Shasta - How to Replace a Clogged Line or Valve on a Shasta Synthesizer

When should I use this guide?

Use this procedure if you see:

• No flow during priming

• Suspected clogging, crystallization, or valve failure

---

Tools & Parts You’ll Need

• Valve fitting tool

• Replacement valve (from Shasta spares kit)

• Replacement tubing (if needed)

• Empty reagent bottle

• Gloves + eye protection

⚠️ Safety note: Always depressurize reagents before opening fittings or removing valves.

---

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting & Replacement

1. Check the fitting first (important)

Before assuming the valve is bad:

1. Tighten the fitting at the valve to ensure it is fully seated.

2. A loose fitting can dry out internally and restrict flow later.

3. Use the fitting tool included in your spare parts kit.

---

2. Try priming the valve

1. Open the Priming Screen in the Shasta software.

2. Select the affected valve.

3. Press and hold the “Hold to Prime” button.

4. Watch for flow:

   • If flow resumes, the valve was likely partially clogged and has cleared.

   • If there is still no flow, continue to the next step.

---

3. Remove liquid from the line

Before replacing any hardware:

1. Place an empty bottle in the reagent position for that valve.

2. Prime the line to pull as much liquid out as possible.

3. Depressurize the reagent system.

4. Open the bottle cap to confirm pressure is fully released.

---

4. Determine: tubing or valve?

At this point, the issue is usually one of the following:

A. Tubing issue

• Look for crystallization, discoloration, or visible blockage

• If present:

  1. Remove the tubing

  2. Replace it with tubing from the spares kit

B. Valve issue

• If tubing looks clean and unobstructed, proceed with valve replacement

---

5. Replace the valve

1. Remove the two mounting screws holding the valve in place.

2. Unplug the electrical connector from the valve.

3. Plug the connector into the new valve.

4. Mount the new valve using the same two screws.

   • Snug is sufficient — do not overtighten.

💡 In some cases, both the valve and tubing may need replacement.

---

6. Re-pressurize and verify operation

1. Re-pressurize the reagent system.

2. Return to the Priming Screen.

3. Prime the valve and confirm:

   • Normal flow

   • No leaks at fittings

4. Once flow looks normal, resume operation.

---

If the issue persists

If flow still does not return after replacing both the tubing and valve:

• Stop operation

• Document which valve was replaced

• Contact support with:

  • Valve position

  • Error symptoms

  • Photos if possible

---

Summary

Most Shasta valve issues are caused by:

• Loose fittings drying out

• Minor crystallization

• Tubing blockages

• Actual valve failures are less common, but replacement is quick when needed.