We have the standard Thetford toilet in our Jayco. After years of problem free use it now smells (as if it is not sealing like it used to) Is there a seal that can be replaced or other maintenance required. We never got a book or any info with it when we bought the van new.

I have no experience with these, but have a look here.
There may be a manual for your model.

http://www.thetford.com/HOME/CUSTOMERSUPPORT/ProductManuals/tabid/265/Default.aspx

Hi LV
Ours got a bit smelly and I took it out and cleaned around the inside of the cavity then washed out the cassette thoroughly with water, vinigar and bi-carb. As we were not using it for a while I let it sit with that for a few days. I then used a product which I buy commercially called Springtime which is a commercial grade dissenfectant and cleaning agent and is bio-degradable. Any strong one will do.
I then use the napisan concoction in the cassette along with a few drops of washing up deturgent for lubrication of the rubber seals.

If this doesn't work you may need new seals and being rubber they are sure to deteriorate.

Good luck

We had a similar problem with ours last year whilst in Darwin - toilet started to smell a bit and noticed that the seal wasn't sealing like it should.
Bought a new seal from BCF (I think it was) and problem solved - cost about $25.00.
Any camping store such as BCF or Carac will have them just take your model number with you.

Jeff.

You could also try a small flush after you have closed the seal, this would help with any smells, it would be like the "S" bend in your normal toilet at home. It's what we do anyway but then wev'e got a brand new Thetford in our van
Cheers
Rick P

The seals are replaceable and available from most CV shaops or the manufacturers. Take the tank out - replacethe seals and then add two heaped tablespoons of the "el-cheapo" variety if Nappisan Soaker - available from Coles and Woolies under various names such as Oxy Bright.

Mix in in with a a couple of litres of hot water and shake well to mix. Top up to the very top with cold water - another shake to mix well and let it stand for 24 hrs. An occassional shake works well.

At the end flush well and it will be spotlessly clean and odour free and sanitised.

Use 11/2 tables spoons of the 'el cheapo' Nappisan soaker, again mixed with about half a litre of hot water - instead of the commercially available loo treatments and your cassette will stay odour free.

John

The Thetford manual recommends the use of Olive oil only for seals

After a trip we always clean out the loo as per the tips brom BT, then "lubricate" the seals with olive oil, DO NOT use vaseline, that is petrolium jelly and petrolium products will damage rubber seals.
Frank

Will start with replacing the seal, great tips thanks to all !
Chris & Myra.