Question
Hey Matt:
I have a couple of questions...
#1  I have a crack (therefore a leak) at the base of a "T" joint in the pvc piping that leads to a valve.  This is the first valve in a series of three.  There is not much piping to cut & replace.  I've tried some putty to seal the crack, but no success.  Any suggestions beyond digging it all out and putting in new piping?

#2  I've got two zones that are not opening on the timer.  These are older valves (light green in color) with older "JH 811 solenoids" (which I cannot find anywhere any more).  The solenoids are the spring and piston type where both can totally slide out of the solenoid.  Any way, I've replaced the solenoids with similar ones mfg'd by Orbit and I've replaced electrical wiring, but no go.  There seems to be power to the solenoids.  Is there possibly something wrong w/ the valves?  Any suggestions...hand watering the lawn is therapeutic, but time consuming.

Thanks,
Paul

Answer
For the first question. Sorry to say there is no easy fix. Your probably going to need to cut the pipe off and re-plumb the entire valve manifold. There was a product which was a 2 part PVC patch, but I don't think it's available anymore. Breathing it was similar to drinking about 10 beers.
#2. It sounds as if the valves are bad. Internally. The have diaphragms and can, over time, rupture. This would keep them from opening. To save the frustration, I would change the entire valve and be done with it.
Good luck, if you have further questions, feel free to reply back.

Matt