First Impressions of Thetford 42138 Base Kit High Bone Style Ii
The Thetford 42138 Base Kit High Bone Style Ii promises a streamlined solution for freshwater flush permanent toilet installations. Thetford is a known name in the RV and marine sanitation industry, and a reliable base kit is critical for preventing leaks and ensuring long-term toilet function. Does this kit live up to the Thetford name and provide a solid foundation?
My older RV toilet was starting to show its age, and the base was cracked, leading to slow leaks. Replacing the entire unit seemed wasteful, so I began looking for a base kit replacement. I considered a complete toilet replacement from Dometic, but their base design seemed less robust. Ultimately, the reputation of Thetford and the promise of a direct fit replacement swayed my decision.
Upon unboxing, the Thetford 42138 Base Kit High Bone Style Ii felt sturdy. The bone-colored plastic appeared durable, and the molding was clean and precise. My initial thought was, “This looks like it will do the job.”
This kit was chosen over generic alternatives due to the perceived quality and direct compatibility with my existing Thetford toilet. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping the kit would live up to Thetford’s reputation and solve my leaking toilet problem.
Real-World Testing: Putting Thetford 42138 Base Kit High Bone Style Ii to the Test
First Use Experience
My first testing ground was my RV, parked in my driveway for a week while preparing for a cross-country trip. Installation required disconnecting the existing toilet, cleaning the area, and fitting the new base. It was a surprisingly straightforward process.
The kit was tested under normal usage conditions, including multiple flushes and simulated “full tank” scenarios (using dye to check for leaks). The Thetford 42138 Base Kit High Bone Style Ii performed flawlessly. There were no leaks, and the toilet felt significantly more stable.
The installation process was easier than expected. The base fit perfectly, and the included instructions were clear and concise. My only initial surprise was the weight of the base. It feels significantly heavier than the old one, suggesting a denser plastic.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a 5,000-mile road trip spanning several weeks, the Thetford 42138 Base Kit High Bone Style Ii has proven its worth. It’s held up remarkably well. There are no visible signs of wear and tear.
The bone-colored plastic has resisted staining and is easy to clean. A simple wipe-down with a mild cleaner keeps it looking fresh. This new base has far exceeded my expectations.
Compared to my previous experience with the cracked and leaky original base, this Thetford replacement is a revelation. It’s a solid, reliable foundation that gives me peace of mind on the road. I’m confident it will last for years.
Breaking Down the Features of Thetford 42138 Base Kit High Bone Style Ii
Specifications
The Thetford 42138 Base Kit High Bone Style Ii is designed as a direct replacement base for freshwater flush permanent toilets. Its color is bone. It is engineered to fit specific Thetford models.
The base kit adheres to Thetford’s manufacturing guidelines ensuring proper fit and setup when following their instructions. This adherence to standards is crucial for preventing leaks and ensuring compatibility. The kit’s primary function is to provide a stable, leak-proof foundation for the toilet.
Performance & Functionality
The Thetford 42138 Base Kit High Bone Style Ii performs its core function admirably. The base provides a stable and leak-free platform for the toilet. This stability significantly improves the overall user experience.
The kit’s strength lies in its simplicity and direct-fit design. There are no unnecessary complications. However, it is critical to verify compatibility with your specific toilet model.
The kit far exceeded my expectations given the simple design. It’s a seemingly simple part that provides a much-needed reliability boost to the toilet.
Design & Ergonomics
The Thetford 42138 Base Kit High Bone Style Ii boasts a solid build quality, with a durable plastic construction. It has a comfortable weight. This weight contributes to the overall stability of the toilet.
The kit is user-friendly. The installation is simple enough for someone with basic DIY skills. However, proper plumbing knowledge is essential for connecting the water lines.
The base is well-molded with no sharp edges.
Durability & Maintenance
The Thetford 42138 Base Kit High Bone Style Ii is designed for long-term use, made with robust materials. The quality of the plastic suggests it will resist cracking and discoloration over time. The base is easy to maintain.
Cleaning requires only a damp cloth and mild detergent. Regular inspection for leaks and cracks is recommended. This simple maintenance routine will ensure the longevity of the base.
I expect the base to last many years.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Thetford 42138 Base Kit High Bone Style Ii is a base kit, meaning it doesn’t come with accessories beyond the necessary hardware for installation. There are no real customization options, given its purpose. The focus is on providing a direct-fit replacement, not on adding extraneous features.
The kit is designed to integrate seamlessly with existing Thetford toilet components. Compatibility with non-Thetford accessories is limited. Focus is on keeping with Thetford products.
Pros and Cons of Thetford 42138 Base Kit High Bone Style Ii
Pros
- Provides a stable and leak-free toilet base.
- Direct-fit replacement for easy installation.
- Durable plastic construction ensures longevity.
- Simple design minimizes potential failure points.
- Cost-effective solution compared to replacing the entire toilet.
Cons
- Limited to specific Thetford toilet models.
- No customization options are available.
Who Should Buy Thetford 42138 Base Kit High Bone Style Ii?
The Thetford 42138 Base Kit High Bone Style Ii is perfect for RV owners, boat owners, and anyone with a compatible Thetford freshwater flush toilet needing a base replacement. It is ideal for those experiencing leaks, cracks, or instability in their existing toilet base. It would benefit someone who is handy and comfortable with DIY projects.
This product is not for those with non-Thetford toilets or those seeking to upgrade or customize their toilet’s functionality. It is not suitable for users who prefer professional installation or those uncomfortable with basic plumbing tasks. Those seeking a more modern design may not favor this base.
A must-have accessory would be a new toilet bowl seal, as this should be replaced whenever the toilet is removed from its base.
Conclusion on Thetford 42138 Base Kit High Bone Style Ii
The Thetford 42138 Base Kit High Bone Style Ii is a reliable and cost-effective solution for repairing a leaky or damaged Thetford toilet base. Its direct-fit design and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment for RV and boat owners. The price is justified by the peace of mind it provides.
I would personally recommend this product to anyone needing to replace their Thetford toilet base. It is a simple, effective, and affordable solution. Don’t let a leaky toilet ruin your travels – invest in the Thetford 42138 Base Kit High Bone Style Ii and enjoy worry-free sanitation.