Black & Grey holding tank valves

[lmccown]

I have a 2005 Open road 31 ft and would like to replace the holding tank valves. Can this be done by a novice? They seem really hard to open and close.

[joeprinter]

Chuck&Gail wrote:
Before you do that, IMHO try this first.

Empty both tanks. Then spray half a can of silicone spray up the discharge pipe while operating valve. Put a squirt or two on the rod also. Repeat for second valve. Bet it fixes it.

Thanks Chuck, I will try this, just this week, broke 1/2 of the tee, just a matter of time.. Really hard to close.

[Chuck_Gail]

Before you do that, IMHO try this first.

Empty both tanks. Then spray half a can of silicone spray up the discharge pipe while operating valve. Put a squirt or two on the rod also. Repeat for second valve. Bet it fixes it.

[lanerd]

Good to know Bob.. thanks

Ron

[Big_Katuna]

Vaseline is a petroleum product and will damage the material.
Valterra the manufacturer recommends silicone grease sold at pool supply stores.

[skipnchar]

I've replaced a few while on the road. Takes about 15 to 20 minutes and very basic tools. Of course you'll ALSO need a dump station so don't try it at a campsite.

[lanerd]

I just replaced both of mine this past winter and it really wasn't very difficult. It helps if you have sufficient area to be able to "pull" the two drain pipes apart by a 1/2 inch or so. I didn't and had to remove one of the pipes from its connection to the tank.

As mentioned, use vaceling or grease on the gaskets. I had mine all back together and realized that one of them had dropped out.

Ron

[lmccown]

Thanks for your help.

[enblethen]

Yes, an easy job.
Check for size of grey water drain. They vary.
The majority of the black tanks are 3 inch.
They use 1/4 on grey and 5/16 bolts on black.
Make sure tanks are empty. remove bolts, four on each valve. Remove old valve. New valve goes in reverse. Good to coat seals with vaseline or the like to hold in place while assembling.