Kenmore Comprehensive Guide to Water Softener Parts, Troubleshooting and Bypass Valve Positions

Service Tech Information

ROTARY VALVE SERVICE

IMPORTANT: Before working on the valve, turn off the water supply and disconnect from electrical power.

TO RELIEVE PRESSURE:

•3 VALVE BYPASS: Close the inlet valve and open a soft water faucet. Then close the outlet valve and open the bypass valve.

•SEARS SPECIAL BYPASS: Slide the bypass valve stem to bypass position. Loosen three hex head screws toward the back side of the valve to allow pressure water to bleed out. Catch water with a rag.

DISASSEMBLY

To remove a part or group of parts, refer to the valve drawing. A common screwdriver or nut driver, Phillips screwdriver and pliers are the only tools needed to com- pletely disassemble.

SERVICING THE VALVE

Inspect all o-rings, seals and gaskets for wear or defects.

Inspect the bottom surface of the rotor for scratches, chips or wear.

Note: If replacement is needed, be sure to use the current replacement part.

ASSEMBLY

Be sure all parts are in place and in the proper position. Lubricate ALL o-rings and seals with FDA approved sili- cone grease. To install the rotor seal, first place the seal into the valve groove, rounded side down (see cross-sec- tion). Apply a light coating of silicone grease to the seal’s crossing ribs. Then, carefully center the wear strip on the seal, and push it downward onto the seal.

Install the nozzle and venturi seal and drain seal. Assemble wave washer bearing, the wave washer, and two o-rings, onto the rotor top shaft. Then center the rotor in the valve body, on the rotor seal.

Lower the cover onto the valve body and rotor shaft. Then install the cover holding screws. Before tightening the screws, install the valve cam and gear.

Then, turn the rotor (clockwise only) to service position. Tighten the screws using a criss-cross pattern. If a torque wrench is available, torque to 30-40 inch pounds. Do not over tighten.

Lubricate the gear on the motor, and the valve cam gear with Molykote grease, or other high quality gear lubricant.

Be sure to orient switch as shown, with lever toward the cam.

Motor

Switch

Motor Plate

Cam & Gear

	O-Ring Seals	O-Ring
	Wave Washer
Wear-Strip	Rotor & Disc
Seal		Rotor Seal
		Drain Seal
		Nozzle & Venturi Seal

See Nozzle

Assembly Service

FIG. 53

Questions? Call The Kenmore Water Line 1-800-426-9345

38