dpgllg wrote:
I have 3 dump valves operated by cables. I've tried searching for how to maintain and lubricate them but haven't found much information.
What should I be doing to maintain them and what products should I be using? The pull handles are accessed through the front drivers side compartment below my Nautilus P1 water controls.
Thanks!
Dave
Years ago, trailer dump valves used to be mounted "externally" somewhere on the drain pipe/s - no cables. Easy access, easy to replace.
A cable means it's under the RV - not a fun job to replace!
However, *usually* the cable is the problem - not the valve.
The mfgrs do a poor (lousy!) job of routing the cables!
After years of use - pushing & pulling the handle/s, the cable (inside the sheath) may develop "slack" and/or a kink. Lube won't fix that.
Follow the cable from the handle to the valve. Look for excessive bends, etc. Is it binding? Have someone operate the pull handle for you. Watch the valve open and close - and how the cable "reacts".
The valve *may* be bad - solution = replace it, but it can be a real "PITA" (been there done that).
Skip the lube efforts! Try replacing *just* the cable before doing the valve - it's *not* expensive! Check Valterra (on Amazon) for parts.
If that solves the problem, you have saved yourself a LOT of grief!
BTW - (on edit) - Valterra makes an "twist-on" valve to attach to the end of the 3" drain. About $15. Handy temp fix when the "main" valve fails (hopefully in the open position).
Good luck!
.