BAC Forum
General Boards => Technical Support => Topic started by: Robert Mielenz on January 31, 2023, 06:19:51 PM
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I have had an ongoing problem with sticky/non-functioning "Drain master" electric valves. I have replaced them multiple times, valves that work while at the repair station and then fail when I get home. The instructions say to not over tighten the valve. I remind the mechanic about the issue. The valve works fine testing it at the repair facility and then fails trying to use it a few days later. I then have to remove the cover from the water station and use the supplied manual key. As soon as I get the valve to move even slightly it works normally. I use valve lubricant and flush the tank every drop, but the problem re-appears shortly. Bend Beaver says they can replace the electric valves with manual valves for approximately $2,000. I understand owners that have made the conversion still have issues with the valve operation. I would appreciate any input re: the manual valves and other possible solutions to the sticky valve problem.
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I share your frustration. I replaced both of our coach's drain valves several years ago and have continued having a problem with opening them. So far, it has worked for me to work the electric rocker switch back and forth between OPEN and CLOSE while holding the switch in each position for no more than a second or so after hearing the sound of the moving valve. The lady at Drain Master warned me to not hold the switch in either the OPEN or CLOSE position for longer than about two seconds. Otherwise, you run the risk of overheating and burning out the valve motor. As I said, so far by pressing the electric switch back and forth, sometimes as many as ten or more times, I have been successful in getting the valves to open and close. Once I get the valves to move, it seems they will operate properly if again used within a few days or a week.
Another trick I use is to put about a quart of cheap cooking oil into both tanks to lubricate the valves when the coach will be sitting for weeks or months without being used.
As you pointed out, overtightening the four bolts on the valves will make the motor have to work harder to open/close the valves. I know I overtightened mine just a bit when installing them.
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Robert,
Try opening the valves with engine running or when plugged in. The higher voltage helps get the valve motor moving easier. Hope this helps.
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I'm usually plugged in. I measured 12v at the switch. Thanks for the come back.
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On our 06PT I changed one of our valves to a manual but kept the other as electric. The manual valve is availble from many suppliers try Amazon server drain gate valve they will cost 20-30 dollars and very EZ to change youself . When I sold our 06PT I did pull the manual unit and installed the electric very EZ and maybe [$30.00)