Dump valve replacement

[wbmiller3]

The dump valve for the toilet (the valve under the trailer) started leaking this last trip. In other words, when I pull the valve handle under the toilet, fluid starts dripping out of the dump pipe even though the dump valve is closed.
This means that the trailer drips a bit from fold-down to the dump station, and I'd like to avoid that.
It looks like there are 4 bolts holding in this dump valve so perhaps it isn't too difficult to replace. Has anyone ever done this?

 

[Bill]

My experience is that the metal slider in the valve can snag a rubber gasket seal in the valve body, and deform it. I've also heard (but not seen) that the metal blade can snag itself on the plastic body, and deform.

The blade slides in a shallow plastic "slab", and is sealed against a pair of circular rubber gaskets. You can buy a replacement slab with new slider and seal gaskets. As you suggested, remove the 4 nuts/bolts, slide out the old slab with the handle, slide the new slab in its place, and button it up.

You can save a few bucks and buy the replacement gaskets alone. However, just in case the edge of the blade is nicked or bent, the complete new valve "slab" with new seals costs not much more, and makes replacement quicker, easier, and cleaner.

When I did mine, I seem to recall that I wiped a bit of silicone grease (not regular petroleum grease) on the sliding surfaces. The blade slid a bit easier across the seals, but I have no idea if it increased longevity.

 

[wbmiller3]

Thanks! Great information.