Black tank odor

[Slydingman]

I have a used 2013 5er the first 2 times out were for 4 days each, 1 full hookup and 1 not there was no odor from any of the tanks this time out full hookup for 7 days after 3 days the odor was very strong so I drained the black tank odor was gone for about 1 day so I opened the black tank and left it open still have an odor. I use the packs in the tank to deodorize and break down I even changed brands still didn't help. Could it be from the campgrounds water? Any help will be appreciated.

[jgourlie]

I believe that when on full hookups that you should leave the black tank closed until it is absolutely full. With it being open all the time all the liquids drain out but the solids stay.

The other problem could be your toilet....what brand toilet do you have? if you go and smell the back of the toilet and the smell is strongest there, you toilet could be leaking

[Slydingman]

We had the tank closed for 3 days then drained it and tried leaving it open which didn't work either, the odor isn't stronger any one place and I can't see evidence of leaking on the ground

[wrvond]

First, ensure you always have water in the bowl. This will prevent the entry of odors into the space. Second, keep the drain valve closed until you are ready to dump the tank. Third, always use plenty of water when you flush.
Get a clear extension for your sewer line, then when you dump the tank for the final time make sure you flush it out. Get a wand and stick it down into the tank. Move it around to get all the areas you can rinsed off. You are not supposed to close the black tank valve when flushing it with the sprayer, but I do anyway in order to build up lots of water. The more water you use, the cleaner your tank will be. Finally, when the black tank is running clear (as seen through the clear extension) dump your grey tank. You might want to rinse it out as well if it doesn't run clear. Residual scraps, coffee, and such can rot in there, making for unpleasant conditions.
Finally, after all is flushed out and nice and clean, add a gallon or two of water (enough to cover the bottom of the tank) and your favorite chemical. I use some kind of citrus stuff I bought at WalMart that goes a long way.

[BCCamper]

I also hook up the trailer and pull it forward and back up a few feet to jostle it around after flushing the tank. Pull the drain one more time and watch what comes out! I had the same problem until I did that as well I ran the flush line for 15 mins with the valve closed a bit then open. It takes a bit to get a system that works for you


2002 Dodge Ram 2500

2015 Surveyor 321 BHTS