In 1975 I installed a drip irrigation system consisting of 7 Lawn Genie automatic valves on 6 zones. They are not installed in a manifold, but scattered around the house near the zone they water. About 11 years ago I rebuilt all the valves. Now, as the valves fail, or become too leaky, I am installing brass valves. After installing 2, I purchased 5 Champion CL466-075-B valves. The first 2 installed fine. After I installed the third one, about a week ago, it failed to open properly -- the emitters only weep a bit. There are 32 1-gallon emitters on this zone. If I open the manual bleed valve for a second or so, then close it completely, the valve operates properly, and stays open until the timer shuts the solenoid off.

Since I do not know exactly how these valves work, I have done these things without success:

Replaced the solenoid thinking maybe it was not engaging fully.

Removed the top of the valve and blew the small holes with a compressor to make sure there was no debris in them.

Replaced the top (but not the diaphragm).

Since I have another new valve, I can replace any part. Any suggestions?