- Soak up all of the waste in the tank using some sawdust. You should then smooth out the sides of the crack using some sandpaper. Add acetone to the edges of the crack, cleaning it thoroughly. Apply a specialized sealant, available at most repair shops, and leave it to dry. Wipe down the edges with a cloth to remove excess sealant.
Can you patch a black tank on an RV?
Plasti-Mend is a specially formulated mix of plastic resins and solvents designed to repair ABS based RV holding tanks. These are usually the black ones you see used for gray and black water. Not the clear or whitish looking ones traditionally used for fresh water. So, I was good to go and ordered up a Plasti-Mend kit.
What kind of plastic are RV water tanks made of?
Varying in size and location, RV water tanks are usually made of ABS or polyethylene plastic. There is one for fresh water, gray water (waste from sinks and showers) and black water (waste water from a toilet). Here’s what you need to know about these three types of water tanks and how they work in an RV.
Can ABS plastic be repaired?
A special resin is required for repairing ABS plastic, such as that found on motorcycle trim. Repairing ABS requires an adhesive resin that chemically melts into the existing ABS plastic, resulting in a strong bond.
Can you weld a RV hot water tank?
Damage can include cracks in the tank or a tank pipe busts from cold weather. Welding cracks and pipes on a hot water tank is one method to fix a leaking water tank. Welding a water tank can be completed with the right tools, saving you the expense of replacing the hot water tank.
Why is my black tank leaking?
If your black tank is only leaking when it’s full, the problem typically isn’t near the drain valve, but rather near the top at one of the connections (vent or drain pipe) or the tank itself has been compromised (ie, a crack near the top).
What is a good epoxy for plastic?
Best Overall Plastic Epoxy: Gorilla 2-Part Epoxy The Gorilla 2-Part Epoxy is considered the best overall product because it is versatile and provides a clear and tidy finish. This is a good epoxy for plastic but can also be used on metal, wood, ceramics, glass, tiles, and other surfaces.
Which JB Weld is best for plastic?
J-B WELD PLASTICWELD: A quick setting and multipurpose two part epoxy that provides a strong and lasting bond on various plastic surfaces (Plastic & PVC, Fiberglass, Glass, ABS, Composites and Vinyl). J-B Weld PlasticWeld comes in a syringe allowing for an easy 1:1 mix ratio.
Is epoxy glue good for plastic?
It can be used for surfaces besides plastics, such as wood, brick, ceramics, metal, and concrete. Here’s a tip: You can speed up the cure time for epoxy adhesives by applying heat. Epoxy can be used for both metal and plastic.
Repairing Cracked RV Waste Tanks with Plasti-Mend
I detected two little cracks in my RV’s holding tank capacity a few weeks ago when I was monitoring the tank’s capacity. One of the fractures is in the black waste tank, and the other is in the grey waste tank that I use for my shower. I have both of these valves situated just on top of my tank at the rounded corners near my waste valves. After years of straining and pushing on often-sticky valves, I concluded that the cracks had been created by the strain. Or it might have been from going with full tanks over bad roads, which is something we do a lot of when boondocking.
Checking Holding Tank Capacity Video
I started by estimating the cost of new tanks. They sell for roughly $300 dollars and would be difficult to replace owing to the topside input piping and vent pipes that are already in place. Maybe there was a lot less expensive approach to repair/patch the old tanks than what was originally planned. It was still early in the cracking process, so the cracks were just 3-4 inches long and quite thin. It seems a shame to just run over them with the full tank. I decided to seek for guidance from my YouTube channel audience, and I received a slew of product ideas and repair instructions in return.
It was ultimately decided that I would experiment with a chemical weld solution known as Plasti-Mend.
What is Plasti-Mend?
Plasti-Mend is a specifically prepared mixture of plastic resins and solvents that is used to repair ABS-based recreational vehicle holding tanks (RV holding tanks). These are often the black ones that you see being used for gray and black water, respectively. This isn’t the clear or whitish-looking ones that have historically been used for drinking water. Plastic-Mend will not work on these since they are made of polyethylene plastic. According to my limited study, polyethylene tanks must be plastic welded in order to be repaired.
- Ameri-Kart manufactured the gray and black RV waste tanks for me (Model HT 515 and HT 516).
- So I was ready to go and placed an order for a Plasti-Mend kit.
- It is available for purchase for $38.39 + delivery.
- I opted to acquire two kits: one for the present repairs and another to have on hand in case I need to do any further plastic repairs in the future.
The total cost of the two kits was 76.78 USD, plus USD 44.29 for international UPS delivery, plus USD 44.10 CAD for import brokerage/duty fees and taxes, for a total of 76.78 USD.
What’s in the Repair Kit?
When I opened the package, I discovered two tin cans and a few other odds and ends. A scotch scrubbing pad and a tiny 4 oz container of cleaner/primer solvent are included for prepping the surface before painting. The Plasti-Mend is contained in a pint-sized container. It has the appearance of black goop and the viscosity of liquid honey, and it contains compounds such as Methalyine Chloride and Methyl Ethyl Ketone, among others. In addition, two inexpensive paint brushes and a small amount of mesh material are supplied, as well as thorough product information, instructions, and safety precautions.
“Exposure to the solvents in Plasti-Mend without taking adequate measures can be harmful and even lethal,” the document added.
As a precaution, I purchased one and completed the work on a day with a slight breeze.
Patching the Tank with Plasti-Mend
The first thing I did was use Simple Green Cleaner to thoroughly clean the whole area in and around the tank cracks. After that, I used the Scotch-Brite scrubbing pad that included with the kit to rough up the ABS plastic surface. After that, I wipe the area down with the cleaner/primer liquid that was provided. It comprises Methyl Ethyl Ketone, Acetone, and Tetrahydrofuran, to name a few constituents. A tiny coating of the black ABS was cleaned and dissolved by the machine, leaving black markings on my rag.
Following that, I applied a layer of the fine mesh, pressing it into the Plasti-mend goop with the bristles of the paintbrush.
Following that, I applied a second layer and allowed it to dry.
Plasti-Mend RV Tank Repair Video
It took a few days after the Plasti-Mend patch had completely cured before I attempted to fill the waste tanks. There will be no leaks! I have to admit that I am satisfied with the repair; it was a low-cost, simple solution to the problem of the fractured waste tanks. Glad I didn’t have to remove the tanks, and I’m hopeful that the fix will last. When I get back to you in a few months, I’ll give you an update on how the patch has held up thus far. *UPDATE*: My initial attempt to fix the damage caused by the Plasti-Mend product failed.
– *SECOND UPDATE*– After several failed tries with Plasti-Mend that only lasted a few months, I’ve decided to try a another product on the cracks this summer called West Systems G/Flex 655 Epoxy, which I’m hoping will work better.
Leaking RV Holding Tank, Should You Repair or Replace It?
“Your holding tank has sprung a leak, oh no! That is something no one likes to hear, yet it does happen.”
By Glen Mayo
It’s not something anyone likes to hear, yet it does happen. Usually at the most inconvenient times, such as while you are driving or wish to be driving. But, once it occurs, what can you do to prevent it from occurring? Many individuals feel that the only thing that can be done is to completely replace the tank. That alternative can be quite pricey — ranging from $300 to $800 or more each transaction. Even worse, it puts your rig out of operation for an extended period of time — maybe many weeks.
- Another alternative is to get the tank repaired.
- Low Density Polyethylene, sometimes known as LDPE, is used in the construction of some recreational vehicles and numerous maritime holding tanks.
- Chemical welding is commonly used to join ABS tanks together after they have been thermoformed.
- Following the determination of the type of tank you have, the next stage in replacing it is locating the tank, which may be done either by you or by a service facility.
- If your tank does not fall into one of these categories, your options are either to convert an existing tank to suit or to have a new tank manufactured to order.
- In most cases, this will be more expensive.
- This may need the cutting of pipes within the rig as well as the removal of toilets and other items that are fastened to the tank.
Because all of this might be labor-intensive, the expense of replacement can be prohibitively expensive.
If the cracking is caused by intrinsic vulnerabilities in the tank, there is nothing that can be done to avoid it.
If your tank is being damaged as a result of dragging, putting drag wheels to the rear of your rig may be all that is needed to solve the problem.
For a variety of reasons, certain service centers discourage customers from using this option.
Another type of risk is commercial risk.
The third type of risk is legal risk.
If a service business claims that they are unable to repair holding tanks, check with a few different places.
As previously said, when you discover a leak in your tank, it is almost always when you want to use your rig and, more importantly, when other people want to use theirs.
Consequently, either you will have to wait or the service facility may recommend a “temporary repair” to allow you to continue using the rig while delaying the replacement until their quiet season, thereby bankrolling the project.
This is a critical item to remember if you are taking your machine in for repair.
Allow the tank to dry out by leaving the dump valve open.
It goes without saying that there is an exemption in the case of tanks that are unable to be dumped and flushed owing to a faulty valve or other defective component.
Just keep in mind that emptying and cleaning your own tanks is a horrible enough situation.
Temporary Repair Adhesives– These are typically two-part epoxies that are applied topically and are intended to be temporary.
Even with the significant advancements in contemporary adhesives, their ability to cling to a surface remains a critical factor in their effectiveness.
Due to the fact that these adhesives are not made of the same material as the tank, the difference in temperature expansion/contraction plays a role in the success of their application.
The majority of “Tank Repair Kits” available on the market are made up of topical adhesives.
Thermal welding may be accomplished in a variety of ways.
As a result, only a small number of RV service locations are equipped to do thermal welding.
If you look around your neighborhood, you may be able to locate additional firms that specialize in plastic thermal welding.
This may be a viable repair option for someone who has the necessary time and patience to put in the effort.
Thermal welding is the only way of mending LDPE tanks that is permanent, and it may also be used to repair ABS tanks.
As a result, it may be rather pricey.
Chemical Welding– This is the method of joining two pieces of plastic together by melting them together using a chemical.
Plastic from the pipe and fittings is melted by the plumbing cement, which creates a strong link between them.
Chemical welding is a particularly effective repair method for ABS since it is both rapid and durable.
The material LDPE is not compatible with this method since LDPE is almost immune to most chemicals.
If you can get a paintbrush close to the damaged region, you can restore it.
Another advantage is that the tank can be put back into service in a matter of hours.
When it comes to chemical welding, one of the issues is the chemical itself.
But when handled appropriately, these items represent no greater a harm than other home chemicals that are commonly encountered in ordinary life.
A lot of the time, plumbing cement is utilized to fix a tank with varying degrees of effectiveness.
New product on the market has been developed specifically for the repair of ABS holding tanks using chemical welding techniques.
Larger repairs, such as reattaching valve assemblies that have been ripped off the tank, can be accomplished using this product.
When it comes to tank repair, one of the most common reasons for failure is a lack of thorough cleaning and improper tank preparation.
Consider some of your choices the next time you check beneath your rig and see that your holding tank is pouring.
Don’t just throw in the towel and replace it when you may be able to fix it for a fraction of the expense of replacing it. Take a look at the video below to learn how to use Plasti-Mend properly. Passport America offers campers a 50 percent discount on campsites.
About The Author
For about fifteen years, Glen Mayo worked as an RV technician, shop supervisor, and service manager. For about five years, he owned and operated an RV servicing shop. A lot of rigs have been renovated or specially constructed by him. “I don’t recall any of the houses I grew up in, but I do remember most of the recreational vehicles my family owned.” One of the first recreational vehicles (RVs) that I recall my family owning was a Masonite-sided travel trailer. The use of recreational vehicles has always been a part of my life.” For additional information about Plasti-Mend products, please visit the company’s website at [email protected].
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Learn how to run two RV air conditioners off of a single 30 amp circuit. The Leaking RV Holding Tank: Should You Repair or Replace It page will take you back to the RV Lifestyle Articles section of the site.
How To Diagnose And Fix Leaky Tank Issues On RV’s
RVs have a large number of tanks, which makes it difficult to diagnose and repair leaky tanks. Fresh water tanks, black water tanks, fuel tanks, propane tanks, and so forth are all available. Fortunately, most of these tanks are composed of plastic and will survive for the whole life of the RV. These tanks may also have valves, and all of them are equipped with supply lines, fittings, and brackets that aid in the installation of the tank on the chassis. Every now and again, you can realize that you have a leak, and leaky tanks require rapid attention.
- Identifying the source of the leak The first step in diagnosing any form of leak is to identify it.
- Parking on dirt, gravel, or any other sort of natural surface will make it less evident where the leak is located, reducing its visibility.
- Using a flashlight and a mirror, try to see through the tank’s top opening after you’ve determined its approximate location (or, if you’re unable to physically do so, see if an RV neighbor friend or relative can assist you).
- Occasionally, frame elements may obstruct your vision, or the tank may be positioned flush against the underlayment of the floor.
- If you assume that your black water tank is the source of the leak, a garden hose into the toilet will most likely be the most expedient solution.
- Fractures on the edges of the tank towards the top are frequent, but there have been occasions when cracks have appeared on the very top of the tank, which is unusual.
- If a vent pipe were to collapse, it would most likely fall into the tank through a rubber tank fitting, which is not uncommon.
You may inspect the vent pipe from the roof’s vantage point.
It should protrude about an inch above the eaves of the house.
A holding tank will be dropped if it is not feasible to see the top section of it from underneath the RV while it is being serviced.
Remove the toilet and the floor flange from the black water tank, as well as the vent pipe that continues up into the roof, if it has one.
It is also necessary to remove the 3-inch tank outlet fitting and disassemble the termination assembly during this process.
At that point, it will be immediately apparent where the leak is located, and you may even be able to see the crack with your naked eye without having to fill it in yourself.
We highly advise against the use of an aftermarket patch kit since welding is the only long-term and correct technique of mending cracks in plastic tanks.
If the tank has been damaged as a result of a collision or if you have accidentally run anything over something, you may have to replace the entire tank.
If all of this is too much for you, please contact us by clicking on the button below and we will provide you with a price for a tank diagnostic, repair, or replacement cost.
How to Repair an RV Holding Tank
Lay out all of the shattered pieces, making sure that all of the pieces are clean and dry before continuing. Make a dry fit of the components to ensure that they will fit back together. If necessary, trim portions to ensure that the garment fits as closely as possible. Replacement of lost sections can be accomplished by cutting portions from the ABS sheet material that has been provided. In a 2 pack of 5 1/2″ X 9 1/2″ ABS sheet material, you may get even more for your money.
Step 2
Place the pieces together if necessary, then use masking tape to hold them in place as you work. If you are using a flat patch, mark the area with tape so that you will know where to place the resin when it is time to apply it. Patches may be heated and shaped into a variety of shapes. See page 2 for further information. Make certain that the area to be repaired is free of debris and completely dry. Remove any contaminants from the surface of the plastic with a file, wire brush, or dremel tool until the raw plastic is exposed.
Step 3
Masking tape can be used to keep the parts together if they need to be fitted together. Mark the area using masking tape if you’re using a flat patch so you’ll know where to place the resin. Heating and shaping the patches is possible. Page 2 has further information. Make certain that the area to be repaired is free of debris and completely dry before beginning the repair. Remove any contaminants from the surface of the plastic with a file, wire brush, or dremel tool until the raw plastic is visible.
Step 4
Resin should be used to continue to build up the repair. If you used tape on the initial application, remove it and apply resin to the areas where the tape was applied. The thicker the application, the longer it will take for the air to cure. If you’ve used a flat patch, place the patch on the resin and push it firmly into the resin with your fingers. If necessary, put a weight or use tape to the edges of the patch to ensure that it remains tightly attached to the tank.
Step 5
Leaks in the ABS plumbing piping may also be fixed quickly and simply with this material. Using a wire brush, scrub the leaking area clean. Ensure that there is no water present (toilet paper works well). Apply the resin on the fitting that is leaking. Wait 24 hours before putting the fix to the test.
Step 6
ABS sheet material has the ability to be molded into curved shapes. Place the sheet in an oven set at 150-250 degrees for 10-15 minutes, or in a pan of boiling water for the same amount of time. Remove the sheet while using gloves. When it is as flexible as a sheet of paper, it is ready to be used. Hold it in place with tape or clamp it to the curve until it cools. Once it has cooled, use it to complete the repair.
Step 7
Look around your RV, car, and house for any additional plastic objects that need to be repaired or replaced. Determine whether the plastic is ABS and hence repairable by scraping it down to raw plastic in a concealed location.
squirt a drop of resin onto the unfinished plastic If you are unable to pluck out the resin within 24 hours, the plastic is ABS and is repairable. On our website, you may see several examples of ABS plastic.
Step 8
Remember to remove the applicator tip and replace it with the white seal cap after your repair is complete. This will guarantee that the bottle is well sealed and that the shelf life is maintained. Set the applicator tip aside for 36 hours, and the resin will solidify and fall out, revealing a clean and ready-to-use applicator tip.
need to patch my black water holding tank
That is most likely not going to work. Currently, there is a discussion labeled “holding tank troubles” in the trailer and 5th wheel forum that is dealing with this same situation. That is ABS plastic, and aside from ABS glue, there are very few things that will adhere to it. The original poster of that thread discovered a tank repair product that he intends to utilize, and I personally believe that fiberglass and resin would be effective. Hopefully, a photo of your repair will help others understand the scope of your repair and provide more accurate replies.
- Because of the amount of force generated by all of the trash splashing about, any repairs will need to be extremely durable.
- After trying everything for friends and attempting many various approaches to repair a boat of my own, I recommend that you save your work and simply replace it with a new one after it has been properly installed.
- The size of the hole can range from 1/8″ to 1/4″; the important thing is to make sure the rounded edge of the hole goes beyond the crack and into unbroken plastic.
- I like Marc’s idea of combining ABS shavings with ABS glue to create a putty to cover the crack, which I will try.
- Almost anything can be repaired with a little effort.
- Using a cheap repair from a little youtube patch kit on a black tank that stores human waste would never be a good idea in my opinion.
- There isn’t one, to be honest.
Most of your repairs, on the other hand, will be done from the outside, which is equivalent to applying a bandaid to a cut that requires stitching.
I used a cutter to cut a piece from the bottom of the piece, which I then utilized as my welding rod.
A successful repair would not have been possible if I had only been able to reach one side of the vehicle.
Using a marine inspection deck plate to patch the hole if the place is easily accessible and small enough is a good option.
This is one of them.
It appeared to have fixed the fractures, but there is still a minor trickle.
Travis I once temporarily repaired a TT waste tank by drilling the ends of the crack, as previously said, and sanding the surrounding area to ensure that it was as clean as it could be.
When I inquired of the proprietor many years later as to the nature of the permanent fix, he informed me that my patch was still in place and that he had taken no further action.
Polyethylene is capable of being welded.
Is polyethylene welding still practiced today?
Look for a store or service shop that specializes in kayaks.
I would find some of the same plastic and treat it with GOOP, then put it over the hole and drill either 4 or 8 SMALL holes into it, filling them with stainless steel screws that had been coated with Goop in the previous step.
In reality, I installed the tank rinser gadget around 12 years ago and it is still in good working order. Holes that are larger. Perhaps a more substantial plastic.
RV Tank Repair Made Easy
A trip to the RV tank repair shop is probably not what you had in mind for a fun afternoon activity on a bright afternoon. The inconvenience of having to totally remove and replace a malfunctioning RV waste tank is certainly preferable. It may not be something you particularly love doing for fun, and it is unlikely to be something you remember fondly, but it is far less expensive than hiring someone to do it for you! This past spring, as we were getting ready to pull out for a short loop in our Jayco Eagle, something happened.
- We had a dilemma on our hands.
- and it veered “off the rails.” We had a sneaking suspicion that something was wrong.
- However, I had been blaming it on a dog all along!
- oops!
- After that initial leak, which occurred when I first moved the rig, the leak ceased as I hauled the rig down to a disposal facility.
- We had made a commitment to each other on that tiny circle.
- However, the bathroom will be cold without the roof vent and window open.
The belly pan and contaminated insulation from underneath the RV Waste Tanks were removed as part of the first phase of the operation.
It is located immediately to the right of the dump port.
This RV Black Tank Repair became necessary as a result of this.
It’s not possible to save that insulation.
Then throw it away in a dumpster!
The failure, on the other hand, was detected when I removed the belly pan and performed a thorough inspection of the tank, which revealed that a fracture had developed around the flange where the Dump Pipe is connected to the face of the Black Tank.
However, the failure is located in the bottom of the tank.
The fracture begins at the edge of the flange, where it is bonded to the tank’s face, where you can see the white residue.
According to reports, when the tank was totally filled, the weight of the contents exerted enough pressure on the crack to cause it to open and allow the water to leak through.
A large amount of’sewage’ was being held in that insulation, which was the source of an unpleasant odor we had begun to notice.
when the rig became out of level as I was moving it It oozed out of the seams.
This is not a nice thing!
Should I just replace the black tank in its entirety?
Obtaining dimensions and locating a replacement that is adequate waiting for it to arrive from overseas as well as footing the bill for the damned item.
Better in terms of time, better in terms of cost, and better in terms of stress reduction!
The material is well-known for being tough to deal with.
There are companies that specialize in “Plastic Welding.” However, they are difficult to come by.
Alternatively, you might pay them to come to you.
and simply take a stroll around.
as well as saying; “I’m the Solution to your problem!
Epoxy!
and one that was tailored precisely to my requirements.
as well as ABS, which is the material from which the majority of RV Black Tanks are constructed.
But.
At the very least, not in my thoughts.
I was right to be concerned.
And, of course, good ol’ Ace Hardware had it.
I cut part of the Fiberglass cloth into smaller, more manageable strips to use for this repair, and I applied them to the damaged area.
when I ran out of the first container of toothpaste!
The epoxy resin benefits from the use of glass cloth because it provides structural strength.
I sandpapered the area to make it more aesthetically pleasing.
Once the little pieces of fiberglass fabric had been pushed into the epoxy, another layer of epoxy was put over the top to lock it all in place, and the process repeated.
I made the decision to put a second sealing coat of epoxy over the top of the first.
I’m confident in the RV Tank Repair’s ability to last.
We’re estimating a 10-year life period for these things.
While conducting this RV tank repair, it seemed like a good idea to replace the tank, which was 10 years old.
and that piqued my interest a little more in terms of thinking.
as well as causing me to construct what the manufacturer should have included in the construction of my Fifth Wheel’s belly in the year 2001 For the purpose of replacement or maintenance, an access port is provided to give quick access to the valve.
I believe this was a horrible option.
They’re intended for use in the construction of HVAC ductwork, and they performed excellently during my RV belly installation.
This time it’s different.
purchased a few 3/4 inch hard urea based insulation panels that are laminated between layers of reflective foil, as well as a few panels of reflective foil.
It’s similar to the heat produced by your furnace.
Furthermore, the poly insulation will effectively keep the cold away.
I’d want to see more.
In order to keep it off the road.
This was installed using new, self-drilling hex head screws, with tiny washers added for additional support to prevent the heads from being dragged through the panels over time.
and even come to my repair shop on occasion to examine it.
unless otherwise stated.
RV Tank Replacement.
Finally, it’s time to seal off that moisture-resistant plywood and make it water-resistant.
purchased at the same good ol’ Ace Hardware store where I purchased the rest of my RV Tank Repair supplies.
RV Tank Repair may be a lot of fun if you know what you’re doing. Let’s hope this is the last time I have this much pleasure in the sun! Return from RV Tank Repair to Goin’ RV Boondocking to complete your journey.
Fresh water tank crack repair
| 03-14-2019, 06:37 PM | 1 |
| Senior MemberJoin Date: May 2018Location: OregonPosts: 1,137 | Fresh water tank crack repair
Quote:Originally Posted byBnftravelWell after several days of searching and looking for repair tips for a cracked fresh water tank at the drain hole area I finally fixed it. We have a 2017 keystone Bullet crossfire 2070bh.Last season we noticed the fresh water holding tank was leaking.First I was going to buy a new fresh water holding tank and decided to check into repairs and found that a electric plastic welder would work for this project.My neighbor mentioned that he had one so I gave it a try and it worked out great.It not only heated the plastic and sealed with the plastic rods it actually stiff and the bottom of the drain area and made it more solid and we no longer have a crack project took me approximately one hour to do.I used a Mini-Weld Model 7 Airless Plastic Welder modelURE5700HTIf I didn�t have one I would�ve went out and purchased it for around $170 it is well worth every penny it will repair almost any plastic there is cracks holes whatever you need to fix this thing seems to do a great job I�m very pleased with it.Some may say repairing freshwater holding tank�s won�t work but from what I�ve seen and what this little machine can do I beg to differ.I put about 15 to 18 gallons of water in it after the project was repaired and I have not had a drop of water leak out at all today so far so good will let everybody know down the road how I made out.From what I read on purchasing a new tank was the issue with taking the old one out because of the straps being screwed in from the top side and the amount of time and effort it would�ve been would�ve needed to replace the tank this repair was a much better solution.Happy campers in Bardstown KentuckyThat�s really cool! Congrats |
| 03-16-2019, 07:00 AM | 2 |
| Junior MemberJoin Date: Nov 2018Location: BardstownPosts: 19 | Fresh water tank crack repair
Well after several days of searching and looking for repair tips for a cracked fresh water tank at the drain hole area I finally fixed it. We have a 2017 keystone Bullet crossfire 2070bh.Last season we noticed the fresh water holding tank was leaking.First I was going to buy a new fresh water holding tank and decided to check into repairs and found that a electric plastic welder would work for this project.My neighbor mentioned that he had one so I gave it a try and it worked out great.It not only heated the plastic and sealed it with the plastic rods it actually stiffened the bottom of the drain area and made it more solid and we no longer have a crack. The project took me approximately one hour to do.I used a Mini-Weld Model 7 Airless Plastic Welder modelURE5700HTIf I didn’t have one I would’ve went out and purchased it for around $170.00. It is well worth every penny and it will repair almost any plastic there is like cracks holes or whatever you need to fix that is plastic. This thing seems to do a great job and I’m very pleased with it.Some may say repairing freshwater holding tank’s won’t work but from what I’ve seen and what this little machine can do I beg to differ. I put about 15 to 18 gallons of water in it after the crack was repaired and I have not had a drop of water leak out at all today. So far so good and will let everybody know down the road how I made out after a few trips.From what I read on purchasing a new tank was the issue with taking the old one out because of the straps being screwed in from the top side and the amount of time and effort it would’ve been would’ve needed to replace the tank. This repair was a much better solution.Happy campers inKentucky |
| 03-16-2019, 07:43 AM | 3 |
| Senior MemberJoin Date: Apr 2017Location: AnchoragePosts: 572 | Quote:Originally Posted byBnftravelWell after several days of searching and looking for repair tips for a cracked fresh water tank at the drain hole area I finally fixed it. We have a 2017 keystone Bullet crossfire 2070bh.Last season we noticed the fresh water holding tank was leaking.First I was going to buy a new fresh water holding tank and decided to check into repairs and found that a electric plastic welder would work for this project.My neighbor mentioned that he had one so I gave it a try and it worked out great.It not only heated the plastic and sealed it with the plastic rods it actually stiffened the bottom of the drain area and made it more solid and we no longer have a crack. The project took me approximately one hour to do.I used a Mini-Weld Model 7 Airless Plastic Welder modelURE5700HTIf I didn�t have one I would�ve went out and purchased it for around $170.00. It is well worth every penny and it will repair almost any plastic there is like cracks holes or whatever you need to fix that is plastic. This thing seems to do a great job and I�m very pleased with it.Some may say repairing freshwater holding tank�s won�t work but from what I�ve seen and what this little machine can do I beg to differ. I put about 15 to 18 gallons of water in it after the crack was repaired and I have not had a drop of water leak out at all today. So far so good and will let everybody know down the road how I made out after a few trips.From what I read on purchasing a new tank was the issue with taking the old one out because of the straps being screwed in from the top side and the amount of time and effort it would�ve been would�ve needed to replace the tank. This repair was a much better solution.Happy campers in Bardstown KentuckyThanks for sharing how can you not be happy in a place like Bardstown.My under belly is enclosed and I have a piece of pex running out with a cap on it.if your set up is like this is there enough pex to cut and put a new valve on? Pictures would be helpful._Mike2016Ford F350 CC 6.7 4×4 SRW (Ghost Rider)2017 Cougar 29 RKSWE (The Tumble Weed)Connected by a Curt 15K WDH W/Sway Control |
| 03-16-2019, 08:53 AM | 4 |
| Junior MemberJoin Date: Nov 2018Location: BardstownPosts: 19 | Pictures of repair
Here are a few pictures of the repair |
| 03-16-2019, 11:42 AM | 5 |
| Senior MemberJoin Date: Apr 2017Location: AnchoragePosts: 572 | Nice pictures are worth 1000 words when describing projects._Mike2016Ford F350 CC 6.7 4×4 SRW (Ghost Rider)2017 Cougar 29 RKSWE (The Tumble Weed)Connected by a Curt 15K WDH W/Sway Control |
| 03-16-2019, 12:07 PM | 6 |
| Senior MemberJoin Date: Jul 2013Location: Liberty, TexasPosts: 4,327 | Very well done._2018 Ram 3500 Laramie CC DRW LWB 4X4 Cummins Aisin 3.73 Reese Goosebox 20K 2018 Heartland Landmark 365 Oshkosh2008 Bigfoot 25C9.4 LB Cabover |
| 03-16-2019, 12:49 PM | 7 |
| Senior MemberJoin Date: Feb 2014Location: radium hot springs bcPosts: 2,007 | Quote:Originally Posted byBnftravelHear are a few pictures of the repairNice repair. Did your fresh water tank not have a nipple with a cap for draining?_2018 Ram 3500 6.4 Harvest Edition2018 Cougar 27RESWE |
| 03-16-2019, 02:38 PM | 8 |
| Junior MemberJoin Date: Nov 2018Location: BardstownPosts: 19 | Quote:Originally Posted by66joejNice repair. Did your fresh water tank not have a nipple with a cap for draining?Yes, I think we hit a higher bridge than the road over a creek or driving up to a road from a lower grass parking area and that is what I think cracked the tank outside the drain plug. The hard spout with the drain twist end was sticking down about 2 inches under the tank and it cought the road or bridge. I decided after the repair it would just be easier to put in a flat plug rather than a spout with en end cap. When we need to drain the tank I will just take the plug out.ACTUALLY when do we really need to drain the tank? Just before Wintering. It’s only fresh water and can drain out on the ground. |
| 03-16-2019, 03:30 PM | 9 |
| Site TeamJoin Date: Mar 2011Location: GaylordPosts: 23,015 | Our tank drains the same as yours, I installed a 90 degree elbow and a piece of half inch PEX with a 1/4 turn valve on the end.I routed it from the bottom of the tank to the back wall of the trailer where all I need to do to empty the FWT is reach behind the bumper and twist the valve.Easy mod and it’s all tucked way up next to the trailer so it won’t get damaged easily.I can’t take any pictures now (can’t get into the pole barn) but will in a couple weeks if needed._John2015 F250 6.7l 4×42014 CougarX Lite 27RKS |
| 03-16-2019, 03:37 PM | 10 |
| Junior MemberJoin Date: Nov 2018Location: BardstownPosts: 19 | Quote:Originally Posted byJRTJHOur tank drains the same as yours, I installed a 90 degree elbow and a piece of half inch PEX with a 1/4 turn valve on the end.I routed it from the bottom of the tank to the back wall of the trailer where all I need to do to empty the FWT is reach behind the bumper and twist the valve.Easy mod and it’s all tucked way up next to the trailer so it won’t get damaged easily.I can’t take any pictures now (can’t get into the pole barn) but will in a couple weeks if needed.Sounds like a great idea. Next time I’m at Lowes I’ll see what they have and may do that as well.Thanks |
| 03-26-2019, 02:01 PM | 11 |
| Senior MemberJoin Date: Feb 2015Location: TexasPosts: 1,067 | Quote:Originally Posted byJRTJHOur tank drains the same as yours, I installed a 90 degree elbow and a piece of half inch PEX with a 1/4 turn valve on the end.I routed it from the bottom of the tank to the back wall of the trailer where all I need to do to empty the FWT is reach behind the bumper and twist the valve.Easy mod and it’s all tucked way up next to the trailer so it won’t get damaged easily.I can’t take any pictures now (can’t get into the pole barn) but will in a couple weeks if needed.Excellent idea.We recently vaulted a ceiling in our house and when the existing ceiling was removed there was a 20 foot hot water line going across the space.I went to HD and they were out of the 25 foot 1/2 inch PEX packages, so they sold me 100 feet for the same price. I have lots of PEX for projects nowThe problem will be pulling the coroplast to get to the drain fitting. maybe I could just put the 90 on the existing line.-Brian_2014 Bullet Premier 22RBPR – let the camping commence!2013 F150 Platinum – 5.0 – 3.55 ELD + towing package |
| 03-27-2019, 08:36 AM | 12 |
| Senior MemberJoin Date: Feb 2013Location: Lacey, WAPosts: 401 | Quote:Originally Posted byJRTJHOur tank drains the same as yours, I installed a 90 degree elbow and a piece of half inch PEX with a 1/4 turn valve on the end.I routed it from the bottom of the tank to the back wall of the trailer where all I need to do to empty the FWT is reach behind the bumper and twist the valve.Easy mod and it’s all tucked way up next to the trailer so it won’t get damaged easily.I can’t take any pictures now (can’t get into the pole barn) but will in a couple weeks if needed.Hi. This is a Mod I would like to do. Is the 1/4 turn valve a positive lock type? If not. Have you ever had any problems with the valve opening from vibrations while driving?ThanksLee |
| 03-27-2019, 10:45 AM | 13 |
| Site TeamJoin Date: Mar 2011Location: GaylordPosts: 23,015 | There are many different approaches to adding a drain valve to a fresh water tank.Here are some of them.I used an available RV drain valve with a 3/8 or 1/2 inch barb.It’s slow to drain the tank, for me a “good thing” because I don’t want to wash away the gravel where I park my RV during the summer.Here’s a photo of the valve I used, available here: psc=1and some photos of what is currently under your trailer and ways to improve it._John2015 F250 6.7l 4×42014 CougarX Lite 27RKS |
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Why Does My RV Black Tank Leak When Full?
Having to deal with a leaking black tank while on vacation is the last thing any RVer wants to deal with. While it is not a typical event, it does occur from time to time. And, to make matters even more complicated, it frequently occurs only when your tank is completely empty. For those of you who have discovered that this is happening to you, we’ve put together this fast tutorial to assist you in troubleshooting why an RV black tank leaks while it is full, so you can go back to enjoying the camper life in no time.
Let’s take a deeper look at each probable problem.
Cracked Vent Connection
The connection between your vent and your black tank is the first place to search for problems. It’s possible that the seal has gotten damaged, or that the vent pipe has fully burst out of the tank’s bottom. Try to twist your vent pipe from the top of your RV to see if it feels loose, or put a hose up to the top of your vent pipe and run water down it to determine if the pipe is loose or not. If you see water beginning to leak under your RV, you’ve identified the source of the problem. The existence of scents is yet another telltale sign.
However, when the tank is at its heaviest from being full (and is not properly connected), the fracture may not begin to split until later.
Cracked Drain Pipe Connection
It’s a similar story with your drain pipe, which runs from your RV toilet down to your black water tank and can become compromised at the connection to the holding tank, just as it was with your vent connection. Flushing your toilet 10 or so times in a row and viewing the underside of your RV may assist you in determining whether or not there is a minor break in the connection. In order to avoid the possibility of the weight of the black tank potentially spreading the cracked connection open, make sure your black tank is almost completely full.
However, once again, the most reliable approach to determine whether or not a connection has been hacked is to physically inspect the connection itself.
Cracked Black Tank
Once the two most obvious weak places have been eliminated from consideration, it is necessary to inspect the holding tank itself for leaks. A broken tank during the production process is a distinct possibility if you have a recent recreational vehicle (RV). You may just be seeing deterioration in an older RV, since holding tanks get fragile with age, as shown here. If you do discover a fracture in your plastic holding tank, you can try to seal it with black plastic weld, as long as the gap is no greater than 0.125 inches wide and the crack is not larger than 0.125 inches long.
In any other case, you may be required to replace your black tank with another one. An aftermarket tank or a replacement tank may be installed by your local RV dealer or you can do it yourself using a kit. Finally, make a point of doing the following in the future:
- Make sure to empty your black tank at the appropriate times. Keep it from becoming overflowing and from being emptied too frequently
- This is a typical error. Because the weight of the contents makes it simpler to flush out if you empty it at the appropriate time when it is full, emptying it at the appropriate time when it is full is recommended. Only the best black tank treatments should be used. In addition to causing damage to the vent and drain pipe connections, using strong chemicals in your black tank can also cause damage to the black tank itself. To learn how to properly clean your RV black water tanks, read our tutorial on how to clean out an RV black water tank, which includes a step-by-step strategy. When it comes time to de-winterize your camper trailer, be proactive and double-check your connections.
Maintain the optimum emptiness of your black tank. Keep it from becoming overflowing and from being emptied too frequently since this is a typical error. Because the weight of the contents makes it simpler to flush out if you empty it at the appropriate time when it is full, you should empty it as soon as it is full. The best black tank treatments should be used. In addition to causing damage to the vent and drain pipe connections, using strong chemicals in your black tank can cause damage to your black tank as well.
When de-winterizing your camper trailer, be proactive and double-check your connections.
