so I bought a 1.25" washer and it was a better fit!!

I think that you may have a 32mm (1,1/4") flush pipe, which is uncommon for low-level cisterns. The washer you are looking for is conical and may be described as 'for high-level cisterns'. Masefield Beta part L02006S:

https://www.masefield-beta.co.uk/catalogue/cistern-flushing/flushpipes-and-cc-kits/tapered-pvc-rings-suit-flushpipes-and-flushbends

looks like a good bet to me. Its id is 1,1/4" and od is 1,3/4" so I think it should fit a 1,1/4" pipe into your valve. They don't sell direct to the public so, if this is what you need, you'll need to get a merchant to order one.

It might be easier to replace the flush pipe and cone with a 1,1/2" one like most people have...