We only use BRASS only no rusted bolts and possibly stainless washers and ONLY wing nuts. We DO add the larger FENDER washers under the head of the bolt and on top of the rubber washer. Helps distribute more of the pressure from the bolt to a larger area of the tank bottom. I wipe the finished threads with a thin coat of silicone grease to facilitate any future repairs/tightening. It also helps to silicone grease the large gasket to allow it to slip smoother and tighter into the ceramic flange hole. Enjoy that we are not alone with these problems. Have a special portable storage case with all of these parts. Oftentimes it's hard to find the brass washers, wing nuts etc. BUT the extra 2-3 bucks per repair prevents our family apartment units from many call backs over 40 years of service.