Joker Valve

[Lee Hadjiosif]

Hi Peggie,I recently discovered a leak from the joker valve connection on my Jabsco manual head. The joker valve acts as a gasket as well and the flange holding it together is plastic, so I was concerned about breaking it if I tightened the bolts. I removed the joker valve and I'm wondering if I should buy a new one or caulk and reinstall. The valve looks OK except for a small pressure groove on the flange where it meets the pipe flange. Is this a normal maintenance item? Also, a local marine store is selling the whole head, pump and all for $99.00. Should I replace the whole thing at this time. Thanks, Lee HadjiosifCalalooH310

 

[Peggie Hall/Head Mistress]

A new joker valve costs about $8

If it hasn't been replaced in at least a couple of years, it's prob'ly overdue anyway. However, that may not be your problem. Before yu buy a new joker valve, check the pump housing where the discharge fitting bolts onto it for a hairline crack. Don't even think of use caulk or sealant of any kind on ANYthing in toilet (or anywhere else in a sanitation system). Rubber parts in toilets wear and require periodic replacement every few years. They're all available in "rebuild" or "repair" kits. Whether it's worth it to spend the better part of $50 for a kit to a put in toilet that can be replaced altogether is another matter. Average lifespan of a Jabsco manual is only about 5 years...a couple of years longer if it's scrupulously maintained and lubricated. So unless it's considerably younger than that, it may be time to catch a new toilet on sale.

 

[Colin]

Spend the $99

When sailing with guests aboard, there is nothing than knowing your head is going to work perfectly when required to. Buy the new head , it will install in about 10 mins.

 

[John J]

PH II

Spend about twice the price and buy a PH II. I replaced my Jabsco, and it is the best couple of hundred I have spent on this boat.John

 

[Steve Dion]

Amen, John J.

[nm]