How to Replace a Toilet Tank Lever

One of the parts in a toilet tank that frequently needs to be replaced is the toilet tank lever. Since the lever is normally made of metal it begins to rust quickly as it comes in contact with the water and hence it does not last very long. Knowing how to replace a toilet tank lever is an added advantage so you don’t need to call the plumber or a handy person to replace it. If you have the proper tools you will be able to replace it by yourself and save some money. A plastic toilet tank lever is more durable than a metal one.

Step 1 - Shut off the Water

The first thing to do is to shut off the water supply to the toilet tank, so that you can work without getting the whole place wet.

Step 2 - Drain the Tank

Let the tank drain by flushing the water down the toilet.

Step 3 - Remove the Lid

Remove the lid of the toilet tank to start removing the faulty lever.

Step 4 - Remove the Chain

Remove the chain from the arm of the lever.

Step 5 - Remove the Nut and Lever

Remove the nut from the handle of the lever by turning the nut clockwise. Once the nut has come off completely, you can remove the lever from the tank.

Step 6 - Compare the Old and New Levers

Compare the arm length of the old and the new lever. If the new lever is longer than the old one, measure the right length and use a hacksaw to cut the arm of the new lever to match the old lever.

Step 7 - Fix the New Lever

Insert the new lever arm through the hole in the tank making sure that it fits snug into the hole. In case you have a side mounted or angle mounted tank, you will need to bend the arm of the lever to match the form of your old lever.

Step 8 - Fix the Nut

Once the arm sits snugly in the hole take the lock nut and fix it on the arm of the lever. Make sure the flat side of the nut is facing the handle.

Step 9 - Tighten the Nut

Use your hands to tighten the nut. Remember the threading is reverse.

Step 10 - Fix the Chain

Fix the chain to the hole on the lever arm that gives the best possible lift. When the flapper is down there should be a bit of slack.

Step 11 - Fill the Tank

Turn on the water and let the tank fill up. Flush the tank to check if there is proper lift. If there is no proper lift of the chain, adjust the chain and try again.

Step 12 - Tighten the Nut

Once you see that the lever is working well, use the pliers to tighten the lock nut. Make sure it is well secured, but do not use too much force when you tighten the lock nut.