Dump valve clearance on a retrofit 1965 Trade Wind Gray & Black Tanks

[Rocker66]

Hi all..
I added and retro fitted a gray and black tank on my 1965 Trade Wind. ( Both are 8 gallons and sit side by side ) Things where looking good until I noticed I only have about 8 inches of clearance from the valves to the road. ( See Pics )
I tried cutting all the 3 inch fittings as short as could be. I would love to hear some opinions -about - if the valves are to low to the ground. ( I kind of think they are but HOPE I'M WRONG )

All opinions accepted )

[AWCHIEF]

That is about what I have. Worries me but so far not a factor in 9 years.

[Klatawa]

Run a line from the contact patch of the rear tire of the trailer to the rear bumper. Anything below that line is in danger of hitting the ground. My experience with gas station entrance's and exits are never smooth, never noticed it until towing a trailer and worrying about dump lines and valves.
We have a 65 Tradewind that we did a complete rebuild, made the rear bath a rear bed and moved the bath forward. The black tank is between the axles and the gray just aft of the axles. Our drain is just behind the rear tire and has a 12" ground clearance and I still worry on some entrances and exits.
I will pass on an experience a friend had when the drain line was removed exiting a gas station. He dumped both the black and gray tank on the road, first your trip is done because this is a major repair but now you have a Bio spill to deal with.
I don't think I helped much but there is enough to deal with while towing a trailer, one less worry helps

Dave

[55AS]

If nothing else, you can provide some protection around the valves just in case.

[Rocker66]

Thanks !!
I may just cap the bottom drains and try and make new holes on the sides..it was a good attempt until I realized how many inches the 3 " pipe / right angle takes up. I will chalk it up to the learning curve.

[Klatawa]

Something that may help with the clearances is to use 1 1/2" or 2" pipe and els for you gray tank. I installed 25 gal black and gray tanks, 3" drain for black and 2" for the gray. All works well for me.
Dave

[Klatawa]

on my replies is a link to our photobucket of out 65 Tradewind rebuild I think it still works. We are at an Airstream Rally and the Wi-Fi is not real good, this is the second try. Good luck with you project.