Can I buy a stainless steel WC close-coupling kit?

[Chris Newman]

The siphon on our 1980’s close-coupled Armitage Shanks WC has failed. I found a very helpful YouTube video advising replacing it with a serviceable Thomas Dudley Turbo 88 Syphon. I’ve got as far as checking the coupling wing nuts, to see whether I should be able do the job myself, or need to call in a plumber with an angle grinder to cut off rusted screws. One of the screws pulled right through the back of the pan, so I guess that side of the coupling plate has rusted away. Can I get a stainless steel replacement close coupling kit, that might last as long as I hope the fixed part of the Thomas Dudley Turbo Syphon will, and if so, where from?

With thanks in advance,
Chris

 

[ShaunCorbs]

No you can't but you can get brass screws and wing nuts

 

[Chris Newman]

No you can't but you can get brass screws and wing nuts

Thanks Shaun, my own searches had been unsuccessful. Frustrating that I can’t find a plate that is likely to last!

I was planning to substitute stainless steel coach screws and wing nuts for the zinc-plated ones typically provided in kits. Any reason why brass would be better?


Chris

 

[ShaunCorbs]

Over stock much but over ss nothing

 

[Chris Newman]

Over stock much but over ss nothing

Thanks again Shaun.

Chris

 

[Chris Newman]

I’ve now replace the siphon successfully, but found that the close coupling plate was in an even worse state than I feared (photo after knocking off the looser flakes of rust uploaded). It’s so frustrating that I had to fit another plate that’ll probably go the same way!

Chris

 

[ShaunCorbs]

Yes very common they don't make them any good

Always change the plate with a new kit

 

[Chris Newman]

My whole reason for choosing the Dudley Turbo 88 syphon was that the working parts can be replaced without removing the cistern from the pan. I was hoping never to need to dismantle the whole WC again, which is why I wanted a close coupling plate that would last!

Chris

 

[Chalked]

To go like that, it must be leaking , or a serious condensation problem.

 

[rpm]

Aim to cure the cause not just the problem. Lots of cistern bleach blocks rot the rubber leading to leakages.