Black Tank starting to leak

[tnsteele]

I have a small leak at my black water holding tank valve. When I set up the MH and take the cover off the connection to the sewer I find about a tablespoon of black tank fluid. Now the valve itself is starting to slowly drip at the black tank valve pull. I assume that I will have to replace the valve. I can anticipate the need for flushing it really clean and the part is readily available but I would like a heads up as to any surprise problems. Are there any other fixes (lube etc.) that may fix this without becoming a smelly messy plumber like my grandfather. I'm not knocking plumbers but I certainly don't want to go there if I can help it. Thanks

[wardy]

It's not nearly as bad a job as it seems to replace the valve. Once the tank is flushed and the valve is left in the open position until it no-longer drips you're ready to replace. It's just four bolt's. If you want to delay the replacement you can lightly scrub the valve seal and then lube with Vaseline. But if you replace you can forget about for a few years.

[Renden]

Just changed my grey and black tank Valterra valves last week because of some drip that came from the grey tank (which cannot be flushed like the black tank). After a good flushing with dawn (black tank) and a full flush of the grey tank, let both valves open and cleaned whatever water was left and both new valves were Vaselined prior to installation and some rear bolts were a little hard tro get but with proper tools, everything went well

[BFlinn181]

You can't fix a leak with lube. As already said, the whole valve assembly can be changed out with 4 bolts/screws. Silicon spray on the metal pull rod helps loosen that up. Pouring a cup or more of vegetable oil in the empty tank can help lube the slide valve. I wouldn't use vaseline as it is petroleum based and could swell the seals. The grey tank can be flushed by running water down any drain connected to it. To clean tanks, use the GEO method, https://sites.google.com/site/cbruni/ drive around a bit to slosh it up the sides of the tanks and then drain and flush. Calgon Water Softener powder is available on Amazon with free shipment for a double order. (4 boxes)

[Magic]

Tnsteele,

I've changed 2, one in a new to me Class C that was stuck closed (Don't even ask), and one on my five year old that started to leak.

After experiencing both, being able to flush first was the best way. As long as you can see and get to the 4 bolts, it's a snap

Good Luck ................................