Autotrol 1236246 Valve Cover 255 / Performa 263, 268, 278

The 1236246 is the genuine-spec outer valve cover that fits over the drive and camstack assembly of Autotrol 255 and Performa 263, 268 and 278 control valves, shielding the working mechanism from dust, drips and accidental knocks. It's a straightforward plastic moulding rather than a functional part in itself, but a cracked, missing or ill-fitting cover leaves the motor, cams and micro-switches exposed to moisture and grit. If your valve's cover has split, gone brittle, or was never refitted after a service, this is the correct replacement, and WrekinWater keeps it in stock.

Technical specifications

Symptoms that mean you need this part

• The cover is cracked, split or has broken clips and no longer sits securely on the valve
• The cover is missing entirely, leaving the motor and camstack exposed
• You've noticed moisture, dust or airborne debris around the drive mechanism during a service
• A discoloured or brittle cover crumbles when you try to remove it for inspection

Why it fails / why it matters

The valve cover has no moving parts of its own, but it plays a real protective role: the motor, drive gears, camstack and micro-switches beneath it are what actually control the regeneration cycle, and they're vulnerable to water ingress from splashback, condensation in a damp utility room, or dust settling into the switch contacts over years of service. UV exposure and age make the plastic brittle, and the clips that hold it in place are the first thing to snap if the cover is removed carelessly during a service call. Once the cover is gone, contamination of the drive mechanism becomes a when-not-if problem rather than a remote risk.

Why buy this from WrekinWater

WrekinWater has supplied Autotrol control valve parts to installers and DIY customers for over 15 years from its Bettisfield, Shropshire premises, stocking genuine-spec covers, seals and drive components for the 255 and Performa ranges so a simple cosmetic part doesn't leave you searching multiple suppliers. Backed by 50,000-plus customers served and an Excellent Trustpilot rating, WrekinWater makes it easy to get the small parts right, not just the big ones.

How to fit it

1. Isolate the softener at the bypass valve before working on the control valve
2. Identify the clips or tabs securing the existing cover to the valve body
3. Release the clips and lift the old cover away, taking care not to disturb the wiring beneath
4. Wipe down the exposed drive mechanism and check for any dust, moisture or corrosion before refitting
5. Position the new 1236246 cover over the motor and camstack assembly, aligning it with the valve body
6. Press the cover into place until all clips engage, then restore the water supply and confirm the valve cycles normally