Troubleshooting An RV Waste Valve Gate That Is Not Opening When The Actuator Is Pulled

Question:

2009 Keystone Montana M3400RL 10th Anniversary LE Tank refuses to drain. I’ve tried everything. The cable pulls and the attaching block slides back and fourth. The cable is not limp. Is there any chance that the internal connection to the gate valve is broken and the valve is stuck closed? This P/N valve looks like what I need less the cable which I do not need except the cable attaching block does not have the surrounding housing. I hope I explained that in a way you can understand what I mean. Thanks!!!!!

asked by: Pete

Expert Reply:

It is completely within the realm of possibilities that the actuator has become disconnected from the gate internally causing the valve to not open. The Valterra Waste Valve Body for RV Black Water Tank w/ Coupler, Seals, and Hardware - 3" Diameter # T1003PBC you were looking at will mount with four bolts allowing you to easy swap out the old valve and install this new one. An example of this valve attaching to other fittings using four bolts would be the # T50A.

I recommend just replacing the old valve with the # T1003PBC. You can try to cut into the actuator housing get to the gate and possibly pull it with some needle-nose pliers to get it open so that you can drain the tank and give it a rinse before taking the valve off for replacement.

expert reply by: Kevin C

Peter C.

11/17/2021

Thanks! I’m seriously hoping we are correct. I’m going to order the T1003PBC valve and do just what you said. Grind my way in and pull that gate. If this is the case and I get it drained and flushed 80 million times, I’ll replace the valve, leave it permanently open and attach a twist on gate at the dump. It just seems much easier that way. Or, is there a blank valve body available to take the place of the valve? I could install it, and be done with the cable valve all together. Thanks!! Pete

Les D.

11/23/2021

@PeterC We would recommend replacing the cable valve. I keeps the rest of the line (down to where your sewer hose goes) empty which could otherwise have some problems in freezing weather. Besides, we do not have a blank fitting other than what you suggested about leaving it open.