toilet problem... anyone?

[pmclane]

We have a 1974 Argosy that we love and love living in. Recently, though, the toilet's "drain valve" that is triggered by the foot pedal isn't closing all the way, which makes it a little smelly. I'm wondering if this is a common problem and if there are remedies. With the pedal completely released the valve closes about 80% of the way....



Thanks for any help!
Peter

[HowieE]

Often paper gets stuck in the seat of the valve and keeps the valve from closing. Take a coat hanger or equally heavy piece of wire and bend about a 1/2 90 degree on one end and form a handle at the other end that will allow you to work the short end in the valve seat while the valve is held open.

To prevent this in the future make sure that everything in the toilet is Floating free before stepping on the valve. This is a common problem with kids as they just step before checking.