Apollo Valve Repair & Maintenance Guide
Proper maintenance keeps Apollo valves in service for decades. Premature failure is usually caused by incorrect media, improper installation, or deferred maintenance — not valve quality. This guide covers rebuild intervals, when to repair vs replace, and how to identify the right service kit for each Apollo series.
When to Rebuild vs Replace
Rebuild: Valves 1-1/2" and larger where the valve body is in good condition. Soft-seat failure (seats and seals) is the most common failure mode and is fully correctable with an OEM service kit at a fraction of replacement cost. Industrial ball valves (83/86/87A/88A series) in 2"–12" are almost always worth rebuilding.
Replace: Small valves (1/4"–1") where kit cost approaches replacement cost. Any valve with body cracking, erosion damage, or external corrosion compromising structural integrity. Relief valves and PRVs showing signs of weeping, corrosion, or discharge history — always replace rather than rebuild for safety-critical devices.
Apollo Service Kit Guide by Series
| Series | Kit Type | Kit Contents |
|---|---|---|
| 83 Series CS Ball Valve | Seat & Seal Kit | RPTFE seats, stem packing, body O-ring |
| 86 Series SS Ball Valve | Seat & Seal Kit | RPTFE seats, stem packing, body O-ring |
| 87A / 88A Flanged | Seat & Seal Kit | Seats, stem packing, gaskets |
| 4A RP Backflow | Complete Rebuild Kit | Check valve cartridges, relief valve seat, all elastomers |
| 4A DC Backflow | Complete Rebuild Kit | Check valve cartridges, all elastomers |
| 36 Series PRV | Diaphragm Kit | Diaphragm, seat, spring, O-rings |
Seal Material Selection for Rebuilds
- RPTFE (Reinforced PTFE) — Standard for water, steam, and most industrial service. Good chemical resistance, low friction. The default choice for ball valve seats on 83/86 series.
- Viton / FKM — For aggressive chemicals, hydrocarbons, and high-temperature service. Better chemical resistance than PTFE in solvent applications.
- EPDM — For water, steam, and mild chemicals. Not compatible with petroleum-based fluids.
- Buna-N / NBR — For oil, gas, and petroleum service. Not compatible with steam or hot water above 180°F.
- Graphite Packing — For high-temperature steam service. Required on 83/86 series when operating above 400°F.
Recommended Maintenance Intervals
- Ball valves (commercial service) — Cycle quarterly to prevent seat adhesion. Inspect packing for weeping annually. Rebuild at first sign of leakage past stem.
- Backflow preventers (RP & DC) — Annual certified test required. Rebuild at first failed test or every 5 years as preventive maintenance.
- PRVs — Verify downstream pressure setting annually. Rebuild or replace at 10 years or first sign of hunting/chattering.
- Relief valves — Replace every 3-5 years on water heaters. Never rebuild — replace with a new OEM valve.
Identifying the Right Service Kit
Match kits by series and size. The series and size are stamped or cast on the valve body. For backflow preventers, the model number is on the nameplate — bring the full model number including any suffix codes when ordering.
Not sure which kit you need? Contact us at sales@pvfpro.com with the valve series, size, and a photo of the nameplate — we'll identify the right kit.
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