Close up photo of a Coachmen RV bathroom window.

Swapping out your Coachmen RV toilet isn’t as tough as you might think. If you’ve got a cracked bowl, a constant leak, or you just want something comfier, we’re here to help. This guide from our team at Cheyenne Camping Center in Walcott, Iowa, breaks down every step so you can tackle this project with confidence.

Essential Tools and Materials for Replacing an RV Toilet

Good prep work makes all the difference, so ensure you have the right tools ready before you start. Grab an adjustable wrench set for water lines and mounting hardware, a tape measure for flange-to-wall distance, and a putty knife for old sealant. You’ll also need Phillips and flathead screwdrivers, pliers, and safety gloves.

Make sure you choose a toilet that fits your RV’s space and plumbing, and that you’ve selected the right seals and flanges to complete the job. Always use flexible wax-free foam seals in RVs — never beeswax seals, as those are for houses only. Many Coachmen owners like XQIQX replacement flange kits for Dometic toilets, which cost about $12. We recommend using brass bolts, as they last the longest, and ensuring you have plenty of thread seal tape or plumber’s putty to stop leaks.

Finally, stock up on towels, rags, and newspaper to catch spills and protect your floors. A bucket helps with water drainage, and a flashlight lets you spot problems in dark corners. Bring a level for proper alignment and a toilet brush for cleaning components. Preparing properly will prevent unnecessary trips to the hardware store once work is underway and help you avoid mistakes that might damage your RV’s plumbing.

Removing the Old RV Toilet

For your safety, empty the holding tanks completely, turn off the water pump and supply, and then flush the drain lines. Lay towels around your work area, as water always escapes. Scrub the toilet before disassembly for cleaner work and better visibility.

Once you’re ready to get the old toilet out, carefully disconnect the water line and remove the bolt caps. Most RV toilets attach with just two bolts, so this part’s pretty straightforward. If yours has a decorative base cover, take that off to reach the mounting hardware. Loosen the flange bolts gently — don’t force them or you might crack something important. When it’s time to lift the toilet away, use your legs, not your back. These things can be surprisingly heavy.

With the toilet removed, you can throw away the old flange seal and scrub everything thoroughly. Take a good look at the flange, as any cracks or damage now will cause problems later. Pull out the old bolts and wipe down the whole area. If there are stuck bolts or damaged flanges, it may be better to call in a professional. Better to get help than risk expensive floor or plumbing repairs. While you’ve got access, it’s also a good idea to check your black water tank for any issues.

Installing the New RV Toilet

Before you replace your RV toilet, double-check everything fits. Measure from the center of your floor flange to the wall to ensure your new toilet fits the space. Check cabinet clearances and door swing too. While most Thetford and Dometic models work interchangeably in Coachmen RVs, you should always verify sizes and mounting specs. Some brands need their own specific seals and bolts, so don’t assume universal fit. If you need specific parts, United RV Parts stocks 42 different toilet accessories, including 17 Dometic products and 21 from Thetford – plenty of options to finish your job right.

Installation follows seven basic steps:

  1. Clean the flange and toilet base thoroughly.
  2. Install the new flexible-foam flange seal.
  3. Slide the hold-down bolts into place.
  4. Position your toilet carefully over the flange. Getting this alignment right prevents leaks and wobbles.
  5. Secure everything with nuts and washers, but be careful not to overtighten them, which could crack the porcelain.
  6. Hook up the water line with any adapters needed, then turn your water back on.
  7. Flush a few times and check for leaks around every connection.

Troubleshooting and Maintenance Tips

Even perfect installations sometimes have hiccups. If you’re installation hasn’t gone to plan, consider the following:

  • Leaks around the base: Adjust your seal or loosen the over-tightened bolts.
  • Wobbly toilet: Check for level installation or tighten the mounting.
  • Rocking toilet: This usually points to deeper issues, such as broken flanges, damaged flooring, or loose mounting screws.
  • No water connection: You might need different adapters, especially if you switched brands.
  • No water after flushing: Replace the blade seal that sits at the bottom of the bowl and keeps the water in.
  • Water running nonstop: Replace the valve on the back of your toilet.

Good habits prevent toilet troubles. Here are some top toilet maintenance tips:

  • Clean your toilet with RV-specific products, and fix small issues early.
  • Maintain seals routinely, especially during winter storage, and replace any worn seals before they fail.
  • Don’t overtighten flange bolts during checkups, and verify part compatibility.
  • Seek professional help if you have cracked flanges, rusted bolts, persistent leaks, or tank damage.

Expert RV Toilet Replacement Services in Iowa

DIY toilet replacement is achievable with patience and prep work, but sometimes it makes sense to call a professional. Our team at Cheyenne Camping Center understands the quirks of Coachmen systems and has years of experience solving problems you may not recognize. We also have specialty tools and parts not available at your local hardware store. What matters most is getting your Coachmen RV back to full comfort for your next adventure. If you need expert guidance on toilet replacement or other maintenance for your Coachmen, contact us today.

Barely Used Large Coachmen Trailer! by Mehmet Ergun is licensed with CC BY 2.0