Yeah, those universal kits can be a real headache. I’ve had more luck with OEM parts too—less fiddling around, and you know they’ll fit the way they’re supposed to. One thing I’d add: always double-check that the flush valve seal is sitting flat and hasn’t picked up any grit or debris. Even a tiny bit can mess with the half flush.
If you’re swapping out parts, I’d recommend turning off the water supply and draining the tank completely before you start. Makes it way easier to spot if something’s catching, like that lip inside the tank you mentioned. Also, watch out for overtightening anything plastic—those brackets and nuts can crack if you go too hard, and then you’re back at square one.
I’ve found sometimes just loosening the button housing a touch helps with cable tension issues. It’s weirdly sensitive... almost like there’s no perfect setting, just “good enough for now.” Anyway, patience seems to be key with these things.
Honestly, I’ve never trusted those “one size fits all” kits either. Half the time, the cable tension is just off, or the button gets stuck halfway down. Did you check if the float’s catching on anything? Sometimes there’s a little ridge in the tank that messes with it. I’ve also seen cases where the seal looks fine but it’s warped just enough to leak—especially with cheaper aftermarket stuff. Ever tried swapping in a new seal just to rule it out? It’s a pain, but sometimes that’s all it takes. The whole “good enough for now” thing feels way too familiar...
I hear you on the “one size fits all” thing—it’s never actually true, is it? I put in one of those universal dual flush kits last year because I wanted to save water, but the half flush almost never works right. I keep wondering if it’s just the mechanics or if my old tank just isn’t compatible. Did you notice any difference with certain brands, or are they all kind of hit or miss? Sometimes I wonder if it’s just better to stick with the original parts, even if they aren’t the most eco-friendly...
I get what you’re saying about “universal” kits—half the time they just end up being a pain. But honestly, I’ve actually had the opposite experience in a couple of my older rentals. The dual flush worked way better than the original setup, especially with tenants who were pretty heavy-handed with the handle. I think a lot of it comes down to how well you install and tweak them—sometimes you have to really mess with the float or chain length to get that half flush working right.
About this bit:
Sometimes I wonder if it’s just better to stick with the original parts, even if they aren’t the most eco-friendly...
I get where you’re coming from, but sticking with old parts can be more hassle long-term. Those old flappers and valves wear out faster, at least in my experience, and then you’re dealing with leaks or phantom flushes anyway. Not saying every universal kit is perfect, but sometimes it’s worth trying a different brand or even a model made specifically for your tank size. It’s not always a lost cause, even if it takes a couple tries.
I think a lot of it comes down to how well you install and tweak them—sometimes you have to really mess with the float or chain length to get that half flush working right.
That’s been my experience too. Getting the chain just right is weirdly finicky—too tight and it won’t seal, too loose and you barely get a flush. I’ve found some tanks just don’t play nice with “universal” parts, no matter how much you adjust. Sometimes it’s worth spending a bit more for a kit made specifically for your brand/model. Saves a lot of trial and error in the long run.