Toilets, Sinks, Showers, Tubs and Disposals - toilet flange problem

My toilet flange is turned so that the slotted holes are positioned with the big portion of slotted holes parallel to the back wall . When I would install the bolts into the toilet they would just pull through the flange. Just another reason I have had leaks. I do not know why the flange was installed this way but thats what I have. I think I have to replace the flange which is not something I know how to do. The flange has a metal ring on the outside and is black plastic on the inside about 3'' dia hole. If there is a way to use the flange the way is is positioned I am willing to try. Otherwise I need to know how to get the old flange off. can someone help me please.

Two questions. Are the slotted holes in the metal ring? Is the metal ring attached to the flange with screws going into the floor? My thinking, since I cannot see what you have, is that you may have a Super Ring mounted on the original flange. If so, you could remove the screws holding it down and turn the ring so that the slotted holes are in the correct position. Good luck and let us know what you have.

I think I have a standard flange. The metal flange is not adjustable. The big end of the 2 slots where you install the toilet mounting bolts (1/4 x 2 1/4 brass) is parallel to the back wall. If there was a way to turn the flange a couple of degrees so I could then posistion the bolts into the slots where they should be @ 12'' from the wall into the slots it would work just fine.
If I snug the nuts on to the bolts where they need to be located for the toilet to fit they skew over and try to pop out of the flange because the bolts are not in the slots the way they should be. Does this explain it better?

The metal flange should be screwed to the floor in several places. Unscrew all of the screws and you should be able to rotate that metal ring to the correct position, and then rescrew it to the floor.
If that doesn't work, try to upload a photo.

One thing you MAY be able to do rather than having to cut off the old flange. Go to the link below and go down to the 13th flange shown. It is the Super Flange I mentioned before. The small holes around the edges are to screw it to the floor. That way you could put the slotted holes in the correct position. I believe they sell these at Home Centers. You could look at one there and see if it will work for you. Best thing I can think of. Good luck.

http://doityourself.com/shop/closetflanges.htm

I have replaced the sub floor it is still 3/4'' to the bottom of the flange. I still have to install backer and tile and that should get me to the bottom of the flange. There are no screws in it at this time. Ill go take a picture and see if I can send it. Mabey that flange is just stuck I don't know. We'll see what the picture tells us. Thanks,
--Dan--

I took photo of the flange now have in computer. Can I post here. I tried to copy paste but no luck. Anyone no how to send A photo.
Thanks.
--Dan--

You have to go to a site like Photobucket and turn the picture into a link and then include the link in your post. Photobucket is free.

http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e293/buzz952/beltsander034.jpg

I hope this doesn't seem stupid but, have you tried to move the flange around? Take a screwdriver or chisel and put it in the small end of the slot and tap it. I do not believe that the ring is attached to the plastic. It may have some gunk holding it in place.

I tried to move it but I was afraid of breaking it. Ill put the heat gun to it tomorrow and see if I can budge it. That would be really cool if it moves. I sure hope your right. Thank you very much. bed time
--Dan--

I tapped it wi hammer & screwdriver, no move. I heated it and tapped on it wi hammer & screwdriver, no move. Got it hotter and beat it with a bigger hammer and screwdriver it moved. Hurray!
Thank you majakdragon & fixitron.

I refer to those flanges as "companion flanges". Glad it moved for you. Don't forget to follow the instructions printed on the plastic that states "this must be secured to the floor". If you do not screw it down, it will put pressure on the piping when you tighten down the bolts and could break the pipe.