KZ SPORTSMEN CLASSIC 160RBT – Toilet Seal Kit Replacement

Complete repair guide for the KZ SPORTSMEN CLASSIC 160RBT – Toilet Seal Kit Replacement.

Parts & Tools You’ll Need

Step 1: Diagnose the Toilet Seal Failure

Begin by identifying whether you’re experiencing water leaks around the base of the toilet, slow water drainage into the tank, or continuous running water sounds. Turn off the water supply valve located beneath the sink or at the main fresh water tank inlet, then flush the toilet completely to empty the bowl. Inspect the toilet base for moisture and check if water pools around the seal area—this confirms the Wax-Free Closet Seal Ring or internal ball valve seals require replacement. Document the toilet model and serial number found on the underside of the seat, as the KZ Sportsmen Classic 160RBT typically uses Thetford or Dometic brand toilets requiring specific seal kits.

Step 2: Remove Water Supply and Disconnect Toilet

Locate the water inlet valve behind or beneath the toilet and turn the shutoff valve clockwise until it stops—do not force it, as these valves are delicate. Disconnect the water supply line by turning the compression nut counterclockwise by hand or with a adjustable wrench; place a small towel underneath to catch residual water. Remove the four bolts securing the toilet base to the floor using a 1/2-inch wrench or socket, turning counterclockwise and keeping fasteners in a labeled container. Carefully lift the toilet straight up and away from the floor flange, then place it upside-down on a padded surface like old towels or foam padding to prevent porcelain damage.

Step 3: Replace the Base Wax Seal Ring

Scrape away the old wax seal and any remaining residue from the floor flange using a putty knife, working carefully to avoid damaging the flange’s sealing surface. Clean the flange thoroughly with a damp cloth and allow it to dry completely—moisture will compromise the new seal’s effectiveness. Position the Wax-Free Closet Seal Ring onto the flange, pressing it firmly into place with even pressure around the entire circumference. This modern alternative to traditional wax seals provides a better grip and reusable properties, making future removal easier if needed.

Step 4: Service the Ball Valve Seal Kit

Locate the ball valve assembly at the toilet’s water inlet port, typically accessed by removing a single retaining nut with a 7/16-inch wrench. Carefully withdraw the ball valve stem and inspect the rubber seals for cracks, discoloration, or hardening. Install the Thetford 34120 Ball Valve Seal Kit by replacing the worn seals with new ones, ensuring the small O-rings sit in their grooves without twisting. Reinsert the ball valve stem and tighten the retaining nut to 12-15 inch-pounds using a calibrated torque wrench—over-tightening will crush the new seals and cause immediate failure.

Step 5: Install Updated Toilet Seat Assembly

If the existing toilet seat shows cracks, hinge damage, or excessive wear, prepare for replacement by removing two bolts beneath the hinge area using a Phillips head screwdriver. Install the Thetford Aqua-Magic V Seat & Lid by aligning the new hinges with the toilet bowl mounting points and inserting fasteners—tighten snugly but not excessively to avoid cracking the porcelain. Verify the seat closes smoothly and the lid operates without binding or misalignment. Check that the foot pedal mechanism (if equipped) engages cleanly and resets properly after each flush cycle.

Step 6: Reinstall Toilet and Reconnect Water Supply

Lower the toilet carefully onto the new wax seal ring, aligning the flange bolts with the mounting holes and pressing down with firm, even pressure until the base sits flush against the floor. Hand-start each of the four floor bolts, then tighten them in a diagonal pattern (front-left, back-right, front-right, back-left) to ensure even seating—torque each bolt to 15-20 foot-pounds and stop immediately if resistance increases. Reconnect the water supply line to the inlet valve, turning the compression nut clockwise by hand first, then tightening with a wrench approximately 1.5 turns past hand-tight. Turn the shutoff valve counterclockwise slowly to restore water pressure, watching for leaks at the connection point.

Step 7: Test System and Verify Seal Integrity

Flush the toilet 8-10 times in succession, observing the bowl for proper water drainage and checking that the tank refills completely within 30 seconds. Examine the toilet base, floor around the base, and water connection points for any moisture or seeping—wait 10 minutes and check again as slow leaks may take time to appear. Listen for unusual sounds like hissing or running water after the tank refills; these indicate ball valve or fill valve problems requiring further investigation. Once confirmed dry and operational, apply a small amount of Camco TST Drop-In Tank Treatment to disinfect and protect the freshwater system after your service work.