Community Forums

Upinsmoke · 06-08-2016, 01:54 AM

We just purchased a 2015 Itasca 35F and the fresh water tank drain valve is STUCK. Any suggestions for unsticking it? I've sprayed in with penetrating lube (where the handle meets the valve) and was considering the use of a heat gun on low/medium. If all else fails, where do I find information on valve replacement? Does it have to be the same type of valve or can I use a regular plumbing valve?

Also, any suggestions for searching the forums for this type of information? I can't seem to get the hang of it.

Thanks,

thunderjet · 06-08-2016, 02:45 AM

Stuck open or closed?

If open, just add new valve after stuck valve.

Look at skirt of the handle it may have stops, 90 degrees apart you can only move handle between the stops. be sure you are turning handle the right way.

Removing the handle may allow a wrench to be used turning the stem both ways. If it is a plastic handle there may be a cap that needs to be broken out to expose the handle retaining screw.

Sometimes just cutting it out and starting over is easier then fighting with a crappy valve. You do not have to use the same type of valve.

Good luck TJ

Ray,IN · 06-08-2016, 09:43 PM

Does your fresh water tank drain valve look something like this?

This is a cable-operated valve used by Winnebago industries. When We bought our MH the cables were all corroded inside the sheathing. I had to spray penetrating oil on the cable next to the handle so it would run down the cable and loosen the corrosion. Too about a week, but it finally loosened the cables up enough to move. Further soaking made them operate normally.

FreedomDream · 06-09-2016, 02:26 PM

Most plumbing parts can be found at Lowes and Home Depot. Take some measurements and take a few photos of the stuck valve on you cell phone and take your phone to Lowes or Home Depot and see if you can find the part. You will also find help from the plumbing guy there.

Upinsmoke · 06-10-2016, 01:35 AM

Thanks all. The problem was solved by the aforementioned application of penetrating lube and the fact that I threatened the valve with the use of the heat gun.

Since we purchased the RV in FL and the owners didn't use it regularly, it may have had a little salt water corrosion in it. Thanks again.

FreedomDream · 06-10-2016, 11:45 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Upinsmoke

Thanks all. The problem was solved by the aforementioned application of penetrating lube and the fact that I threatened the valve with the use of the heat gun.

Since we purchased the RV in FL and the owners didn't use it regularly, it may have had a little salt water corrosion in it. Thanks again.

I'll have to remember to threaten my rig next time it acts up. I'll get a BIG heat gun!