Black tank question.

[69bullet]

Hello all, we finally got our safari out last september for two different times. As of now I have to redo the water lines in the trailer. We used the trailer without plumbing last year. So water lines and sink hook up is no problem.

I need to be schooled on the black tank under the rear of the trailer. The trailer sat unused for 25yrs when we bought it, ive been working on it for 2yrs about. So my wife says she wants the toilet to work this year. Where do I start to see if the tank is still good. what connections do I need to the original outlet. Any pictures from others projects would help also.

[Belegedhel]

For a black tank, connections should be very simple: The toilet drains directly into it from the top, and the dump valve dumps from the bottom. If you have the original dump valve on there, then it will very likely need to be replaced. Similar if you have the original toilet. If you remove the toilet, inspect the flange where it mounts carefully. This is a common place for the tanks to crack with age. Similar with the flange where the dump valve attaches. IF your dump valve is functional (ie., it dumps and it doesn't leak), you can run a garden hose in from the top and fill up the tank with fresh water, then watch for drips/leaks from the outside and underneath. That is about all you need to do to inspect/test your tank.

good luck!

[69bullet]

Thanks for the input. So its a good idea to pull the toilet and check the flange and drain valve for cracks. Where does the the drain lines for the sinks and bath tub go to.

Long term I know the rear floor needs to be replaced due to the typical rot from the leaking rear bumper seal.

[Mx468]

Hey 69 Bullet I just took out my toilet and redid my rear floor. Check out my thread below this one.

[dbj216]

Old trailers and there plumbing systems are a challenge. But it is nothing that can't be renewed. I just removed the black tank from the son's 69 Globetrotter as it was broken due to smacking something from the rear. Maybe like going down a steep gas station entry ramp or running over a curb.

But the Globetrotter has a different bath set up than your trailer. It has a "wet bath" tucked into the rear street side corner. It is not a nifty design in my view.

Removing the toilet is a place to start. The flange is likely threaded into the black tank and will not come off. The tank it self may be under the belly pan. The dump valve is very likely no good. Replacement tanks are available through Inca Plastics in California and Vintage Trailer Supply, also in California.

Be prepared for a big project. Tell your better half getting a working toilet is a $500 and 50 hour project, much of it laying under the trailer. Much easier said than done. However worth it. A working toilet is a luxury when nature calls at 2 am.

David

[Bigventure]

Paul Harvey recommends JB Weld to repair that.

[Mx468]

Here are some pics of my black tank & toilet removal from my 1972 safari. We are putting in a Nature's Head in about 2 days