RV Repair: Holding Tank Valve, needle nose pliers, tank drain

Question
When I pull the release handle it comes out but it seams like it does not dump. The tank is full of waste. I am woundering if it could be broken.
What do I do if that is the case? Could it be something else.

Answer
Paddy:
Sounds like the handle has come loose from the part of the valve, the gate, that opens the drain. This happens often. In order to fix it you need to put in a new valve. The way we do this when the tank is full is to cut off an inch or so of the end of the valve housing. After you take that and the valve rod out you will be able to see the gate of the valve. Reach in with a pair of needle nose pliers and pull the gate open. Do not pull it all the way out as you will get a big leak. If it is a 3 inch valve pull it out towards you about 2 inches and let the tank drain. When the tank is empty you can change the valve without too much of a mess. Make sure the seals are in correctly or they will leak or maybe even crack the plastic as you tighten the screws. Good luck.
Bill