Kenmore 7278434 Water Softener Bypass Valve

I thought I had an Oring leak. Did everything to try to stop it. Then I read the reviews for this product and noted several people had found hairline cracks that were hardly noticeable, but opened up under pressure. Checked mine and I also found a hairline crack. This replacement part fixed it. Reading the reviews is worth the time.

I have a 5+ years old GE GXSF30V softener that the output connecting to the unit had a small leak by where the locking clip is. This is the right part and fit perfectly without any leaks. Naturally, for this repair you would think it's the o-ring that is leaking, but it's not the case. You MUST shut off the water main to relieve the line pressure in order to remove the locking clips. With a mid size flat screw driver to pick/remove the clips carefully. O-ring replacement did not address the root cause for me. The whole by-pass valve must be replaced to stop the leak, and it did. My research tells me many have the same hairline crack that is invisible. Mine is on the outlet side or left side when you are in front of the softener. The crack is on the inside/top, so small and invisible, but it can leak a few gallons a day to your brine tank. If I've known better, then I will skip the O-ring, go ahead with this part and be done. But your process of elimination may still involve the o-ring replacement as your first step. You have to pick your battle.

This fixed the water leak problem where the tank was filling up with water. We tried to replace the O-rings and that did not stop the leak. We could not find any leaks but ended up buying this valve assembly as a last resort. Once installed the bypass handle moves freely and the leak stopped completely. Upon closer inspection of the old part there was a hairline crack visible. I have circled this in the photos in red and there are pictures of it without the red marks so you can see how difficult it might be to see it with the part installed. I hope this helps someone who has the same issue with water filling up the salt tank.

easy to install, use included lubricant or silicone grease to help rubber o ring set in properly

Is as advertised. I thought I was going to have to get a new softener but traced my issue to the valve and order this replacement, saved a bundle over going to Sears. Easy to install and works great.

As advertised replacement part.

After trying all less expensive remedies to stop my leak I purchased the valve and was delighted to find the leak stopped. Must have been a hairline crack.

Believe what they say... Whether you see the crack or not, it's there. Replace with a new one... Problem is gone.

Fixed the water softener!