Possible to replace this flush valve?

[MattWeth]

Got called out to take a look at a cloakroom loo that "hasn't worked for ages". Turned out it had started leaking from the flush valve to cistern seal and the doughnut (leaked a little when the cistern was full and then leaked a lot when flushed!). They had just tied the ball valve up and left it.

When I got there I found this:





I must admit that i've not come across one of these before - Is it possible to replace these flush valves? (I'm assuming that a standard close coupling kit will take care of the donut)

Any advice appreciated.

Cheers
Matt

 

[Skelly87]

Just looks like an old syphon

 

[Alanc]

Looks like an old ceramic/porcelain siphon.
I would stick in a height adjustable unit, which could take care of any overflow issues.
And a new close coupled kit with donut.


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[SilentMike]

if you not set on using a new siphon you could use a fluid master dual flush fits both 1½" to 2" outlets
not a bad price either

 

[MattWeth]

Thanks everyone.

The customer certainly isn't set on a siphon - i'll look into the fluid master dual flush.

 

[kay-jay]

Fluidmaster do a dual flush valve with a handle option now instead of a button. Up for half flush down for full flush.

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[kay-jay]

P.s last time i saw a ceramic valve like that the w/c had a syphonic pan so check first as you may need a non standard part.

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[Guest123]

A short projection Macdee syphon will fit. Fit a new handle and assembly as well, they only cost a fiver.

Last time I saw a syphon like that, Scotland were still qualifying for World Cups.

 

[MattWeth]

Thanks guys.

Shame I can't use a fluidmaster - I'm wondering whether this might be a can of worms once I take it all to bits

 

[Guest123]

Thanks guys.

Shame I can't use a fluidmaster - I'm wondering whether this might be a can of worms once I take it all to bits

A BIG can of worms mate. Be cheaper long term to fit a modern budget toilet that has parts that are easily replaced. By the time you fart about with that relic, and have to come back several times, a new loo will be the best option. Try a plumb sure or a Wickes loo.

 

[MattWeth]

A BIG can of worms mate. Be cheaper long term to fit a modern budget toilet that has parts that are easily replaced. By the time you fart about with that relic, and have to come back several times, a new loo will be the best option. Try a plumb sure or a Wickes loo.

Good call

I'm going to recommend a replacement loo.

 

[Skelly87]

Unless im reading the origional post wrong isnt the problem just a leaking loo. Why not take syphon out, reseal, replace donut washer and give that a go. Ive only had an old ceramic syphon out once in my life but its the same as the modern plastic ones. Well same principle anyway. Just a different shape

 

[Best]

Unless im reading the origional post wrong isnt the problem just a leaking loo. Why not take syphon out, reseal, replace donut washer and give that a go. Ive only had an old ceramic syphon out once in my life but its the same as the modern plastic ones. Well same principle anyway. Just a different shape

Yea, it may well be just a few new washers needed. You won't know till it's taken apart. Worst ceramic syphons are the type with a separate base & held together with heavy brass countersunk bolts. If any the bolts rot, the syphon won't work & a pain to get similar bolts.
Chances are, if you had all washers & piece of heavy plastic sheet for cutting syphon washers, plus handle linkages etc, you could fix it & in one go, but could turn in to a waste of time.

 

[johnnyplumb]

it's repairable, but you'll make more money and have less problems if you can sell them a new wc & cistern.

if you decide to replace the syphon, you'll find when you take the old one out that it'll almost certainly be 2"or even slightly larger.

so unless you've got a spare fluidmaster 1 1/2"- 2" rubber, you'll have a problem fitting a standard sypon and getting it sealed, you'll probably find the bolts / wingnuts corroded as well.

 

[Skelly87]

Dont get me wrong best id replace the thing. Yes the older stuff is built to last unlike most stuff today but spares can be an issue like you said. I was just putting a different option out there. Pointless everybody saying the same thing

 

[MattWeth]

Thanks for the input everyone.

so unless you've got a spare fluidmaster 1 1/2"- 2" rubber, you'll have a problem fitting a standard sypon and getting it sealed, you'll probably find the bolts / wingnuts corroded as well.

Eveything is corroded both inside and outside the cistern.

Thinking about it after the advice I've received, I'm getting increasingly convinced that a repair is probably going to be a potential nightmare.

I think it's new loo time for my customer...