How to Install a Toilet Drain Lever

If your toilet is not flushing properly, pay close attention to the handle when attempting to flush. If the handle feels especially loose, it may be because the drain lever has rotted or is broken. Removing the existing toilet lever and installing a new one is a quick process. The project should take no more that 10 to 15 minutes, and it only requires a wrench and a new toilet lever. Once installed, the toilet should drain as normal.

Wrench

Instructions

- 1
  Shut off the water to the toilet by turning the stop-valve. Flush the toilet to empty the tank.
- 2
  Remove the chain assembly from the drain lever.
- 3
  Loosen the handle using a wrench. Remove the handle and discard the existing lever.
- 4
  Slide the new lever through the hole in the tank so the handle is back in its proper place. Slide the nut down the lever and tighten it. Do not over-tighten it or the toilet will be unable to flush.
- 5
  Reattach the chain assembly to the new lever.
- 6
  Turn on the water and wait for the tank to fill with water. Test the new handle and lever, ensuring it flushes the toilet as normal. If it is operating appropriately, the flapper will open, allowing the water to flush, and close again. If the flapper does not shut properly, you may need to adjust the length of the chain assembly.

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Plumbing