Black Tank Blade Valve Not Working

Updated 04/23/2021 | Published 04/22/2021

Question:

Hi, I have a ‘15 R-Pod 178. The black tank is full and the handle to empty it won’t engage to open. It slides back and forth but the stopper I side won’t slide open. Does the handle thread into something? Someone told me it was a ball and socket at the end of the ha doe that has come undone. Either way, I can’t empty the tank. Suggestions? Thanks for any help.

asked by: Jiordana

Expert Reply:

I can't be sure how the end of the rod at the blade of the valve is attached. If the handle and rod we can see turn freely, then I would turn the rod clockwise to see if you can get it to thread into something. I am going to guess that yanking on that T-handle for the past few years has broke that end off.

The real issue here is the fact that the blank tank is full. You are going to be replacing this valve so there is no loss for cracking it open. I would put your sewer hose on and have it connected to your household sewer clean out pipe, or use a waste tote. The using a dremel tool, or oscillating cutter tool, open up the square body housing where the blade would be if the valve were open. From there you may be able to actuate the blade valve with a pair of pliers or such. Needle nose vice grips would be perfect.

You can then use the Camco # CAM39513 waste valve.

expert reply by: Les D