Autotrol 4000886 368 Bypass (Wrekin ECO & ECOULTRA Models)

The 4000886 is the bypass valve assembly that fits directly under the Autotrol 368 control valve on WrekinWater's ECO and ECOULTRA softener models. It lets you isolate the softener from the mains supply and divert raw water around the unit for servicing, without disconnecting any pipework. Fitted as a slide-type bypass with sealed pistons, it's the same part used to isolate the softener whenever a control valve, resin tank or other component needs attention. WrekinWater stocks this bypass as a genuine-spec replacement for ECO and ECOULTRA installations.

Technical specifications

Symptoms that mean you need this part

• The bypass won't seal fully in either the service or bypass position, so water trickles to drain or bypasses when it shouldn't
• The bypass handle or slide mechanism is stiff, cracked, or won't hold its position
• O-rings on the bypass pistons are worn, causing leaks at the base of the valve
• You're fitting a replacement 368 valve head and need a matching bypass to go with it

Why it fails / why it matters

The bypass sits between the mains supply and the control valve, using a pair of sliding pistons sealed with O-rings to route water either through the softener or straight past it. Constant exposure to mineral scale and grit gradually wears the piston seats and O-rings, so the bypass can no longer hold a full seal in one position or the other. That shows up as water leaking to drain during service, or an inability to fully isolate the softener for maintenance, and replacing the bypass assembly is the straightforward fix.

Why buy this from WrekinWater

WrekinWater has supplied Autotrol and Pentair valve components to installers and DIY customers for over 15 years from its Bettisfield, Shropshire base, and this bypass is the same part fitted to WrekinWater's own ECO and ECOULTRA softener ranges. The business stocks the full range of Pentair Fleck, Autotrol, Clack and Kinetico components, is rated Excellent on Trustpilot, and has served more than 50,000 customers who rely on genuine-spec parts arriving quickly.

How to fit it

1. Shut off the mains stopcock feeding the softener before starting any work on the bypass
2. Turn the existing bypass to the bypass position first to relieve pressure inside the control valve
3. Undo the retaining clips or screws securing the bypass assembly to the underside of the 368 valve head
4. Withdraw the old bypass and inspect the valve base O-rings, replacing them if worn or flattened
5. Fit the new 4000886 bypass assembly, lining the pistons up with the valve ports, and secure it with the retaining clips
6. Restore the mains supply and cycle the bypass between service and bypass positions to check for leaks in both settings