Plumbing conundrum

[DGLP]

I've been reviewing a number of past threads regarding plumbing conundrums. Many threads seem to have a common theme: pipes and fittings crack and leak. On a recent trip, I noticed that the black tank valve on our 2021 21 NE seemed to be leaking. The Y tube flange was cracked at the lower outside bolt hole next to the black tank valve. I was able to remove the Y tube and both valves (with difficulty). The insulation covering the pipes did not allow for any slack. Escape must have assembled the valves and pipes prior to insulating the trailer.

Apart from removing all the insulation on the pipes from the flanged hubs to the tanks to obtain some (hopefully adequate) slack to install the new Y tube and valves, is a flexible coupler feasible and reliable? Are there any other options? Would the issue have been avoided by insulating the pipes and tanks before installing the Y tube and valves? Design to allow for ease of maintenance/replacement?

Your thoughts, please.

[Bill_75]

Hi,

Ran across your conundrum while researching insulation removal to install a 2nd poop tube holder.
I'm sure you've likely just replaced the Y-tube flange at this point, but just to document for future DIY'ers on the dump valves - it is considerably easier to separate the pipes, and install the valves/fittings, if you run a ratchet strap through your rear tire rim around the grey water pipe and tighten very gingerly.

Using that method, I was able to separate the pipes the 1/4" necessary, with insulation intact, to install the valves/fittings.

Take care.

[iamunique127]

I haven't had to work on the external plumbing but I did have to remove some spray foam insulation to work on my suspension. I found it very easy to cut away the spray foam where needed. After I was finished what I had to do I simply applied some spray foam from a can. After it was cured I sprayed it with rocker guard to seal it and make it appear like the rest. Rocker guard is far more durable than paint.

BTW I get birds pecking and tearing away my spray foam insulation in places when the trailer is in storage. They don't go deep enough to do any real damage but the light coloured spots are unsightly. So I just do the same: fill the holes with spray foam from a can and apply rocker guard afterward.

[DGLP]

Originally Posted by Bill_75

Hi,

Ran across your conundrum while researching insulation removal to install a 2nd poop tube holder.
I'm sure you've likely just replaced the Y-tube flange at this point, but just to document for future DIY'ers on the dump valves - it is considerably easier to separate the pipes, and install the valves/fittings, if you run a ratchet strap through your rear tire rim around the grey water pipe and tighten very gingerly.

Using that method, I was able to separate the pipes the 1/4" necessary, with insulation intact, to install the valves/fittings.

Take care.

Thank you! Great idea, much appreciated.