Joker valve question - back-flow problem in my Jabsco Quiet Flush toilet

Jun 14, 2010
2,286
Robertson & Caine 2017 Leopard 40 CT
I have a slow back-flow problem in my Jabsco Quiet Flush electric toilet model 37245-1092. I replaced the joker valve and still have the problem. The joker valve I took out was slightly “open” similar to the new one that replaced it (see photo of new replacement). I had lubed the replacement inside and out with Teflon grease before installing, thinking that helps it seal and last longer. (I was a little concerned that the replacement showed gaps but since it was new I figured that’s the way it is, and that the back pressure of the water would keep it closed).
So my question is whether the replacement part was defective, or whether I should replace all the other parts in the service kit before assuming the problem was the joker valve? Some knowledgeable input would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.
Joker valve.jpg
 
Jun 14, 2010
2,286
Robertson & Caine 2017 Leopard 40 CT
I think it's defective. I just replaced my joker valve and there were no gaps.
Thanks - Does anyone know the part number of another brand 1" diameter check valve?

I just did a search on the part and found quite a few online reviews stating quality problems. Check valve alone is Jabsco part number 44106-1000.
I would rather avoid this. It's no fun changing joker valves. :(
 

jssailem

SBO Weather and Forecasting Forum Jim & John
Oct 22, 2014
22,754
CAL 35 Cruiser #21 moored EVERETT WA
Find a ship’s chandelier store front and go inside to examine their stock (like being your own QC) select a couple that meet your standard. Buy them and resupply your boat stores.

It is a scheme that has worked for centuries, before the advent of online shopping. Now it is a buy/return process. It requires you to kiss a lot of frogs to find your prince.
 
Jun 14, 2010
2,286
Robertson & Caine 2017 Leopard 40 CT
It is a scheme that has worked for centuries, before the advent of online shopping. Now it is a buy/return process. It requires you to kiss a lot of frogs to find your prince.
Unfortunately, nobody carries a deep inventory nearby, and it requires a lot of driving. The local WM is showing just one in stock, but I'll take your advice and go have a look.
 
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jssailem

SBO Weather and Forecasting Forum Jim & John
Oct 22, 2014
22,754
CAL 35 Cruiser #21 moored EVERETT WA
If you find 2 in the bin and they both match you need. Buy them both.

3 or more, that would be ridiculous. You‘ll just loose the extras somewhere in the boat. :biggrin:
 

higgs

.
Aug 24, 2005
3,704
Nassau 34 Olcott, NY
Make sure your vent hose is not plugged. Spiders can do this.
 
Jan 4, 2006
7,158
Hunter 310 West Vancouver, B.C.
and that the back pressure of the water would keep it closed).
I can remember the joker valves on my old Jabsco were slightly open and I never had a backflow problem. Installed a Raritan last year and also had a slight opening on the joker and thought nothing of it. Again no backflow. The flaps are so soft and flexible, all you need is an inch of water on the discharge to ensure they stay closed.

I would look elsewhere to find the cause.

Make sure your vent hose is not plugged. Spiders can do this.
This is a good place to start.
 
Mar 6, 2008
1,294
Catalina 1999 C36 MKII #1787 Coyote Point Marina, CA.
I recently stopped by at WM to pick up a joker valve. The attendant brought me a valve that had 1/8" openings in it that I thought it was odd. What stopped me from buying it was that it was an opened package and obviously returned. I picked up an other one and it was tightly closed in an unopened package. I believe it was manufacture defect.
 
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Nov 13, 2013
723
Catalina 34 Tacoma
What do you mean by "backflow problem"? I think the joker valve just prevents large chunks of nasty stuff backflowing not a complete seal. Sounds more like a wet/dry valve problem if the bowl is overflowing. But, I'm no expert, my Jabsco worked fine for 10 years.
 

capta

.
Jun 4, 2009
4,905
Pearson 530 Admiralty Bay, Bequia SVG
If memory serves, I went through your thought about the opening in a new valve and settled on the thing sealing properly once installed and the housing put the proper pressure on the valve to stay closed.
 
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Jun 14, 2010
2,286
Robertson & Caine 2017 Leopard 40 CT

NYSail

.
Jan 6, 2006
3,136
Beneteau 423 Mt. Sinai, NY
Also, remember the joker valve is inserted into a small hole that will compress it slightly which may close the valve completely.