I never looked under the tank lid! It is dated 2004 Kohler just as your information is noted. I can see the corrosion and waterflow marks between the tank and the bowl. THANK YOU
This is the only video that I could find that had the metal plate to attach the tank to the toilet. I'm kind of scared that I will start and can't finish. This toilet is 15 years old. Might be time for a new one. Thanks again.
Thanks for great vid. I had exact same symptom w/ exact same model. On disassembly I found all components of the flush-valve assembly to be in great shape except the gasket itself which was ragged. So I replaced just GP1018165 ($8 @ H.D.) and problem gone. Took about 15 minutes. Thanks, this video really helped me.
I just ran into this same issue and feel strongly it has to be the black gasket between the tank and bowl which, as Tom H mentions, is an easy fix and $8. Will confirm when I am done.
TY for this video! My husband recently passed after long illness. I’m trying to learn and fix things around the house. I struggled with that damn nut. I finally put some zero acid and let it soak 30 minutes and it finally turned. Took a bit to get completely off. Thought it was that I just don’t have strength, but knowing you chose to use a reciprocating saw, gave me a bit more confidence in my abilities (I’m not weak). My metal plate had some rust, I sanded it down, wiped with alcohol and used some spray enamel paint before putting it back on.
@@JimmiePorterAtStuartArts Would you recommend using teflon tape around the thread to make it easier to disassemble in the future? I would use a hacksaw instead of a sawzall to free a ring.
Some may find the source to be the foam rubber gasket only. Because the tank "floats" on the bowl, more or less with the foam being the critical part, it may tear with any backwards pressure put against the tank. Try replacing this gasket first before progressing through the other flush valve components...easy enough test on its own. 2 nuts and a tank purge of the water is all the work you're risking to possibly save a more expensive and time-consuming disassembly of the entire flush valve. That said, anyone owning one or more of these toilets should keep the entire flush valve parts list on hand in case of failure and to avoid downtime.
I used a plier type oil filter wrench for the large nut. Do not over tighten; one turn past finger tight is sufficient. Too tight distorts the seal and it will leak.
Oil works too. Let oil or wd-40 seep into the joint to get the large nut off. Works like a charm. If it's stubborn I use a flathead and hammer and slightly tap the nut until it begins to move. Of course always make sure you're going in the right direction.
Mine new out of the box leaked like crazy, it turns out that the porcelain where the seal meets the bowl was not even close to being true. I put a one pound coffee can over the opening and there was a 1/8 inch gap towards the toilet seat area. I returned it to the store and picked up a replacement and it was perfect. The 2020 model changed the system to a 360 design I believe. Thanks for the video.
Frustrating to have to go through that. But I think you will be pleased with the performance now that it’s sorted out. We’ve had zero problems with ours in the 10 years or so we’ve had them. Good luck!
I just had this same exact problem. The issue appeared to be the black rubber seal between the tank and the bowl. I could not see how anything else could possibly produce a leak in that area. So as suggested by others on this thread, i went to HD, got Kohler part #GP1018165, removed the tank, replaced that seal and in 10 mins time, had everything done and no more leaks. Cost $5.30 plus tax. So before anyone goes down the path of all the effort in the video, first try to replace the black seal which is easy access and cheap to replace. Also, the new seal is larger than the original which creates a much better seal
It’s the dry lock gasket that went over that abs nut that you couldn’t remove. If it was inside the tank it would have a constant leak. The dry lock gasket is what stops it leaking when you flush. $5 part.
I had the same commode, same problem. I put a bigger washer ring on bottom. Ain’t leaked since. 3.49 cot to repair 48 hours trying to figure out where water was coming from. Problem solved. My guess is Koehler put wrong do not hasket
Great video. Thanks for taking the time to explain. I’ve just recently switched to the Kohler from the American Standard Champion series. I had three of them in the house. And like these- all three seemed to have the same issue. AS recognized that and offered a free replacement part if you called them. I wonder if Kohler is realizing the same thing ?? We can’t all be wrong, right ?
Mitch Deitrich I bought those pliers at a yard sale years ago thinking " I'll never need anything this big". Turns out to be two bucks well spent! Thanks for watching Mitch.
The only thing missing is how to get the tank off of the toilet. I don’t see the bolts that attach the tank to the bottom. I’m also very worried I won’t be able to loosen anything you said was very tight. Maybe I’ll need to simply buy a new toilet... thanks for the video. Huge help to simply know what’s wrong and what needs to be done.
Wondering if this is an issue with these, during a bathroom remodel (Tile, new shower the works) of my house I found the sub floor had a small amount of mold under this toilet (13 years old) and when disassembling the toilet found the metal plate severely corroded, have ordered the same parts as you (found this video after I had diagnosed and ordered) and will be referbing this toilet as well. All and all not to bad for 13 years of service but now will check it every couple years or so.
i have a vid but youtube thinks im a ruboot ,if i cut me do i not bleed . this leek is worse now its up to the dogs ear ,and she dont like the sound of it
I've never seen another toilet brand that requires a metal plate to hold the tank onto the toilet bowl. I've only seen assembly with the bolts going directly through the tank with a good washer seal arrangement inside the tank. Why Kohler thought this was a good idea, I will never know. This metal plate concept just complicates the issue. I hope some engineer got paid well for their idea.
@@JimmiePorterAtStuartArts I'm in a 10 year old condo in Canada. Will shutting off the water valve shut off water to anything else in the bathroom? It's a rental so I'm scared if messing with the knob valve will ruin any pipes or anything? It hasn't overflowed but the water did rise to half a bowl after hours of it running...
electroboy i don't know what your configuration is, but there is usually a shutoff valve behind or near the toilet. If so, then that is all that should be isolated. The way to know is just shut it off and check your other faucets, shower, etc. if there's still flow to those items then you're OK. If there are any problems just open it back up again.
@@JimmiePorterAtStuartArts Yes, there is the valve at the bottom of the toilet. Only one pipe connection to this 10 year old Kohler toilet. So there is no way I can damage anything by turning off the valve? How do I know how much to turn it? Thank you!
electroboy When you close the valve any flow noise to the toilet will disappear. You"ll know its isolated if when you flush it it does not refill. Sounds your fill valve is leaking by...very common. Pretty easy job...your landlord should be able to knock it out in a few minutes. Sometimes when you cycle that isolation valve you can get a drip from the stem. Be sure to have a pan or bucket under the valve in case it leaks.
Well I know this is an older vid and posts, but the Cimarron still leaks between the base and bowl. The seal connection like I’ve seen posted about several times. Lucke me I decided to buy an expensive kohler. Could not get it to stop leaking no matter what I tried. Took the bowl off three times and tightened the bowl looser, tighter, and in between. This thing leaks no matter what. Finally cracked the bowl after finally tightening more. Piece of garbage imo.
@@JimmiePorterAtStuartArts HELPFUL??!! Are you kidding me??!! I was about to spend $400 on a new toilet!!!!!!! Even tech support at Kohler just told me that the only thing that would cause that leak is that gasket. Nobel Prize in Plumbing for you!! Thanks soooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo much!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! A+++
@@JimmiePorterAtStuartArts Hey!!!! I had the exact same problem!! That ring had disintegrated. Got a new ring at Home Depot for $6 . All fixed!!! You saved me $$$$$$$ . Thanks so much!👍🏻🎃😷🌵🙏🏻
@@JimmiePorterAtStuartArts had to get Lowes to swap the tank out with another unit. It was like pulling teeth. Home Depot, that would be in and out in 10 minutes. Took 40 minutes at Lowe’s.
are you kidding me??? "any backwards pressure may tear the gasket " just what do think wer'e doing on the commode? sitting back and letting go. the kohler toilet tank issue is a disaster looking for a place to happen. start it leaking by sitting back against the tank. then leave home for a few hrs. return to a flooded home. kohler....the worst crapper on the planet
Thank you so much for your video. I am an old lady and I was able to fix my 19 year old toilet with the help of this video.
Awesome!
I never looked under the tank lid! It is dated 2004 Kohler just as your information is noted. I can see the corrosion and waterflow marks between the tank and the bowl. THANK YOU
@@Hope-fv3kf glad to help. Good luck!
This is the only video that I could find that had the metal plate to attach the tank to the toilet. I'm kind of scared that I will start and can't finish. This toilet is 15 years old. Might be time for a new one. Thanks again.
Sometimes that’s the best option...lower hassle-factor...good luck!
Thanks for great vid. I had exact same symptom w/ exact same model. On disassembly I found all components of the flush-valve assembly to be in great shape except the gasket itself which was ragged. So I replaced just GP1018165 ($8 @ H.D.) and problem gone. Took about 15 minutes. Thanks, this video really helped me.
Tom H glad it was helpful!
Same problem, but I called Kohler and they confirmed that GP1018165-F was the fix, thanks for the video!
I just ran into this same issue and feel strongly it has to be the black gasket between the tank and bowl which, as Tom H mentions, is an easy fix and $8. Will confirm when I am done.
@@bsenright did you confirm it ?
@@Bugsbunny808 yes
TY for this video! My husband recently passed after long illness. I’m trying to learn and fix things around the house. I struggled with that damn nut. I finally put some zero acid and let it soak 30 minutes and it finally turned. Took a bit to get completely off. Thought it was that I just don’t have strength, but knowing you chose to use a reciprocating saw, gave me a bit more confidence in my abilities (I’m not weak). My metal plate had some rust, I sanded it down, wiped with alcohol and used some spray enamel paint before putting it back on.
Cheri Madlom so sorry for your loss but also happy this was of help to you...be well!
@@JimmiePorterAtStuartArts Would you recommend using teflon tape around the thread to make it easier to disassemble in the future? I would use a hacksaw instead of a sawzall to free a ring.
Some may find the source to be the foam rubber gasket only. Because the tank "floats" on the bowl, more or less with the foam being the critical part, it may tear with any backwards pressure put against the tank. Try replacing this gasket first before progressing through the other flush valve components...easy enough test on its own. 2 nuts and a tank purge of the water is all the work you're risking to possibly save a more expensive and time-consuming disassembly of the entire flush valve. That said, anyone owning one or more of these toilets should keep the entire flush valve parts list on hand in case of failure and to avoid downtime.
I used a plier type oil filter wrench for the large nut. Do not over tighten; one turn past finger tight is sufficient. Too tight distorts the seal and it will leak.
Oil works too. Let oil or wd-40 seep into the joint to get the large nut off. Works like a charm. If it's stubborn I use a flathead and hammer and slightly tap the nut until it begins to move. Of course always make sure you're going in the right direction.
I love it when folks add their experience. Great comment!
Mine new out of the box leaked like crazy, it turns out that the porcelain where the seal meets the bowl was not even close to being true. I put a one pound coffee can over the opening and there was a 1/8 inch gap towards the toilet seat area. I returned it to the store and picked up a replacement and it was perfect. The 2020 model changed the system to a 360 design I believe. Thanks for the video.
Frustrating to have to go through that. But I think you will be pleased with the performance now that it’s sorted out. We’ve had zero problems with ours in the 10 years or so we’ve had them. Good luck!
I just had this same exact problem. The issue appeared to be the black rubber seal between the tank and the bowl. I could not see how anything else could possibly produce a leak in that area. So as suggested by others on this thread, i went to HD, got Kohler part #GP1018165, removed the tank, replaced that seal and in 10 mins time, had everything done and no more leaks. Cost $5.30 plus tax. So before anyone goes down the path of all the effort in the video, first try to replace the black seal which is easy access and cheap to replace. Also, the new seal is larger than the original which creates a much better seal
B Enright thanks for the info!
It’s the dry lock gasket that went over that abs nut that you couldn’t remove. If it was inside the tank it would have a constant leak. The dry lock gasket is what stops it leaking when you flush. $5 part.
Where did you buy it?
@@group9234 I think it was homedepot
You will need a very large pair of channel locks to remove the large plastic nut. It’s probably 5 or 6 inches diameter.
Thanks for the video. I also could not remove the large nut at the bottom, but you inspired me to break out the power tools!
Hank Carter it's a bear to loosen..good luck!
Thank you for this video. I could find nothing else to help with my issue.
So glad this was helpful!
I had the same commode, same problem. I put a bigger washer ring on bottom. Ain’t leaked since. 3.49 cot to repair 48 hours trying to figure out where water was coming from. Problem solved. My guess is Koehler put wrong do not hasket
Thanks for the excellent information. Your wife's problem-solving skills are superb!
Todd Impson she's a keeper!
Great video. Thanks for taking the time to explain. I’ve just recently switched to the Kohler from the American Standard Champion series. I had three of them in the house. And like these- all three seemed to have the same issue. AS recognized that and offered a free replacement part if you called them. I wonder if Kohler is realizing the same thing ?? We can’t all be wrong, right ?
Good point!
would love to know what you found to help. thanks
Someone sat down to hard and hit the tank backwards a hair, throwing the seal off causing the leak. I am going through the same problem now.
Well done Jim! Huge pliers... Check! Yeah man push that rock over!!! lol
Mitch Deitrich I bought those pliers at a yard sale years ago thinking " I'll never need anything this big". Turns out to be two bucks well spent! Thanks for watching Mitch.
FYI. An auto oil filter wrench makes quick work of getting off that large retaining nut.
No it didn't! I even put an extender bar on the filter wrench and that nut wouldn't budge..... Left it on, bought a new gasket and problem solved.
The only thing missing is how to get the tank off of the toilet. I don’t see the bolts that attach the tank to the bottom. I’m also very worried I won’t be able to loosen anything you said was very tight. Maybe I’ll need to simply buy a new toilet... thanks for the video. Huge help to simply know what’s wrong and what needs to be done.
Tiffeny Thompson best of luck to you!
I saw a video where the guy used a wrench that removes the oil filter on a car.
@@Hope-fv3kf many ways to skin a cat….(so they say…)
Just have exact same problem, you save my day with this video 👍👍👍
Abel Diaz that is cool to hear! Good luck with your repair.
Jimmie Porter At Stuart Arts ,thank you
Actually this is a very good and educational video. Well done
Thank you for the kind words an merry Christmas.
Wondering if this is an issue with these, during a bathroom remodel (Tile, new shower the works) of my house I found the sub floor had a small amount of mold under this toilet (13 years old) and when disassembling the toilet found the metal plate severely corroded, have ordered the same parts as you (found this video after I had diagnosed and ordered) and will be referbing this toilet as well. All and all not to bad for 13 years of service but now will check it every couple years or so.
whitey22222 when they are set up well they are really decent performers. Really no complaints here.
Missed The Fun Part, Tightening The Tank Nuts To The Bowl... 🚽💥🔧
#GotTouchTorque?
Thank you for posting this helpful video
Mine started doing that right away after purchase, my solution - no more Kohler
Good video, man. and...yes...the Dude Abides.
😀
Excellent video, overall job well done. Love the boulder scene lol
jim your end looks good but why is my puter pissing now ? its only about a cup though
Noway Jerk a puter calamity! Let's do a vid....
i have a vid but youtube thinks im a ruboot ,if i cut me do i not bleed . this leek is worse now its up to the dogs ear ,and she dont like the sound of it
I've never seen another toilet brand that requires a metal plate to hold the tank onto the toilet bowl. I've only seen assembly with the bolts going directly through the tank with a good washer seal arrangement inside the tank. Why Kohler thought this was a good idea, I will never know. This metal plate concept just complicates the issue. I hope some engineer got paid well for their idea.
Anytime I assemble something like that I load the threads with grease to keep water out longer. 2 cents
Dave M that's a good tip - should have thought of it!
Ditto that, I either use vaseline or Dow Corning makes a die electric compound called DC-4 that also works well.
my bowl is running right now and the water is rising! Can i turn off the water off till the plumber comes tomorrow? Or will something bad happen?
electroboy if the toilet is going to overflow or will not stop running I would shut the water off until repairs are made. Good luck!
@@JimmiePorterAtStuartArts I'm in a 10 year old condo in Canada. Will shutting off the water valve shut off water to anything else in the bathroom?
It's a rental so I'm scared if messing with the knob valve will ruin any pipes or anything? It hasn't overflowed but the water did rise to half a bowl after hours of it running...
electroboy i don't know what your configuration is, but there is usually a shutoff valve behind or near the toilet. If so, then that is all that should be isolated. The way to know is just shut it off and check your other faucets, shower, etc. if there's still flow to those items then you're OK. If there are any problems just open it back up again.
@@JimmiePorterAtStuartArts Yes, there is the valve at the bottom of the toilet. Only one pipe connection to this 10 year old Kohler toilet. So there is no way I can damage anything by turning off the valve? How do I know how much to turn it? Thank you!
electroboy When you close the valve any flow noise to the toilet will disappear. You"ll know its isolated if when you flush it it does not refill. Sounds your fill valve is leaking by...very common. Pretty easy job...your landlord should be able to knock it out in a few minutes. Sometimes when you cycle that isolation valve you can get a drip from the stem. Be sure to have a pan or bucket under the valve in case it leaks.
The Dude thanks you for the vid 👍🏼
what parts did you order? Mine is leaking now I took it apart...
The Dude abides
You might find it easier to unscrew that gasket from the inside
Well I know this is an older vid and posts, but the Cimarron still leaks between the base and bowl. The seal connection like I’ve seen posted about several times. Lucke me I decided to buy an expensive kohler. Could not get it to stop leaking no matter what I tried. Took the bowl off three times and tightened the bowl looser, tighter, and in between. This thing leaks no matter what. Finally cracked the bowl after finally tightening more. Piece of garbage imo.
Mine leaks there too!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I hope this was helpful!
@@JimmiePorterAtStuartArts HELPFUL??!! Are you kidding me??!! I was about to spend $400 on a new toilet!!!!!!! Even tech support at Kohler just told me that the only thing that would cause that leak is that gasket. Nobel Prize in Plumbing for you!! Thanks soooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo much!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! A+++
@@JimmiePorterAtStuartArts Hey!!!! I had the exact same problem!! That ring had disintegrated. Got a new ring at Home Depot for $6 . All fixed!!! You saved me $$$$$$$ . Thanks so much!👍🏻🎃😷🌵🙏🏻
Kohler has some designes designed to be non-repairable. Kohler ::: Great Name but I would not buy it again!
I just bought this dumbass toilet and it was leaking immediately from the tank to bowl transition
😑
Once you get that fixed they are great…ours ate about 10 years old and no clogs.
@@JimmiePorterAtStuartArts had to get Lowes to swap the tank out with another unit. It was like pulling teeth. Home Depot, that would be in and out in 10 minutes. Took 40 minutes at Lowe’s.
} ok
Kohler has made some really bad toilets.
are you kidding me??? "any backwards pressure may tear the gasket " just what do think wer'e doing on the commode? sitting back and letting go. the kohler toilet tank issue is a disaster looking for a place to happen. start it leaking by sitting back against the tank. then leave home for a few hrs. return to a flooded home. kohler....the worst crapper on the planet