Rusted bolts, very likely. But before you start your job I would like
to suggest a new modern alternative to the wax ring which will leak if
the toilet ever moves. The new method is made of PVC with a rubber lip
at the top and two O-rings on the bottom. I know that Lowes sells them
but they are not on the top shelf like wax rings. They are a few more
dollars expensive but it's worth it. They can even be reused.



Frank J Warner wrote:
Toilet is at least 25 years old. One of the good ones, with big tank
and lots of flushing power. Sits on a concrete slab floor, vinyl tile.
Never had a problem with it beyond a few minor leaks, replacing the
float & fill mechanism, etc. Rarely clogged.

So, the other day, I accidentally bumped against it and it MOVED a good
half inch on the floor.

I checked the flange bolts and they are loose as can be. I can actually
pick the bowl up about 1/4 inch off the floor and set it back down. I
haven't taken the bolt covers off yet, so I don't know exactly what the
problem might be.

Going to HD on my lunch hour to get a new wax ring and flange kit. Will
fix this weekend. But I'm curious about how something that has been so
secure for so long can suddenly start to move around like this.

-Frank