Air/water valves and suction valves can look alike on your bench, but they do different jobs. If you order the wrong one, you lose time. This guide shows how to tell them apart and what to check before you ask for a quote. It covers endoscope valves for Olympus, Fujifilm and Pentax scopes.
Two valves, two jobs
The air/water valve controls air and water on the scope. The suction valve controls suction. Each one fits its own spot on the scope’s control section. So choose a valve by its job and by your scope model, not by how it looks.
Read the model name on the valve
The model name is usually printed on the valve. Here are some examples from our range:
- For Olympus scopes: MH-438 (air/water valve) and MH-443 (suction valve).
- For Fujifilm scopes: AW-500 (air/water valve) and SB-500 (suction valve).
- For Pentax scopes: OF-B188 (air/water valve) and OF-B120 (suction valve).
These are compatible replacement parts. They are not made by the scope brands, and we never call them genuine parts. We name the brand only to show which scopes the part is meant for.
Do not mix brands
Do not assume a valve for one brand fits another brand. Check the scope model first. If the old valve is worn and you cannot read the name, take photos from two sides in good light and send them with the scope model.
What to send for a quote
- The scope brand and full model.
- The valve job: air/water or suction.
- The name printed on the old valve, if you can read it.
- Clear photos of the old valve.
- How many pieces you need, and your country.
For standard items the minimum order is 1 piece. The usual lead time is about 7 days, confirmed when you order.
Common questions
Are these genuine parts? No. They are compatible replacement parts, and each listing says so.
Can one valve fit several scopes? It may, but we do not assume it. Send the scope model and we will check the fit before you order.
What if the name has worn off? Send photos from two sides and the scope model. We compare the shape with the parts we list, and we tell you if we need more information.
Can I order just one? Yes. The minimum order for standard items is 1 piece.
Next step
See our endoscope spare parts for current valve listings, or send us your scope model and photos to check the fit.
