when connecting a toilet tank to the bowl, you first install the flush valve and the big tank to bowl gasket.

After that you install the two tank bolts connecting tank to the bowl.

I have seen it done two ways.

one way is to install the two tank bolts to the tank, secure with washer and nuts. The tank is the inserted and held down compressing the center gasket while tightening from below a second set of nuts.

the other way is no nuts between tank and bowl, the bolts goes through the tank and the top of the bowl and one set of nuts is used to secure the tank.

I have done it both ways, but felt the first way is less likely to leak and more secured...but is it really?



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either way will work.

what is important is that the fasteners are brass or stainless. no plated steel

While it is a bit more work, I always do it the first way, for two reasons. Less likely to leak since the rubber washers in the tank are not subjected as much to stresses caused the people leaning against the tank. Secondly you are making it easier take the tank off the bowl for service. You don't have to touch the old rubber washers which have become slimy and leave black residue on your hands. You also do not have to completely empty out the water from the tank. Any water remaining in the tank can be poured out into the shower stall after you pull the tank off.



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First way always, bolt washer and then outside of the tank a washer and another knot to tighten down the bolt to bowl potential leak spot. It'll never leave that time