How to remove a glued cistern

[IainT]

Morning everyone. We have a leak from one of cistern holding down bolts on our close coupled WC. This has occurred after a plumber replaced the flush valve yesterday. The problem is now that the plumber says he can't get the cistern off to replace the bolts because it is glued ( probably silconed ) to the wall. He was aware of this before he quoted on the flush valve job and the method we discussed allowed for the removal of the cistern. He is now suggesting a full replacement of the cistern and WC instead. At the moment our leaking toilet is isolated from the water supply. A few questions: I assume it is correct that to replace the holding down bolts the cistern has to be removed and other techniques such as trying to seal the leaking bolt won't work. Is this correct? I know that removing a glued cistern is a pain, but is it possible using a cheese wire or hacksaw blades? Are there any other things we can investigate to avoid the significant cost of a brand new WC? All advice gratefully received.

 

[exedon2]

Normally its just 2 blob of sealant pumped tho fixings holes.
Easily cut through with a sharp blade.
I have a thin 45mm wide scraper sharpened up to do the job.
Hacksaw blade old handsaw whatever you can get in.
Or alternatively get a more experienced plumber!

 

[RayW]

 

[snowhead]

As above, blades, knives, wires,, plenty of solutions to removing it without breaking it.
Wire from a MIG welder.

And also as above, new plumber.

 

[ShaunCorbs]

Cheese wire I use

 

[IainT]

Thanks to all. The solution turned out to be a flexible carving knife to cut through what turned out to be 4 large blobs of silcone. It took about an hour to do it carefully, but the cistern is now off and in one piece. I also found it useful to carefully tap in some hard plastic wedges as I went, to stop the knife blade becoming stuck. Plumber now called back to finish the job originally asked to complete. As ever, this forum is the business for getting practical advice. Cheers