Hello. While replacing a new wax ring on my toilet, one of the 3.5 inch flange bolts fell down the toilet connection drain. I tried reaching down the pipe, but could not find the bolt. Is this going to cause a problem if left alone or do I need to contact a plumber? Thanks
Dropped a Flange Bolt Down the Toilet Connection Drain
- Thread starter typesh
- Start date
Dunbar Plumbing
Master Plumber
Use a shop vac and see if you can retrieve it. A magnet will not work since it is brass.......but they are making some knock off parts these days that look like brass and are really metal.
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RUGGED said:
I tried using my mini shop vac and inserted the hose as far as it would go, but did not have any luck. I tried using a magnet on the other bolt, but it didn't work.
Do you think this will cause any blockage problems if left alone?
Dunbar Plumbing
Master Plumber
Yes, it can but you don't want to pay a plumber to fish this out because it can become time consumbing on many fronts.
If you have a clear shot to a clean out beneath this toilet, I would open a cleanout and stick the shop vac hose down as far as you can. If you toilet drain goes a long distance horizontally....the bolt is still up in the long run.
Sometimes waiting for a clog may be the cheapest route.
If you have a clear shot to a clean out beneath this toilet, I would open a cleanout and stick the shop vac hose down as far as you can. If you toilet drain goes a long distance horizontally....the bolt is still up in the long run.
Sometimes waiting for a clog may be the cheapest route.
Mikey
Aspiring Old Fart, EE, computer & networking geek
I would start with a mirror and flashlight to see if it can be seen before shoving anything down the drain, which might do nothing more than push the bolt further out of reach.
