How to Improve Access to Black and Gray Water Drain Valve
Updated 07/09/2019 | Published 07/07/2019
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Question:
We just got a ‘16 Salem 31qbts about 2 months ago. We love the camper but my one gripe is where the black/gray tank empties is way underneath the camper. I practically have to get on my hands and knees, plus a shoulder to to hook up. I haven’t been able to find any modifications for this. Is it possible to relocate the connection point closer to the edge of the camper? For whatever reason I can only attach one picture but I have more if needed.
asked by: Andy D
Expert Reply:
Thank you for the photo of the black/grey water drain valve on your Forest River Salem 31QBTS travel trailer. I see what you mean about this being well under the trailer and not located for convenient access.
Sometimes the presence of slide out mechanisms or other RV features can limit the placement options for the waste valve. RV makers might choose to keep the drain well under the trailer to avoid a nasty problem were it to leak while you're driving. (Consider what would happen if a leak occurred near or on a spinning tire!).
We do have short hoses like the 3-foot RhinoFLEX RV Sewer Hose # CAM39768 which is probably about the right length to reach closer to the outside of the RV. The only thing about using a hose like this is that it is not going to be as tough as the actual PVC piping and it could be possible for road debris to damage the hose. You would also have to find a way to securely mount the outside end of the hose to some point on the trailer.
The better solution is going to be re-plumbing the piping. You could remove the existing double valve, add pipe elbows and extensions to reach closer to the outside of the trailer and then mount a new valve like # T80. A local RV service shop should have the pipe, adhesive and valve you need. There is no single item solution to do what you're looking for, sorry to say. It will be a good idea to first check with Forest River (using your VIN) for guidance on making this modification.
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Double RV Waste Valves - Elbow - Rotating - (2) 3" Hubs to 3" Lug
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- Double Waste Valve
- 3 Inch Valve Body
- Manual
- 3 Inch Hub
- Rotating Valve
- Valterra
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