Need to find out how I can remove soft-close top fix toilet fittings?

[DAVID CORKINDALE]

I have the job of trying to remove the fittings for an existing soft-close, top-fix, toilet seat.

The problem is that I cannot get the 2 existing bungs and one stubborn machine screw out of the holes in the porcelain. The screw just goes round and round in the hole - it won't unscrew out and it won't tighten either, for that matter).

Is there a particular technique for removing:
(a) both of the rubber bungs and,in particular,
(b) a machine screw that seems to have its thread broken?

I attach 4 photographs showing the position as it is now.


I have already tried WD40 and have also tried applying pressure against the washer from under the screw whilst continuing to try to unscrew it from above, but without success. Someone previously suggested to me cutting the head off the screw but surely that would make the matter even worse as everything else would still be left in the hole.

I imagine this is not the first time someone has had this problem. Anyone got any ideas that might help? As a DIYer I have never come across these type of fittings before and do not even know what is actually inside the 2 holes in the porcelain - all I can see is some rubber at the top and apparently a metal thread deeper down.

Many thanks,

Dave

 

[Harvest Fields]

Sometimes on these you have to lift the screw at the same time as unscrewing for it to be removed. Or use a junior hacksaw to cut through the screw. Once out you do not necessarily have to remove the black bungs from the toilet (unless you are fitting the same toilet seat, in Which case leave them there). Try using a flat head screw driver to push them all the way through. Job done

 

[DAVID CORKINDALE]

Thanks 'Harvest Fields' for your quick reply - I'll give it another try today!

 

[DAVID CORKINDALE]

Job done - Thread closed. After a further struggle I had to bring out the angle grinder to slice the head off the screw. I was then able to push the residual rubber and metal into the void below the 2 holes in the porcelain. Thanks again for the help.