1957 Standard Toilet Flush Problem

I just installed said toilet in a new bath and can't get the final flush-push.It fills with power, gets to the rim (seems too high) with a strong swirl, then goes back down with no final push. It does not replace, only dilutes, coffee-stained water. I had a diff't toilet installed last month that worked fine, so it's not a venting problem. This came after sitting for years, so I pulled it back up and pulled a 2-washcloth wad thru it. After some petrified crud came out, it went thru pretty easily so I re-installed. No difference.

Is there supposed to be a hole at the front of the flush-hole for the push? Mine seems like just a depression, unless it is somehow calcified or otherwise plugged to cement-like hardness. There were some little pebbles in the bowl-rinse rim holes.

Any suggestions ? Or should I just give up and go buy new?

Visual aid

The bowl on the right is a 1950's "Standard" Cadet. Does the interior of your 1957 "Standard" look like this one? If so, then there is a jet at the bottom of the bowl facing the drain. If you can't see it then it's plugged up with something (calcium deposits?).

achutch

thanks a bunch!

Yes that was my toilet on the right- I just managed to chisel through the "plug" and now it flushes great! I guess it was calcification-but it sure was a smooth, even plug. I think the toilet was sitting in storage in the woods for 10+ years. I suppose I'll let some CLR or Limeaway soak in there for a while to clear the rest. Thanks for your help! -Chris

Chris,

Glad I was able to help. The CLR or Lime Away soak is an excellent idea.

I would also suggest using an acidic bowl cleaner as part of your regular cleaning, especially if you have hard water. If there is anything left in the jet, the cleaner will eventually get rid of it all. I generally use Lysol Toilet Bowl Cleaner, but there are other brands that are acidic. Look for 9.5% hydrogen chloride (also known as hydrochloric or muriatic acid) as the active ingredient.

Matt (achutch)

Muriatic acid will etch the porcelain if you are not careful.