Protecting the dump valves

[FatBuoy]

I'm shocked, quite frankly, that the RV makers don't protect the PVC spaghetti coming from the black/grey tanks. That seems like the weakest link, from a hitting something and ruining your day perspective. I mean, I realize there are WAY more expensive things like the oil pans for the engine and trans, but busting off the purge valves could get very messy, and mess up a trip easily. And they definitely hang the lowest. Has anyone investigated a skid plate system? Is there a reason for not doing this?

[chin_k]

When I was working on the MorRyde, I jacked up the back and put a jack stand on it. When I was done with the MorRyde, I removed the jack stand, etc., and somehow, I end up putting a stand right on the PVC between the tank and the valve, and lowered the rig completely. I realized what happened, I fanatically pumped the jack to get it back up again. I think I did hear a pop sound, but so far, I don't think there is any leak.

Not that I suggest anyone to use the dump valve as a place for us to put the car jack on, but it is tougher than you think. With that said, I would be very careful when I drive over a sharp curb, since when the back wheels jump over it, the top of the curb may hit the dump valves, and completely crush them.

[Blue~Go]

I'm shocked, quite frankly, that the RV makers don't protect the PVC spaghetti coming from the black/grey tanks. That seems like the weakest link, from a hitting something and ruining your day perspective.

Yes, but RV makers for the most part make them for driving power-post hookup to power-post hookup on paved roads - including our Concourses/Premiers (Perhaps some of the new cool Sprinter based AWD ones do better?).

On our Chinooks, I find it's the trailer hitch that tends to drag (at least it's steel!). Not that there'd be any harm in protecting the dump valves (as long as you could still operate them and replace them).

[FatBuoy]

I did get under there to investigate. The issue I saw, is that there isn't any type of solid structure directly above them. I was hoping the frame would be above it. You could then, fairly easily, fab up a skid and have it welded in place. I'll keep thinking. Gravity is the obvious reason they sit so low. Shit flows downhill....