Dump Vlave Question

[24Laughs]

Just got a 2009 Cougar 278rks. When I went to dump the first time, it seemed like the valves were not closed. Filled two 5 gal buckets before it slowed dwon enough to get the dump hose on. Drained forever and kept on slowly draining even with the valves closed ????

[Festus2]

On this model, you should have 3 holding tanks and 3 dump pull valves. It would appear that, from your description, one or more of the valves is not closing completely. I might try pouring a couple of buckets of water into one tank at a time, let it sit for a while, then see if any water has leaked out of that tank valve. Do the same for each of the tanks and you should be able to determine which tank valves are leaking.

It could be that something is caught in the valve seat, your seals might have dried out and split, or some other mechanical failure in the valve itself.

If you can't determine which tank valve(s) are not closing properly and can't repair the offending valve, you might try adding a Valterra Twist-On Valve at the end of 4" line (where you remove the cap). This will allow you to slowly drain whatever is left in the lines so that it doesn't all come gushing out when you take the cap off). You can get them from CW or at most RV Parts retailers.

[hankaye]

24Laughs, Howdy;

It may be that the valve seals have dryed out. Can occour when they sit for a time with zero wet stuff and from not being used (exercised).
You may need to replace them, or ... disassemble and lube with a silicone based lubricant.
Should you choose to re-place;

http://www.valterra.com/RV/rv-main.htm

hankaye

PS. My RV is same as yours, only 1 Model year older, front to back I have Gray (shower & lavy), Black, then the smaller 1 1/2" is the kitchen.
When I dump the tanks I usually toss 2 caps full of downey fabric softner down the bowl with 2 bowls of water. the fabric softner will "slick up" the valve's seal, and slick the tanks interior as it fills. Helps keep "things" moving and covers the foul oder nicely.

[24Laughs]

Thanks for the advise. Proves I'm truely a newbee. Didn't know I had three tanks. I found the kitchen valve not fully closed. Problem solved. I'll try the fabric softener.