Replacing screws to bolt down a toilet helps to secure a toilet in place. After years of use, eventually the hold down bolts will become loose. When this happens your toilet will shift and could begin to leak when you flush the toilet. You can replace the hold down bolts on a toilet with the help of a friend, since most toilet bowls weigh about 60 lbs. Replacement hold down bolts are available at plumbing supply houses and hardware stores.
8 You can purchase a kit that includes the replacement flange and replace the flange and the bolts at the same time. It is a good idea to inspect and replace the wax ring since you have the toilet bowl removed.
Remove the hold down bolt cover caps on each side of the toilet. Most caps will pull off while others may be threaded. Use an adjustable wrench to remove the nuts securing the base of the toilet bowl to the hold down bolts. If the nuts will not budge or the bolt turns with the nut, you will have to cut the bolts off with a hacksaw.
Inspect the flange around the drain hole that the hold down bolts connect. If the drain flange appears to have damage, it is a good idea to replace the flange and the bolts. You can just replace the bolts if the flange is in good condition.
Place a level across the top of the toilet bowl to check the levelness of the toilet. Place shims under the base of the bowl if necessary. Place flat washers over each hold down bolt and thread the retaining nuts on each bolt. Tighten the bolts evenly with an adjustable wrench. Do not over tighten and crack the porcelain. Cut the excess bolt off ½-inch above the retaining nut with the hacksaw. Place the bolt cover on each hold down bolt.