New toilet holes don't match old holes

[RichHog]

Bought a new Thetford cause I thought it was a plug and play to mount. But the new one has holes at the 9:00 & 3:00 position but the old positions are more like 11:00 and 5:00. Does the bottom ring need to be replaced or unscrewed and rotated? Screws are rusted on it and don't want to attempt anything til I know. Looks like some of the other Thetford models have removable bottom rings that can be adjusted.
Thanks

[FLYNCLD]

The bolts that come up from the bottom ring should be able to be moved to the correct position. They should have a large flange head that sits in slots in the ring, and can be repositioned as needed? You may need to loosen the nut that holds them in position, and yes they are likely to be rusty!

[RichHog]

The slots that the fit in are about a 1/2 inch long. One looks rusted out and the bold is still attached to it but spins. But they still are about 30 degrees off from where the holes are located on the new toilet. Do I just remove the 8 very rusted screws on the flange and rotate it? Probably would buy a new one as the rust factor on one bolt slot?

[FLYNCLD]

Most of the flanges I have seen don't use bolts to hold them to the tank...they thread into an opposing flange. Sounds like yours might be different. You might want to post a photo, or wait for someone else with the right answer to chime in.

[RichHog]

It has about 8 screws that hold it in, then there are the 2 slotted holes for the two bolts that mount the toilet with the heads under the the slotted part

[RichHog]

Here is a pic of what it looks like

[eubank]

Seems like you can remove the six rusted screws, rotate the ring, and screw back down. I'd recommend some kind of no-rust screws (brass, stainless, whatever) as replacements.

You can also get new riser bolts from the hardware store. If needed (and I did need them), you can also get extra long riser bolts. Made refitting the toilet a little easier.


Lynn

[RichHog]

So I attempted to remove screws but as I did it became evident the whole ring was rusted out, After half an hour it now is removed and all screws with it leaving the inner ring. Do I have to remove the inner ring (seal?) to be able to put a new outer ring in to finally mount my new toilet?

Thanks

[FLYNCLD]

About all I can recommend is that you head down to your local plumbing or RV supply (or both!), parts in hand and see what they've got. Based on what you can find to replace your parts, that will determine how you install it.