Hello again,
I appreciate the great help from all of you. I have listed the "facts" as I understand them based on your input. Also based on your input, I have listed my options for a repair or a "work-around".
The "facts" (with respect to my 2004, 2720SL):
A. The grey tank should not leak at the joint where it enters the TM bathroom.
B. This problem has occurred with at least a few (two or three) others who have let their grey tank overfill. That is, they have observed a leak as I described in my original note. (As one respondent suggested, it may be wise to test for this leak by purposely overfilling the grey tank).
C. Most likely, the connection between the top input of the tank and the bath tub has not been sealed properly or for some reason has deteriorated to the point that it is no longer sealed properly.
D. As those who have affected a repair themselves will attest, it is a slow and tedious job.
I had a telephone conversation with the TM technical leader, Ed Lytle. He confirmed the following:
...that the problem has been reported a few times (and, when still under warrantee, repaired through an authorized dealer)
...that it should not leak
...that it would overflow into the tub if allowed to overfill
...that it could be caused by a deteriorated joint, which could be repaired (with difficulty and lots of time, as those of you who implemented a repair reported)
...that it could be caused by a stress crack, which might not be so "easily" repaired or might require replacement of the tank
...that the "tube" (or pipe) from the bathtub fits "inside" the grey tank so the water going down the drain will go directly into the tank (in other words, if the seal is bad, the water should not leak onto the ground until the tank is full
My options (in no particular order):
1. Work around the problem. That is, don't repair the connection but be sure to dump before the tank can fill to overflow as everyone, even Ed from TM factory, believes that the sole source of the leak is the connection at the top of the tank, implying that it will not leak if it does not fill to that level. I tend to agree with this if it is due to a deteriorated connection. However, if it is a stress fracture, it could get worse over time, eventually requiring replacement. I tend to think it is most likely not a stress fracture since everyone was able to have the joint repaired or did it themselves. Hence, I am not overly concerned with getting it fixed immediately, or maybe ever.
2. Repair it myself. Some of you have offered more detailed information on how to go about this if I ask. Also, Ed (from the factory) has offered a technical guy to work with me over the phone (which I am sure would be a long conversation) if I decide to repair it myself.
3. Since I purchased my TM used, I also purchased an Extended Warranty from a third party vender. I know that some of these EW's are not worth their price but I plan to see if it will cover (less the deductible) this repair. I will definitely report it to the vendor and see where that leads.
I consider this case solved and closed. Thanks again for your input.
Regards,
George