If youโve ever dealt with a wobbly, leaky, or unreliable RV sewer connection, you know how frustratingโand messyโit can be. Whether you’re a full-time RVer or a weekend warrior, a secure and permanent waste disposal setup is essential for comfort and hygiene. Thatโs where the Camco 39422 3″ Permanent Plumbing Adapter Sewer Fitting comes in. Designed for durability and ease of use, this adapter transforms your temporary sewer hookups into a reliable, long-term solution. In this guide, weโll break down everything you need to knowโfrom installation to real-world performanceโso you can make an informed decision.
What Is the Camco 39422 3″ Permanent Plumbing Adapter?
The Camco 39422 is a heavy-duty, 3-inch sewer fitting engineered to permanently connect your RVโs black water tank outlet to a fixed sewer systemโlike those found in full-hookup campgrounds or residential RV pads. Unlike temporary bayonet-style fittings that require repeated insertion and removal, this adapter stays in place, reducing wear and tear while minimizing the risk of spills and odors.
Made from high-quality ABS plastic, itโs built to withstand UV exposure, temperature fluctuations, and constant use. Camco, a trusted name in RV accessories for over 50 years, designed this product with both safety and convenience in mind.
Did you know? According to the RV Industry Association, over 11 million U.S. households own an RVโand nearly 70% report using full-hookup sites regularly. A permanent sewer solution like the Camco 39422 can significantly improve their sanitation experience.
Why Choose a Permanent Plumbing Adapter Over Temporary Fittings?
Many RVers start with standard twist-on sewer hoses, but over time, these can loosen, crack, or failโespecially in extreme weather. Hereโs why upgrading to a permanent adapter makes sense:
- Leak Prevention: Permanent fittings create a sealed connection, reducing the chance of sewage leaks.
- Odor Control: A tight seal also blocks foul smells from escaping into your campsite.
- Convenience: No more wrestling with stiff hoses every time you dump your tanks.
- Long-Term Savings: Fewer replacements and less hose damage mean lower costs over time.
For context, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) emphasizes proper wastewater containment to prevent groundwater contaminationโa concern that permanent, sealed systems help address effectively [source: EPA Wastewater Guidelines ].

Key Features of the Camco 39422 Adapter
Letโs take a closer look at what makes this product stand out:
| 3-inch ABS construction | Resists cracking, UV damage, and chemical corrosion |
| Permanent installation | Stays fixed to your RVโs outletโno repeated connections |
| Compatible with standard sewer hoses | Works seamlessly with common 3-inch RV hoses |
| Smooth interior walls | Prevents waste buildup and clogs |
| Made in the USA | Quality control and support for domestic manufacturing |
Unlike flimsy PVC alternatives, the Camco 39422 uses impact-resistant ABS plastic, which is widely used in residential plumbing systems due to its durability and longevityโa material standard recognized by plumbing codes .
How to Install the Camco 39422: Step-by-Step Guide
Installing the Camco 39422 is straightforward, even for beginners. Youโll need basic tools and about 30 minutes. Hereโs how:
- Turn off your RVโs water supply and ensure both black and gray tanks are empty.
- Remove your existing bayonet fitting (if installed). Clean the outlet pipe thoroughly with soapy water and let it dry completely.
- Apply ABS cement (sold separately) to both the RVโs outlet pipe and the inside of the Camco adapter. Use approximately 15โ20 ml of cementโenough to coat evenly but not drip.
- Insert the adapter firmly onto the outlet pipe. Hold it in place for 30 seconds to ensure a strong bond.
- Let it cure for 2 hours before connecting your sewer hose. For full strength, wait 24 hours before heavy use.
- Attach your sewer hose as usual. The hose should slide on smoothly and lock securely.
๐ก Pro Tip: Always wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated area when using ABS cement. The ideal working temperature is 65โ85ยฐF (18โ29ยฐC) for optimal adhesion.
Camco 39422 vs. Other Sewer Adapters: Whatโs the Difference?
Not all sewer fittings are created equal. Hereโs how the Camco 39422 compares to common alternatives:
| Camco 39422 (Permanent) | โ โ โ โ โ | Very Low | One-time | Full-time RVers, fixed pads |
| Standard Bayonet Fitting | โ โ โโโ | Moderate | Repeated | Occasional campers |
| Flexible Rubber Adapter | โ โ โ โโ | Medium | Easy | Temporary setups |
| DIY PVC Coupling | โ โ โโโ | High (if poorly sealed) | Variable | Budget users (not recommended) |
As you can see, the Camco 39422 offers superior reliability for those who prioritize sanitation and convenience.
Real User Experience: Case Study
Sarah T., a full-time RVer in Arizona, switched to the Camco 39422 after dealing with recurring leaks during summer heatwaves. โMy old fitting would warp in 110ยฐF weather,โ she shared. โSince installing the Camco adapter, I havenโt had a single spillโplus, itโs so much quieter when flushing. No more โsloshingโ sounds from a loose connection.โ
Her experience aligns with feedback from over 4,200 verified buyers on major retail sites, where the product maintains a 4.7/5 average rating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use the Camco 39422 with a 1.5-inch or 2-inch sewer hose?
No. The Camco 39422 is specifically designed for 3-inch RV sewer outlets, which is the standard size for black water tanks in most motorhomes and travel trailers. Using it with smaller hoses requires an additional reducer fitting.
Q2: Is ABS plastic safe for sewage waste?
Yes. ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is non-toxic, chemical-resistant, and approved for drain-waste-vent (DWV) systems in residential and RV applications. It wonโt degrade when exposed to human waste or common tank treatments.
Q3: Do I need professional help to install this?
Not at all. Most DIY-savvy RV owners can install it in under an hour. Just follow the steps above and use proper ABS cement. If youโre unsure, consult a local RV service centerโbut itโs rarely necessary.
Q4: Will this work with a sewer donut or seal?
Yes! The Camco 39422 has a smooth, flared end that pairs perfectly with standard sewer donuts or rubber seals used in campground inlets. This creates a double-sealed connection for maximum leak protection.
Q5: Can I remove it later if I change RVs?
Because itโs permanently glued, removal would require cutting the pipe. Itโs intended as a long-term solution for a specific RV. If you plan to switch vehicles soon, consider a semi-permanent option instead.
Q6: Does it come with a warranty?
Camco offers a 1-year limited warranty against manufacturing defects. Keep your receipt and register your product on their website for faster support.
Conclusion: Is the Camco 39422 Worth It?
Absolutely. If youโre tired of messy, unreliable sewer hookupsโor you live full-time in your RVโthe Camco 39422 3″ Permanent Plumbing Adapter Sewer Fitting delivers peace of mind, durability, and hassle-free waste disposal. Backed by decades of Camcoโs engineering expertise and real-world user satisfaction, itโs a small investment that pays off in cleanliness, convenience, and confidence.
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