Sealand 510 toilet-problem?

[rbp111]

I have a 2003 fifth-wheel which has a Sealand 510 toilet. I have had the seal kit replaced or replaced it myself four (4) times in the 12 years I have owned it. And the toilet will not hold water despite cleaning it out, shooting water in all the crevices, using the plastic wand to clean out the gunk between the seal and the ball.

Now it won't hold water again. Should I replace the toilet bowl flush ball and shaft along with the seal kit? Or am I missing something? How long has the replacing of the seals lasted in other toilets? Our use has increased over the past two years where we are out almost 6 months. Prior to that it was 3-4 months of use. The cost is about $100 for the parts and I am willing to do it myself (if it is worth it).

[westend]

Any petroleum based grease or oil (like Vaseline) will cause a rubber seal to swell. Initially, that will result in a better seal and may extend an older seal's life. After time, the seal will expand so much that it will cause a failure if continually moved. Plumber's grease is a better option for rubber seals.

FWIW, my Aquamagic seal leaks by also but doesn't effect the operation and I notice no odors getting past.

[ScottG]

Let me ask you this, does it really matter?
I ask because ours has become intermittent over the last three years about holding water but it doesn't smell or cause any other issues when the water drains out.
So I haven't bothered to fix it.

[Dave_H_M]

I use plumbers grease on mine. It works with the grease, It does not without it.

[therink]

I don't have the same toilet as you but every few months mine stops holding water too. I simply coat the ball seal with petroleum jelly and it holds water. I think the seal just needs to have a coating on it to keep it sticky which helps it Form a good seal.

[edatlanta]

I full time and have a Thetford toilet. I have literally worn out the flush mechanism on 2 toilet in this time. I installed the second replacement about 3 months ago. I don't believe these toilets are designed for full time use and just wear out. I won't fight replacing parts on them again. I will change a ball seal, but that is about it. New one every time = Much less hassle.