Autotrol 1035622 Tank Ring, 263, 268 and 278 Valves

The 1035622 is the tank retaining ring that locks an Autotrol 263, 268 or 278 control valve onto its tank adapter, holding the valve securely against full system pressure. It's a simple but essential plastic component, and one that's easily cracked or lost when a valve is levered off for servicing. WrekinWater stocks this ring for engineers and DIY customers who find their valve won't lock down properly or notice the original ring has failed.

Technical specifications

Symptoms that mean you need this part

• The valve rocks, lifts or feels loose on top of the tank when the system is under pressure
• The retaining ring is visibly cracked, split or missing teeth and won't lock closed
• Water is leaking or weeping from the base of the valve because the ring isn't holding it fully seated
• The ring snapped while levering the valve off the tank during a service or repair

Why it fails / why it matters

The tank ring is what actually clamps the control valve down onto its tank adapter, taking the upward force the system exerts every time it's under mains pressure. Being a moulded plastic clip, it's the part most likely to crack when a valve is prised or twisted off during servicing, and UV exposure and age make the plastic more brittle over time. Once the ring has lost its grip or snapped a tooth, the valve can't be relied on to stay fully seated, which shows up as a leak or movement at the base of the unit.

Why buy this from WrekinWater

WrekinWater has supplied Autotrol spares including small but critical parts like tank rings for over 15 years from its Bettisfield, Shropshire base, serving more than 50,000 customers who need the exact clip for their valve rather than a rough fit. Stocking genuine-spec parts for the 263, 268 and 278 range and holding an Excellent Trustpilot rating means a cracked ring doesn't have to keep your softener out of action for long.

How to fit it

1. Isolate the softener at the bypass valve and relieve system pressure before starting work
2. Carefully release and remove the old retaining ring from around the valve base, taking care not to damage the tank adapter
3. Check the tank adapter and valve base for cracks or wear now the ring is off
4. Position the new 1035622 ring around the joint between the valve and tank adapter
5. Press the ring into place until it clicks fully home and sits evenly all the way round
6. Restore mains pressure gradually and check the base of the valve for leaks before returning the softener to service