320 Cassette jammed

MarkAl

After a trip, I took the cassette out to clean and "something" happened and when I put it back in the cassette is now jammed inside. The sliding cover was slightly poking out and I thought maybe I had it in opposite. But I could pull it out when the cassette partially pulled out (before it stops). No I haven't been able to push it back in.  The handle inside was and is correctly positioned closed.  I've been sliding thin objects between the cassette top and the toilet bowl but I can't figure out what to do next. Thoughts or a link to a video?  I think the shutter/cover was not all the way in when I inserted the cassette? The shutter s/b captured and pulled open or closed when moving the cassette in and out.

SLJ

Check and see if the blade control knob on top of the cassette is parallel with the cassette. If not use a flat object to reach in and try to turn it.

 

MarkAl

The knob is correct, it slides forward enough that the cassette can be pulled part way out.  BTW we did find this link that has a lot of repair videos from Thetford. Also a suggestion in chat information. We will try this tonight; I had pushed on the tank without any movement so I'm not hopeful. https://www.thetford-europe.com/gb/welcome-thetford-support/c400-series-cassette-toilet

SLJ

The only other thing I can think of is if you still have a cover on the storage compartment underneath that could have become dislodged and is somehow jamming the cassette.  I removed my cover and don't use it.

Mobean

I had same issue with the truly unnecessary cover for the storage compartment.  Once I finally wiggled the cassette loose, I had a bent cover.  Works just fine without it.  Don't think I would ever store anything under a toilet anyway.

MarkAl

Thanks to @SLJ and @Mobean After verifying the rotating knob could not be straighter, and after pulling the cassette as far out as it could go, I pushed down mightily on the cassette inside and wife pulled less aggressively but hard and we got it out. No damage but will not use the lower plate anymore. Thanks everyone.

Basil48192

Glad you got it!  The first time I used it I found that the cover prevented the latch on the bottom of the cassette from locking into place.  I removed it and have not had a problem since.  

bjn2

@Basil48192 I'd like to confirm that this is the sliding cover you've removed. 

MarkAl

This is the slide that came off when it jammed. It was not damaged but the plate I removed was a white plate over the depression under the cassette. I still use the gray plate. 

Basil48192

@bjn2.  No.  That has to stay in place (on top of the cassette).
The plate I removed is the one described above by @MarkAl and shown in the first photo below.  It covers the recessed opening underneath the cassette (shown in the second photo below).

 

bjn2

@Basil48192 thanks so much for the photos and clarification. The existence of the panel and the compartment are new to me. Apparently this is a storage compartment and the one behind can house a filter. https://www.caravantalk.co.uk/community/topic/141840-what’s-this-secret-compartment-for/

rfuss928

I think it is where the vent plumbing connects (like seen to the rear of the cassette compartment floor) if the toilet is installed with the left side on an outside wall.  It allows the same unit to work in either position with the outside cassette access on either side.  The unused space is just covered and not really meant to be useful.