How to Replace a Bite Valve
Bite valves should be replaced periodically to avoid leaking due to normal wear and tear.
The help article below has three sections:
- Reservoir Bite Valve, Sheath Replacement
- Reservoir Bite Valve, Complete Assembly Replacement
- SoftFlask Bite Valve, Sheath Replacement
Reservoir Bite Valve, Sheath Replacement
Most times the part that fails is the soft biting surface that is known as a sheath. Replacing the sheath is easy and takes less than 30 seconds.
1. Remove the sheath - Grasp the hard plastic part of the valve and in one hand and the sheath in the other and pull apart.
2. Install new sheath by pushing it onto the valve body. The hard plastic center goes inside the bite valve, and the soft plastic surface will slide on the outside.
Reservoir Bite Valve, Complete Replacement
Depending on the original problem with the bite valve, it is sometimes necessary to replace the entire bite valve. We define the bite valve as the complete assembly located at the end of the tube. This includes the hard plastic body and the soft biting material (known as a sheath).
1. Remove the bite valve from the tube
The bite valve assembly needs to be removed from the tube. There are barbs that hold the bite valve inside of the tube. Grasp the tube in one hand and grab the bite valve plastic body in the other hand and pull firmly. The bite valve will pull out of the tube.
Sometimes bite valves can be difficult to remove. If this is the case, heat water up to 170 F / 77 C and place into a coffee cup. Place the bite valve and end of the tube into the cup and let it sit for 30 seconds.
Once the hose is heated up, the bite valve can be pulled out of the tube. Be careful, as the plastic will be hot. We recommend covering the end with a towel and then grasping the bite valve assembly firmly and then pulling it out of the tube.
2. Install the bite valve. Normally, you can press the new bite valve into the tube without any problem. If you find it is difficult to press into the tube, use the hot water method above to heat up the tube and then press the bite valve into the tube.
Softflask Bite Valve, Sheath Replacement
Much like a sheath replacement on a reservoir, the sheath replacement on a flask is quick and easy.
1. Remove the old sheath by pulling it straight off of the flask. You may need to wiggle it back and forth.
2. Install the new sheath by pressing it onto the softflask.
Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns.
Phone: (303) 440-0358
Email: info@hydrapak.com