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Old 01-14-2021, 07:46 PM   #1
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Black Water Tank Sensors

I will be replacing the sensors in my black water tank. Suggestions on the best way to remove the underbelly covering and how to replace it? At least I am guessing that is where my black water tank is located in my Crossroads fifth wheel...
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Old 01-14-2021, 07:50 PM   #2
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Old 01-15-2021, 08:46 AM   #3
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Most RVs I have seen you don't need to remove underbody anything. The sensors are on the side of the tank. And, most of the time it's not the sensors, it's crud in the tank that is causing misreadings.

Might want to first really clean the tank (including powerwashing the interior with a jetter hose if really bad shape). Then take a look in your baggage compartments to locate the tank in question and the side (usually outboard side) to find the sensors and electrical connections.
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Old 01-15-2021, 11:36 AM   #4
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I have filled and cleaned the tank with the built in flush system 3 times, even used a tide laundry pod the last time. The panel shows all the E, 1/3 and 2/3's lights on when button pushed no matter if empty of full. I am assuming something happened on the way down to Texas from Missouri as they weren't on when I left home. Either something broke in the connections or ? Planned on getting a cleaning wand for the tank, but was advised that's it most likely a short or bad sensor...
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Old 01-15-2021, 11:44 AM   #5
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I'd save the money, you can remember when you last dumped the tanks an filled with water. Every rv I've owned has had this problem, no mater how well I'd clean them.
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Old 01-15-2021, 12:51 PM   #6
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Install SeaLevel sensor system which mounts outside the tank and uses the current wiring. Does take some time to install, but I have done it on 3 motor homes. Last time it took about 2 hours.
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Old 01-15-2021, 12:58 PM   #7
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My sensors are useless. I just keep the gray valve closed. When my shower won’t drain I know it’s time to dump. I always dump the black at the same time, dumping the black first then the gray second to rinse out the stinky slinky.
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Old 01-15-2021, 03:21 PM   #8
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After an inspection to see if I could figure a way into the black tank area, and not finding any access panels or any way in other than the under belly material. I sent Crossroads RV an email asking for information on location of sensors, etc. Got an email back, stating that the original Crossroads Rv was sold to another company and all records of previous built rigs was no longer available, do to being disposed of. So, guess I will wait until I get back home, and see what I can find with it parked there. I will partially fill the tank with clean water and soap before departing and then drain it at the first campground we stop at going home and see if it had any results. Thanks for the info and suggestions...
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Old 01-18-2021, 01:11 PM   #9
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As others have said, black water sensors rarely work properly Nature of the Beast unless your rig came with esoteric sensors. I'd also question putting any effort into making them accurate because the gray always fills much faster than the black. If you empty the black when the gray gets emptied you are fine. Most black tanks show you their level rather graphically when the toilet valve is open. Your black tank will also outlast your fresh water too.

On most modern rigs the tanks are visible when you remove the wet bay's cover plate. Most rigs...
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Old 01-20-2021, 12:02 PM   #10
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Well, I broke down and bought one of the wands that go down the toilet, used it this morning for about 10 minutes after I emptied the tank. It helped now I only have the E and 1/3 sensor lights on. So maybe after this tank fills, I will do it again and see if I can get all the gunk off the sensors.
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Old 01-21-2021, 07:22 AM   #11
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Personally I have never had sensors that work worth a darn. I just dump the black tank every Saturday. I leave the gray open. When we move I drop a laundry pod in the black tank. Maybe do it a couple moves in a row.
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Old 01-22-2021, 01:05 PM   #12
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Some RVs have a sensor adjustment. Mine are above each button. Perhaps yours are out of adjustment.
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Old 01-23-2021, 05:35 PM   #13
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Quote:
Originally Posted by ByeTheWay View Post
Some RVs have a sensor adjustment. Mine are above each button. Perhaps yours are out of adjustment.
No adjustment, just a panel with a bunch of lights and the fresh water pump switch...



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Old 01-23-2021, 09:25 PM   #14
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Quote:
Originally Posted by pddgm View Post
I have filled and cleaned the tank with the built in flush system 3 times, even used a tide laundry pod the last time. The panel shows all the E, 1/3 and 2/3's lights on when button pushed no matter if empty of full. I am assuming something happened on the way down to Texas from Missouri as they weren't on when I left home. Either something broke in the connections or ? Planned on getting a cleaning wand for the tank, but was advised that's it most likely a short or bad sensor...


Literally same boat except mine are practically new. Reading E when I left, but now reading up to 2/3. All before running any water or using any facilities.

I did drive through some heavy mud right before arriving at the campsite and it coated the outside and I’m assuming underbelly. Could mud on the outside of the tank cause misreadings?
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