RV Toilet Problems, How to fix Thetford Aqua Magic 2 (RV Living) 4K

(UPDATE - replaced while base months later Thetford Aqua Magic 2 RV Toilet, Replace the Entire Base (RV Living) 4K
• Thetford Aqua Magic 2 ... ) After two years of full time RV living and traveling in our camper, our RV toilet had some problems that we needed to fix. The waste ball was not holding water, causing a smelly problem. Plus water was leaking at the back of the toilet when the foot pedal pushed to flush the toilet, which could cause water damage to the walls and floor of the trailer.
The Toilet in our Grand Design fifth wheel is a Thetford Aqua Magic Style 2 toilet, Model 42062 Bone color, with the tall base.
We repair two things in this easy how to video - replace the waste ball seal and replace the water Valve Seal. No more water leak and no more smell!
Chapters
0:00 Intro
1:30 Remove toilet
2:37 Separate base & bowl
3:24 Water Valve Seal
5:14 Waste Ball Seal
7:46 Re-Attach Base & Bowl
8:46 Re-Install toilet
10:23 Important Notes
Replacement parts mentioned in this video
Waste Ball replacement kit 43117 amzn.to/3nstgBe
Waste Ball Seal only kit 34120 amzn.to/3A5n9rr
Water Valve replacement kit 42049 amzn.to/3IdwwIj
Thetford entire Base replacement 42138 (tall , Bone color) amzn.to/3qvHLpA
Thetford Aqua Magic 2 entire Toilet 42062 Replacement amzn.to/3rr0q54
Danco Plumbers Grease amzn.to/3FCvOTo
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#rvliving #Aquamagic #Thetford #rvtoilet

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

UPDATE-replaced whole base months later (see newer video Thetford Aqua Magic 2 RV Toilet, Replace the Entire Base (RV Living) 4K kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y3i2pn-dg7iEbq8) Blog Article with Step by Step Instructions and links downsizingmakescents.com/rv-toilet/

[@champaignsunrise]

Another awesome video from you two (as usual)! We've been RVing for two years and we spend winters in the south in our Grand Design Imagine 2600rb now. I'm a retired mechanical engineer and a handyman, so I consider myself quite sufficient in repair and maintenance. With that being said, I have learned so much from your channel about the in's-n-out's of RVing in general, and so much about the care and maintenance of these very unique living spaces. Thanks for all the effort in these videos.

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Wow Wayne, thank you so much for your encouraging comments, especially from another Handy guy. I love to look up how to fix stuff on youtube and sometimes they skip the real detail that i need do understand how something works and how to fix it. I am trying to learn something new on each DIY video. Sometimes I get frustrated and dont want to do it anymore, but comments like yours really make me feel better about making these videos, hope to see you on the road someday. Larry

[@josephsullivan8401]

This video is BY FAR the best of several that I watched... The suggestions about things learned during the repair are excellent and I will follow this advice which will save time and make the job easier and better... THANK YOU!

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Thank you so much. But we made a newer video how we just replaced the base for just a bit more money. So much easier. Waste ball started to leak again kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y3i2pn-dg7iEbq8 And thank you so much for the compliment. Larry works hard on his videos 🤗

[@Thrashbang]

You sir are an absolute life saver, thank you so much for making such clear instructions!

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Glad we could help, but about 6 months later, it leaked again. Larry decided to switch out whole base. Not much more money and so with it. There’s a video about that 👍 Alice

[@szholm1]

After looking at a few videos on rebuilding the base, I decided to order the complete base, with all new parts. It will be here in a few days and I'm sure will be much easier to fix my toilet. Thanks for the detailed and easy to follow video.

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

That’s exactly what we did about 6 months later - another video 😁

[@sherriweber7105]

Thank you Larry and Alice for doing this DIY of cleaning out your toilet. I didn’t know you needed to do that like that. But now I do. I just hope other people know to do this to their toilet. Thank you again so much for this video. Have a great rest of the week and weekend and see you soon!

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Unfortunately plumbing fixes happen. We just hope this helps if it happens to someone else Alice

[@RVUNDERWAY]

Another perfect step-by-step instructional video, Larry. Great tips, too. Does look like a nasty job, but you made it look tolerable. Thanks again. Happy flushing!

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Hey Ricky and Barb, what’s up. This was definitely the nastiest job i have had to do since we went full time. Are you guys headed to the Tampa show this year, we will only be there on Tuesday, industry day i think. Let us know. Larry

[@markrobillard9018]

Great set of instructions. Allowed me to replace the leaking components in about 1/2 an hour. Now, like you I've got to decide if I should replace the whole bottom section after it started leaking again or buy a different brand of toilet. However your instructions on how to do the repairs were the best I've seen on KZbin. Thanks

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

About a year later, we replaced the whole base. There’s another video for that. Next? I want a whole different brand

[@annabellabells6647]

Thank you so much for making this content. Your straight to the point and still manage to get so much useful information in under 15 minutes.

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

We try. But we have a later video where we replaced whole base. Check it out

[@JosephBrown83805]

Great video Larry! I’ve already done the seal kit replacement in our 2017 Jayco last summer since it wouldn’t keep any water in the bowl. I will certainly keep this in a playlist since you did an entire rebuild! We haven’t had a valve leak “yet” but when it does, thanks to you, I’ll know what to do! Thank you, again!

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Thanks for the compliment Joseph, the valve seal isn’t really designed well. One of the things that happened to us that I didn’t say in the video was, the valve got stuck and overfilled the bowl and spilled all over the floor, luckily it was just water. We were home at the time so we noticed it. That is one of the reasons i shut off our water at the spigot if we are leaving the RV for any length of time over an hour or so. Larry

[@bobhewlett3633]

Another excellent how to video. Good explanation of how the toilets are constructed and how they operate. Thanks.

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Bob, it’s a common model with common problems so we hope this helps, Alice

[@rogerdahn2606]

This video is GREAT! Very clear, detailed instructions with the video to show every step. I had to replace the 'waste ball' due to the original screw through the 'waste ball drive arm' being too tight or large. It had split the plastic. Not the best toilet design but this video was extremely useful. Thanks Larry!

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

The next time I just replaced the entire base instead of dealing with a dirty waste ball. Larry

[@suru7777]

Thank you so much for this video. Our toilet base started to leak and the dealer couldn't figure out why. They said the toilet needed to be replaced to the tune of $500!!!! A new toilet on Amazon would cost around $200.00 or we could order parts and try to figure out what was broken. But after watching your very informative and well-done video we saw that we could just order the base (it now costs $90.00 on Amazon) and replace that. So that's what we did and it was super easy. THANK YOU!

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Yes. We actually made another video when the toilet failed again. So we ordered a new base - wish we did that from the beginning

[@amyheflin143]

Larry, you are a guru of RV maintenance!

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

He really is 😉

[@l.t.phillips6684]

Outstanding video. Clear organized info. Well presented. I was able to repair my Thetford waste ball drive arm by myself. Thank you

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Glad to hear that. Unfortunately, about 6 months later, we replaced the whole base - it leaked again

[@baker48man]

Excellent job! I took ours out just to clean and soon realized that the buildup in the inside of the base was not easy to clean. A biochemist friend reminded me that the buildup was the calcium in the water and the calcium in the poop! He suggested using a wood stick to scrap it off. After about an hour of trying every chemical in the arsenal, Ajax andgreen scratcher pads, I tried the stick idea and he was right. It's like scraping barnacles off a boat! Looks beautiful now.

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

We ended up trashing it - another video - because it started to leak again. We got a whole new base

[@dinobot87]

Best step by step video on the tube, thanks, Larry!!!!

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

That is quite a compliment 🤗 Larry really does love a good DIY

[@user-on4oy9jq1x]

Thank you! Your tip to download the Troubleshooting document from Thetford was very helpful. Also, the tip to simply replace the base to me is the best advice. Plastic parts will wear out, icky cleaning adverted.

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Glad we could help We wound up making another video about replacing the base

[@johndernberger1961]

Larry, You always amaze me! Great detailed info and filming. My pedal has a small intermittent leak and this video will be of great assistance.

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

John, you don’t need to take the toilet off for just the leak as long as you have room. And thanks. Let us know how it goes, Alice

[@cpwatching5647]

Well done video!! I have repaired a few in my day. I think my boat and RV have the same model you just repaired. Super helpful!! Take care.

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Thanks. It’s a pretty common model. So we hope this helps someone in time, Alice

[@willbarnes6602]

Just what I need. Thanks. Best how-to video on any topic I’ve ever watched.

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Wow. Thanks. This is how Larry likes to make videos. Unfortunately, this is the last video he made before he became ill. We hope he’s back at it soon 🤗

[@willbarnes6602]

@@DownsizingMakesCents Sorry to learn Larry is I’ll. Hope it isn’t the Covid thing though everyone seem to have gotten these days.

[@HoneyandMe]

Bravo, Larry! Last winter, enough water got stuck in the water line to the toilet in Honey that it froze and split. Only to be discovered when we were setting up Honey for my son to stay in while visiting us. The toilet became a fountain when we turned on the pump! Lol! In the end it was the motivator to remove the toilet and put in a cassette toilet. Now, I'm leaning towards building my own composting toilet in Honey.

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Susan, oh woah. That’s definitely a motivator. We have thought about a composting toilet. We shall see. Stay warm in your cabin, Alice

[@iglapsu88]

Really great job! Extremely thorough and helpful.

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Thanks. Larry really wanted to make sure this will help anyone fix these common problems, Alice

[@yobD3]

Thank you for posting this, it not only helped identify my fb toilet, but it also tells me how to fix the 2 issues that I have going in as well. Now, to find someone that I can hire to do it for me!

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Well, months later there was a leak again. So, we replaced the whole base. There’s another video.

[@pj5883]

Appreciate your instructional videos so much! You are a great teacher. Thank you!

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Thanks very much PJ, I tried something a little different in this video to try to make more concise, i failed it was too long, but I couldn’t help myself putting in a lot of detail which is more information then most people need. Thanks very much for your feedback and encouragement. Larry

[@japerritt]

You guys are so helpful. Love your SP campground videos, and now your repair videos. We are at Wekiwa sp now with a leaking valve. I'm off to order my kit next!

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Thanks for letting us know that we are helpful. It keeps us going

[@shelleypakenham9129]

Thanks Larry. We are thankful for your teaching. Hi Alice✋. We can't wait to get camping booked for Ontario parks starting in April.

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Shelley, hey. Glad we could help. And we loved camping in Ontario 2 summers ago. Love the Ontario provincial parks. We never did videos about those PPs. We regret that, Alice

[@tomWare-yn2de]

Great video. Step by step process was easy to follow. The tips at the end were helpful. Thank you.

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Unfortunately, we had to throw it away and get a new base a few months later. We have a video for that

[@gregmann7936]

Hi Larry, Thanks for the video. I broke the round plastic wiper or blade trying to remove it. Thankfully your video shows me that there is a screw holding the driven side!!! athanks again for a great video. Greg

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Glad we could help

[@BikesBoatsBivouacs]

With this video I would be willing to try this type of repair. Without your video I would be inclined to just buy another toilet. Good information Larry. Nice job.

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Scott, thanks. Larry really tries to make it look simple. Sounds like he did. Alice

[@lisamcgrath3132]

Thanks again Larry for a VERY important how to video. My hubby Mike had to replace some parts in our foot pedal of our toilet last year. He always says he hates anything with plumbing🤪 Hi Alice🤗

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Hey 👋 Believe me, working on toilets is not fun no matter where it is. I’d like an all porcelain toilet, but this was an inexpensive fix for now, Alice

[@markharvey7988]

Thanks for the video, I just finished replacing the same parts on my Thetford Style II toilet and used your video as a "helper" to double check my reassembly. From what I observed the 2 toilets are, for all practical purposes identical. Well, mine wasn't as clean as yours in the video. Anyway, nice job! I did come across one thing that you didn't mention: lime scale. It was around all the contact points that the seals met the porcelain and waste ball. I'm convinced that after only 2 short years it was scale build-up that compromised the seals. But that's my opinion. This is my 2nd trailer with identical Thetford toilets, my other one I changed the waste ball seal when I first got it and never had another issue. Thanks again for the informative video and keep 'em coming.

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

I agree it’s the scale is what causes the leaky seals. The water quantity at most campgrounds is crapy hard water. I cleaned mine a bunch before I filmed, haha. Larry

[@philipnguyen7449]

Love it, the most clearly video step by step, I have seen

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Thanks. But unfortunately, months later we threw the base away. That’s another video 😁

[@genemorris3851]

Great video Larry. I had a leaking water valve in ours. The one thing that needs to be mentioned is to be very careful removing the flush peddle. If it doesn't come straight off the base, you could have the spring, be dislodged and it is extremely hard to put it right. After 2 hours and banged up hands I gave up and ordered a new base. Which is what I should have done in the first place. Thanks again for the video it inspired me to replace the base.

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

I did another toilet video where i just replaced the whole base, its not worth it to fix all those parts, deal with the handle spring and the mess. Larry

[@OurlifeWhirlwind]

We now have a leaking toilet. It is not completely stopping the water flow into the toilet after the flush. So far it has only overflowed once. Even though it was clean water that overflowed, once is still enough. We are discussing now whether to rebuild the Thetford or go all in on a Dometic 320 series. We'll let you know! Thanks for the great tutorial!!

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Hey, we actually made another video where we bought a whole new base. It fixed the problem but I wish I got a whole new upgraded toilet - but that’s just me (Alice, of course) 😉

[@missionswithluna]

Great video, we having the same problem with ours but our rig is only 10 months old. We do live in it full time but didn’t think it would go bad so soon.

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Our waste ball had been leaking for a while, causing a bad smell but the leaking valve just started recently, water damage in our RV is one of our worst nightmares so we took care of it right away. The valve can also stick causing the bowl to overfill after flushing, which can be a messy cleanup. Larry

[@TheOldSailorGMC]

Larry great video, just replaced our domestic toilet. It called for toqueing the hold down bolts to 14 inch pounds. Again great job.

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Hey Larry, I didn’t see any torque specs in the thetford installation manual but it is important not to over torque these plastic bases or they will crack. Larry

[@TheOldSailorGMC]

@@DownsizingMakesCents Your right, it took me about an hour to find an installation guide for my dometic toilet. And again great job keep em coming. Larry

[@daviddion3731]

Best fix I’ve found for Thepford toilets is the Dometic 320 toilet. Solves all the problems discussed here. Just my experience.

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

David, actually, I wanted to get a whole new toilet, but that’s a lot more money. Thanks for giving the recommendation, Alice

[@ronratcliff7732]

great video - big help

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Ron, thank you. We have a follow up video - should be link in pinned comment and description- that shows it’s worth it to just change the whole base. Check it out, Alice

[@1jw769]

Great video. Thanks.

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

We actually did a second video where we replaced the whole base - much better. Alice

[@mattlebsack9710]

I love your videos. I also have a Solitude and regularly download your videos for reference in the event I have to do the same repair. Thanks!

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Matt, thanks for letting us know. We figure this video will only appeal to those that have a problem. Good idea to save the video for the future. Maybe all GD owners should do this 😉 Alice

[@mattscott8194]

Yes Larry makes very informative videos. I would like to download them for future reference but I have not figured out how to save them. This is a great video Larry and I will be doing this sooner than later.

[@billk8817]

Thank you Larry. I went on vacation and paid some ladies to clean my Jayco. When I came back the toilet didn't seal. I think they must have really done a number on the waste ball.The toilet no longer held water. I replaced the waste ball seal and everything went fine but when I had the toilet off I think something got out of whack because the foot pedal action was no longer smooth. Thanks to you, it is easier to pay the $90 and get a whole new base. I could attempt an RV toilet valve replacement (all that stuff under the foot press) but I think I will hit it out of the park and do the whole shootin' match in smooth move. Once again, thanks.

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Sorry that happened. Actually, we recently made a video showing we threw the whole base away because the ball valve started not to work again. So worth the extra money Let us know how it goes

[@robertgeiser7512]

My spring was messed up when would up it would sit in the notch on the toilet, but once I put the flush pedal on, it would bring the spring out of the notch, when I took the pedal off the spring unloaded and busted my hand up good. I got it back together but next time she gets a whole new base. Thanks for the details

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Yes it is so much easier and less messy to replace the base, im thinking of switching toilets if it happens again. Larry

[@Limey350Z]

I just tried fixing mine and the spring also came off. I got lucky it didn't hit my hand. New base has been ordered. I'm sure I will see that spring again in my nightmares.

[@SevenBears1]

Another quality informational video that will help us all . Too bad about Alice's tooth brush.. Thanks DMC

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

🤣 oh, no. Not much toothbrush 🪥 Old toothbrushes are so handy. Thanks. Larry Lessons really are handy. We sure wish we just bought a mew plastic base 😏 Alice

[@SevenBears1]

@@DownsizingMakesCents I want to replace my current toilet with an oblong one..Current one is a little too small.

[@chrisbordage6332]

Great video but 1 mistake. I confirmed with Thetford that the small end of conical spring for the water valve (part # 42049) goes into the rubber seal. So that means that the wide end of the spring fits into the toilet base first followed by the rubber cap seal.

[@brianbiggs3484]

Great video , very informative 👍👍🇨🇦✌️🇨🇦✌️🇨🇦🔧🔧

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Thanks. Unfortunately, it was a temporary fix. We replaced the whole base - that’s another video

[@markmackall5819]

GOOD WORK 👍 THANKS 4 THE VIDEO

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Mark, not something anyone wants to watch unless they really need to 🤣 But we hope this video helps for those who need it in the future, Alice

[@kcashmore2988]

My toilet had the same problem. KZbin videos are awesome. Here the direction I went, I thought due to age I might as well just buy the complete base...$70 to $80 but wait! I had credit on my account by using my prime card! The base after tax $35.00!! Cheaper than even buying the parts alone..pretty happy over

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

That’s awesome. We actually made another video after this one showing we replaced the whole base. So much better 😁 Alice

[@rickgriffith1]

Another lesson for the LL playlist. 👌🏼😎

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Rick, that Larry Lesson list is getting pretty long 😉 Alice

[@rickgriffith1]

@@DownsizingMakesCents Indeed it is.😎

[@thetravelingbrowns]

We might just have to buy a new toilet on this one but, EXCELLENT video!😏

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Jenna, I wish we got a whole new one - or at least a new base (pretty inexpensive for just the base). Larry likes to fix things. But next time? New toilet for sure 😁 Alice

[@thetravelingbrowns]

@@DownsizingMakesCents lol😁

[@nelsonyork8905]

Very good video question, conflicting reports the flange seal the way I read it on the instructions, flat side down to the subfloor flange, bevel side up to the toilet pedestal

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Yes. He followed instructions. He just turned it to show in the video the parts. But he actually had to buy a whole new base because the fix didn’t last. We have another video for that kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y3i2pn-dg7iEbq8

[@dangeekman858]

I will second this video - I did the replacement of just the seal in between the bowl and base. The seal that I got was not a good quality one - it wasn't OEM - it caused more problems then the flapper activator part broke causing us not to be able to flush. Thankfully, I could still get a pair of Channel Locks in to activate it manually until Amazon delivered the replacement base the next day. Re-installation of the base, vs cleaning things up prior (YUCK) was way, way simpler. The only thing I hate is the screws at the back of the toilet - I didn't do my installation outside, I did it all in the bathroom and got real close and personal trying to get those damn screws back in. In the end though, I'm happy, the toilet works and our full-time RV life can continue. Thanks for making this video!

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

I’m glad you got it worked out, our 2nd video we just replaced the entire base like you did, it didn’t cost that much more, thank you for sharing your experience. Larry

[@gcmmflagcmmfla1223]

What are the extra parts for in the 34120 kit? Where do the 4 plastic washers go (unless they are for a different model?) and extra drive arm rubber ring? So no rubber ring goes on the far side? (there was not one on on disassembly)

[@carlwhite4400]

Great video and channel. We too have a GD 310 GK, nice rig, but as anyone who has any RV knows things break. Thanks for sharing. I looked through some of your playlists and noticed you have replaced the Thomas Payne seats. My wife is tried of listing to one side and would like to get something else, any ideas.

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Carl, thanks for the great compliment. We put our real leather couch in from our house. I wouldn’t put in anything but leather because the other stuff seems to degrade very quickly Let us know what you get. Curious 🤗 Alice

[@MingoMoon]

Thank you for your detailed explanation, I have to take on this task as the bowl is not holding water. With expectations that I would need to do this eventually, I had purchased the seal. Now I just need to take time and do it. Not looking forward to it for sure!

[@leapnlarry]

We are actually coming up with a video tomorrow where I recommend replacing the entire base of the toilet instead of replacing the parts it’s $30 more but it’s a lot less messy if you know what I mean

[@MingoMoon]

@@leapnlarry well I just found out today that a little bit of plumbers grease will help stop the leak at least temporarily until I can get to a place where the weather is cooler and I can work on it. Unfortunately I found a new leak coming from my kitchen sink side underbelly very small leak and that side also has a defective gray water tank gate that allows water to leak into the line and perhaps there is a bad connection in this area that is allowing this same water to leak and drip to the ground. After I let the water out of the drain pipe it seems to have stopped dripping so my hypothesis is that it’s not from the tank itself 🙏 but after the gray water gate along the pipe, that is something I could tackle and fix, a leak from a cracked tank I could not.

[@johncurrent1660]

Thx

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

We have a newer video where we replaced the whole base months later

[@Reeltinyphish]

I changed my entire toilet out awhile back. Surprised how simple it was to do.

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Chad, I really do wish we bought a different model, but we saved some money. Maybe next time, Alice

[@ericmcdonald9735]

thanks for the video. Toilet started running at the same time the refrigerator went out. I'll take the advice and replace the base. Not sure what to do about the 12v refrig.

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Eric, we definitely wish we just replaced the base to begin with. Much cleaner job 😁 As for 12V fridge? We just got our first one - no issues yet 🤞 Good luck, Alice

[@ericmcdonald9735]

@@DownsizingMakesCents Turns out I just replaced the water value and leak stopped. 12v refrig was just loose wires in the back. Definitely could not have done the toilet without watching the video step by step as I followed along. The pedal was the hardest part. Thanks so much for the video! Keep RVing!

[@shellbobaround]

Awesome

[@triples6959]

Thanks for the great video. Question: Is there a seal on the driven side of the waste ball? Also, what are your thoughts on periodically applying some plumbers lube to the bottom of the seal for the waste ball - I wondered if you could open the ball, smear some lube on the bottom of the seal (with gloves on) to keep it lubed and sealing...

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

We talked to a Therford guy at the Tampa show and he talked about the lube. I can’t really answer your questions and Larry can’t right now. Sorry. Try to reach out in a week or so. Alice

[@reem46490]

Good video. Up to the 'If I had to do it over again' part, I was wondering if you were the guy who designed this service procedure for Thetford. Good job.

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Thank you. 😁 check out our later video where we threw the base away and got a new one Not Thetford fans.

[@reem46490]

@@DownsizingMakesCents uh oh. I hope my luck is better than yours 😬

[@winnhorton7467]

Hi, Larry. My wife and I own a 310GK, too, with the same fixtures. As I was flushing, a part came flying out at me and the ball valve shut only 3/4 of the way. I did some research and found it could be the ball valve drive arm had broken...the part that fits into the pedal. After looking at the exploded parts list, I was pretty sure and about to tear into the base area. Even tho I haven't 'eyed' mine yet, looking at your video, I was close to 100% sure it was that arm. I couldn't find and order the arm by itself, so I ordered the complete base. Looks like an easy fix once I get it. Thanks for the video, and I hope your treatments for MOGAD are helping greatly.

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Hey Winn, the arm on our original base was broken where the spring connects, unfortunately you can’t buy just the arm you have to get the whole base, larry

[@winnhorton7467]

@@DownsizingMakesCents I saw your leak thru your video. I'm so glad you filmed that. Made my job much, much easier. The base should arrive at my location this coming Monday, 9/26. BTW, while living in Florida, I used to service the anesthesia and medical equipment at Shands. Best wishes.

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

@@winnhorton7467 putting the entire base on is so much easier than fixing the toilet. that’s funny, I used to be a surgical device rep at Shands. Larry

[@Powerstroke98]

What I found to be a simple fix for the water not staying around the ball, is to turn off the water to the toilet, put on a pair of latex gloves, and while pushing on the flush mechanism, spread 'plumbers grease' on the rubber ring, as best you can, both top and bottom of the rubber ring! Turn on the water, and see if it holds. Works for us any time I feel the water level seems to drop!d

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Thank you for your fix. We eventually had to replace the whole base - it’s in another video.

[@aaronwallace4512]

I really love the walktrhough and watched it multiple times while replacing my wasteball. I used the WEHOPE kit with the ball included. However... the replacement ball is just a hair too short to make an easy seal. Now when I flush I have to make sure that I let it snap shut at full force or push up on the pedal to get the seal to hold water. Not sure it its user install error or if the ball kit is just poorly designed with little room for variance. Have you heard anyone else having this issue?

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

This kit is a lot cheaper than the Thetford. So it may not fit as well. We ended up replaced the whole base - we made another video about that because of the same issue

[@toddeckert1643]

I have tried different ways to replace the flush valve. I have the same toilet as you. I have a 2020 Grand Design 380fl. I can't seem to get the o ring to stay put. It slides up and gets a little squished out when I flush the toilet. It leaks real bad. I have tried grease and not put it all the way to the top of the plastic part. Did not stop leak. I tried to put it to the top as another KZbin said to do and did not help. I feel I might just replace the whole toilet. Do you have any recommendations? Anything will help. Lucky for us we have a second bathroom as we are full time stationary. Thanks for your videos. We enjoy them.

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

I did a video where i replaced the whole base. Instead of $50 in parts it was $80 the the entire base will all the parts. Thetford Aqua Magic 2 RV Toilet, Replace the Entire Base (RV Living) 4K kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y3i2pn-dg7iEbq8 Larry

[@AE-nr9on]

Great video. I just installed the water valve kit and the waste ball kit. Unfortunately, my new waste ball and seal are leaking ( the bowl doesn’t hold water) . I followed the instructions which followed your video. Any suggestions as to how to get my new kit to work?

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

I think what happened when you reassemble the ball to the base. If the waist ball seal shifts just a little bit, it will leak I recommend pulling the bowl off again and making sure the seal is centered. I keep extra seals on hand, because sometimes this happens, the seal gets damaged and it’s better to just put a new one on.Larry

[@AE-nr9on]

Thx Larry. I did struggle to get it where I thought it was centered to begin with . I added more plumbers grease and that helped slow the leak but didn’t stop it. I’ll try replacing the seal again. I’ve also had trouble getting the base to fully seat to the floor without wobbling. I keep retightening the nuts but it still wobbles. I think the closet seal is too rigid. I had two to choose from and I chose the one that was more dense. I’ll probably switch it out too to see if the softer one seats better.

[@djflook9465]

Fantastic video and advise Larry (& Alice)! Just this morning while we were flushing our tanks- I was refilling the black water by blocking open the flush ball- and we noticed this action caused a big water leak to come from the top of the shroud. Below/between the china bowl on the FRONT side. Ball does hold water; no leaks from behind or around valve or water inlet. What needs replaced to fix this? I appreciate your knowledge and come here first when diagnosing issues! I absolutely love when you have the actual brand we are dealing with!

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

I dont understand where the water is coming from, the floor and the plastic base, or between the plastic base and the bowl. There are rubber gaskets for each to keep a tight seal. Let me know. Larry

[@djflook9465]

@@DownsizingMakesCents in the middle. Above the shroud below the bowl; and at the front. And only leaks while holding the flush open. So if you look at the front of the toilet- right on the line/crack (I was trying to avoid using that word- there is no crack in the porcelain or the front of the shroud- just between where they seat/ connect.) I hope that makes more sense.

[@travisbeach338]

@@djflook9465 ours is doing the exact same thing as yours. I just ordered a new toilet today as I don't feel like replacing the seals as what if it doesn't fix the problem

[@djflook9465]

@TravisBeach we ordered the bottom half of the toilet as Larry suggested in his second video. It replaces all but the bowl itself with new everything. Got through the season with the annoying once in a blue moon leak. Just kept a folded paper towel in front of toilet. When damp/wet replace. Weirdly; not that often!

[@travisbeach338]

@@djflook9465 That's what I was afraid of happening to us That's why I just pulled the trigger and bought the same toilet new on Amazon today for $188

[@mattlebsack9710]

Could Larry share how he attached the bayonet cap to the barker? I can’t tell what that pink piece is & what glue was used 🙏🏻. Thanks

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Hey Matt, I need to do a video on how i attached the fitting on top of the tote to hold the 4 in one angled connector. I 3D printed a piece that holds an upside down cap to attach the bayonet connector. I think i show it in more detail in one of my three sewer tote videos but i cant remember which one. Larry

[@stevemcilvain33]

Getting ready to do that this week. Ordered complete base. Would you recommend taking it apart anyhow to lubricate what I assume was just assembled dry from factory, and two, will “O” ring lube work just as well as what you've shown on video? Excellent video also.

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Steve, sorry. I wish I could answer. We try to answer every comment but Larry isn’t feeling well I hope you get the info. Maybe call Thetford? Alice

[@ndhyree]

@@DownsizingMakesCents I’ve just “discovered” your videos, and hope Larry feels better soon!

[@roberto.peterson9917]

Suggestion install a water control value in the supply line so next time can isolate toilet and still have water for other needs toilet repairs seem to be something that's going to be repeated over time may want to order extra repair kit just incase happen when parts are back ordered

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

The next time i have to mess with the toilet, i will put a shut off valve inline. Larry

[@medeatatum6468]

We have the same toilet in our 2020 Reflection. We have a problem with the foot peddle. When we flush the toilet, you then have to lift up on peddle to get it to seal.

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

If The waste ball is sticking, you may be able to add some plumbing grease to the waste ball seal to get it to close better, but you probably need to replace the seal. Larry

[@medeatatum6468]

@@DownsizingMakesCents Thanks! I will try the plumbers grease first.

[@bptraveler6608]

You can fix the leaking around the Ball by putting some Plumbers Grease on underside of the seal where it meets the Ball. You can also fix the valve by putting Danco Waterproof Grease on that little black seal, on the O ring and on the bottom of the valve where it meets the seal.

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

I agree a littl plumbers grease once in a while goes a long way to keeping it from leaking. Larry

[@pigybak]

I have the same potty. I’ll call you when mine breaks 😉.

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Larry charges by how dirty it is 💰 Alice

[@wally1957]

My Aqua Magic Plus waste ball was opening and closing but it was sticking or not moving smoothly so I just added Vaseline to the top side of the plastic valve without any disassembly and bam solved that problem. Just thought your viewers my enjoy this quick fix.

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

I wouldnt use a petroleom based lube like that, it will eat the rubber seal,, use a silicone plumbers lube instead that keeps the ball sliding well. Larry

[@chucknSC]

Mine has the model label on the back at the bottom. You will need your phone or mirror to read it before you remove the potty. These vacuum breaker valves are notorious for spitting water out every flush unless you replace them. Cash flow…..

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Chuck, luckily we had the original manual with the RV We didn’t have an issue with our vacuum breaker. But that would have been an easier fix Alice

[@steveunverzagt57]

Replaced seals on my toilet but I can't get the flush handle to stay on. Keeps popping off when I turn it a quarter turn. Seams like spring is pushing it off. Any ideas why?

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Mine was acting the same way the second time i replaced the entire base, without the mess. Thetford Aqua Magic 2 RV Toilet, Replace the Entire Base (RV Living) 4K kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y3i2pn-dg7iEbq8 Larry

[@01mymichi]

We discovered our Thetford 42137 leaking between top of the base and China bowl. What parts should we replace?

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Lisa, check out our later video about this toilet - we replaced the whole base because the fix didn’t last long Link to that video in our pinned comment Alice

[@01mymichi]

@@DownsizingMakesCents Thank you for your quick response, much appreciated!

[@mariannesantos4618]

I put the water hose in my toilet to clean we're the poop 💩 goes down n now the water won't go down? I have a 1997 holiday rv 5wheel

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Sometimes if you get a blockage, you have to use a long stick to push down the blockage into the tank. its a nasty job but has to be done. Larry

[@redcauthen771]

I had this problem with the waste ball actuary lever breaking, could get parts and just replace it. Wish I would have kept the old one and fixed later cause I ended up with a plastic bowl. 🤬🤬🥵

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

This toilet the aqua magic residence style 2 is actually a pretty good rv toilet. For some reason the individual parts are expensive to replace but the entire base cost is reasonable. Our waste ball lever is about to break, it was sticking really bad. Larry

[@collins9399]

I’m experiencing as small leak at the base. I installed a new base kit and everything was fine for 2 days

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

We have another video where we put in a new base. Leaks still on and off

[@roberto.peterson9917]

I'd toilet look at bottom of base there may be a manufacturer model number sticker

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

There are model numbers on the base. Larry

[@user-dl3mu7xl8j]

Your video was informative but you said NOTHING about being aware of the spring on the foot lever, which came off during my rebuild, it was a pain to re-install, wish I had know about the spring

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

I’m sorry you missed it in the video, aligning the spring is a pain, I recently had to remove the arm to re-grease tge valve, my second video recommends just replacing the whole base for $30 more dollars. Larry

[@josephbieberly8624]

Too everyone whom attempts this......good luck because you're going to need it. I just ended getting a new toilet because of the repair nightmare. I even took everything to a large RV business and they couldn't get it together. Just a warning to everyone.

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

You can get a whole new base assembled on Amazon for $80 I did another video on it , Thetford Aqua Magic 2 RV Toilet, Replace the Entire Base (RV Living) 4K. Larry Thetford Aqua Magic 2 RV Toilet, Replace the Entire Base (RV Living) 4K

[@01AceAlpha]

To answer the first question, you were praying to the Porcelain god. Lol

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

😝 We knew someone would go there 😉 Alice

[@SmallSpaceLiving]

Ok first question is whose toothbrush was that, your or Alice’s? Next question comes from Jessica and she wants to know why you are not wearing gloves for that crappy job? Lol We also did not see rags on the floor for that water runoff. Hahaha Sorry had to do that. I think you like that word “waste ball”. Lol Yes tight nuts are very important. Glad you got your pooper fixed. I am lazy. I would have just bought a new one and moved on. Lol. Nice DIY y’all.

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

William, Larry’s toothbrush of course 😉 Old toothbrushes are great for cleaning. We made a few mistakes, for sure. Lots of rags needed. I really want a whole new toilet, but that’s big bucks. But next time we will at least buy the whole plastic unit instead. It was a nasty, smelly job Alice

[@pigybak]

Everybody is thinking it. I’m gonna say it. That was a $hitty job!!!

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

🤣 I can always count on you. But somebody has to do it. Better Larry than you, Alice

[@arminius301]

just purchased and had a new thetford toilet delivered. I'm looking at the inside of the cavity: there is an 8-10" clear path from the waste ball to the actual inlet of the toilet. In other words if you plant an 8" trout there is a real chance that it will not just fall straight and cleanly into the flange! Who in the shiznit thought of this ridiculous design other than an engineer at Thetford who clearly had their head up their backside! WTF? Now I'm contemplating whether to go through the trouble of returning this lowlife designed toilet or purchase something that was engineered by Wernher Von Braun. Shame on the knuckleheads at Thetford for causing an RV'er to have to go through this!!!

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

I agree , these things are poorly designed, but they work effectively most of the time, but need a lot of maintenance, and if you drop a big load often, better make sure it made it through, haha. I have always wanted to put a camera down the toilet into the black tank to see what its like but i would have to toss the camera after it, it would be really messy. Larry

[@georgeblank2648]

Never use pliers to remove a nut

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

When you travel full time, you use what you have

[@seymourscagnetti1413]

The cruddy build up in your toilet is due to a lack of fiber in your diet. Try to add leafy greens and fair amount of legumes to your daily diet. You may also want to add a once a month powerful chemical laxative to your routine just to get things properly "flowing". Cheers and good luck.

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Thanks for the advice. But Larry has very complicated medical issues and has a Gastro dr, a RA dr, and now a Neuro disease specialist- he was recently diagnosed with MOG at Shands. But we always love comments that may help others who read them 🤗

[@seymourscagnetti1413]

@@DownsizingMakesCents Please give Larry my best regards. I turned 65 this year and the medical issues seem to just pile up one after the other. Also, extremely important, I forgot to mention what a great job Larry did on the video/tutorial, it really helped me out with my Thetford Aquamagic ii repair. Before the plandemic 19 virus, Amazon had a complete Thetford base for $39. I should have ordered it. Again, give Larry my best regards. Cheers!

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

@@seymourscagnetti1413 thank you. I will. Larry does regret not buying the whole base. Would make it easier. And yes - old age definitely has its drawbacks. Take care 🤗

[@jimmaltese8513]

Use gloves next time 🥴

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Jim, when it was the dirty part of the job, he did. It’s in the video, Alice

[@algau5025]

Great video , and YES i am a subscriber to your channel , great tips , Thank you !

[@DownsizingMakesCents]

Awesome, thank you!