Suggestions for Black and Gray Tank Releases

[RKassl]

Our new 2015 3440RL from day one did not have the easiest valve handles for the black and gray tank the ones in the convenience center. Very tough to open, last year I think they simply greased them but since I am coming out of warranty at the end of the month, I was wondering if there are some "suggestions" I can give them on a good permanent fix. I think these valve handles work on some sort of cable connection. Any ideas I could give the service people from your experiences?

Thanks

[dieselguy]

I don't know of any "permanent fix" unless you install electric solenoid valves. Sometimes the cables are routed in too tight a bend radius, sometimes the 4 bolts on the valve body where the knife slides are too tight, sometimes the seal in the valve body gets folded over itself. Lubing the end where the t handles are is just that "lubing the ends" as due to common routing, the oil will never flow the entire cable distance to the knife end. There are some motorcycle cable adaptors that go over the cable and allow pressurized oil to be shot farther down into the cables. Some use liquid Calgon or alternate lube additives poured in the tanks to help lube the knifes. Some install a straight handle pull below the convenience center if design allows. It's like small RV's that have the exposed tanks with the handles right on the valve itself.

[1retired06]

You can search previous post I provided. I deinstalled all four of my cable operated flush valves and replaced with threaded rod pulls, all of which I can open and close with my little finger. Does require bit of plumbing reroute, and relocation of the handle locations. Nothing too difficult however, since I was able to do it. I am done with those *&% cable systems.

[bigskyjimmy]

Here is your answer http://www.amazon.com/Valterra-TC372...in+waste+valve ,I just did this 2 weeks ago and it pulls so smooth a Baby could pull it with it's baby finger should have done this a long time ago what a difference only mod you have to do to the new valve is clip off 2 of the tabs with the holes in them because it will not fit with those added 4 tabs they put on it and also throw the extra bracket they give you away you will not need it..no big deal what is cool is well is if down the road the cable ever breaks you can just buy a new cable for cheap

[jcurtis934]

Yep, going to go bigskyjimmy's route as well. My tanks were really hard to operate as well from new. Did dump cooking oil in tank to lube...temp help. Did use silicone fluid down the cable after taking it out of the center and elevating as high as possible. That worked well till this year and a repeat hasn't cured my black tank valve. Since I have to drop the front belly to do any real work anyway...it is time to replace the whole works. John