The dump valve on my recently purchase '61 Bambi is non-functioning. The valve is controlled from the rear by a square rod that rotates and, I assume, rotates the valve from a closed to open position. Looking up at the valve from underneath the trailer, it appears that the working end of the actuator rod is missing or has eroded away. The rod rotates in place but isn't attached to the valve. Any suggestions for fixing it?
Im probably pretty close by your location ,so If you wish I can come by and give your trailer a look ,may have parts to help you out as well .I will Pm you
right away .
As I recall, this valve is unique. Your dump connection is straight down, right? If you can get the four screws out that hold the down pipe, you can get to the valve parts. However, the only time I tried this the screws were basically corroded in place.
I think AirstreamGypsy knows the details of this valve design. You might PM her to see what she's done with her valve.
The dump valve on my recently purchase '61 Bambi is non-functioning. The valve is controlled from the rear by a square rod that rotates and, I assume, rotates the valve from a closed to open position. Looking up at the valve from underneath the trailer, it appears that the working end of the actuator rod is missing or has eroded away. The rod rotates in place but isn't attached to the valve. Any suggestions for fixing it?
I believe you will find a "brass" valve.
Parts or replacements have not been available for 30 years or more.
It can be removed and a current style dump valve fitting can be fiberglassed in place. From there, you can used a couple of different valves, depending on what you want to do.
It's quite possible that when you rotated the actuator rod, you unscrewed the valve stem from the valve gate.
Try pushing the rod in while rotating it anti-clockwise. After a few turns it should re-engage the gate. Next, try pulling the rod straight out. It may take a good deal of force if it has not been opened in several years.
If that doesn't work, loosen the packing nut, remove the rod, and take off the valve bonnet. Then you can try to pry the gate out. Use some warm soapy water to loosen the crud around the gate.
If that doesn't work, use a torch to warm the valve and try unscrewing the valve from the bottom of the tank. Chance of success without removing the tank is less than 30%. Protect the tank from heat.
There are pictures of the disassembled valve in my photo album. Parts are available.
I removed the access panel from underneath the trailer and discovered that, indeed, the valve is not rotated by the connecting rod, but is pulled open by it. I successfully freed the gate and the valve is now functional. Thank you for your help.
Forums member wagsrp has posted pictures and a thread on repair of this valve. This was helpful to me on understanding how this valve works and how it can be repaired.
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Rick, JJ, Tommy, and Will
1961 26' Overlander International Land Yacht
WBCCI #9275
"So, why do we drive on a parkway and park on a driveway?"
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I removed the access panel from underneath the trailer and discovered that, indeed, the valve is not rotated by the connecting rod, but is pulled open by it. I successfully freed the gate and the valve is now functional. Thank you for your help.
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