Drain valve too low

wayner1239 · 02-17-2003, 02:27 PM

The drain valve on my 92 Sovereign 21 ft with 14 inch tires is too low to the ground which causes two problems: One, most sewer connections at campgrounds are too high for me to fit the sewer hoses in so that they will drain properly and two, the drain valve keeps hitting obstructions, even some speed humps, and busting things loose (nasty).
Does anyone know how to raise the height of this unit? Thanks.

**overlander64** · 02-17-2003, 09:53 PM

You have a problem that is familiar to many who have Vintage coaches, and had assumed that the later models had resolved the issue. The height so far as campground sewer facilities is concerened will likely always be a problem as so many of the campgrounds are designed for the Brand X world where it isn't uncommon to have three or more steps from the ground to the RV floor.

What I have learned after dragging the terminator cap off of my Overlander three times and my Minuet twice, is that hitch adjustments is critical - - absolute level to a slight forward pitch lessens the likelihood of damaging the terminator valve and cap. I would suspect that one possible method of gaining a bit more clearance would be to switch to 15" wheels and tires if they will fit within the wheelwells - - the new issue would then be one of adjusting the hitch to maintain proper balance.

Good luck in finding a solution to your problem.

Kevin

Tripp · 02-18-2003, 08:56 AM

You might try using your leveling blocks (if you use them). Just stack them up and pull the trailer onto them. At one particular campground, the pull thru by the dump station tapers away from the drain. I use my blocks on the opposite side to "lean" my trailer toward the drain so I can ensure I get everything out.

Good Luck.

Tripp

wayner1239 · 02-18-2003, 12:45 PM

Thanks for the advice Overlander 64 and Tripp. I guess I will just have to be very careful where I pull the unit, keep my front end down, and use leveling blocks to drain the tanks. I looked at an 03 model that is 22 ft long. It has 14 inch tires like mine but it is definitely higher off the ground. I guess Thor is listening. I am new to this forum and am very grateful to all of you for taking time to help others with their problems.