I have an older Rain Bird sprinkler system with an underground valve turned on with 7' "T" How do I turn it on

Question:I've turned the water on in the house but it's not running through the system. Can someone tell me how to get it running?

Answers:
mavs2350

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If I understand your question/description, you have a "T" valve handle rod that is seven feet long. You lower the T-handle into the ground and the "U" shaped end (or some design such as that -- designed to slip over the valve's off/on device)
does enguage the valve. You have turned the T handle counter-clockwise (opening the valve) and no water enters the system -- even though you have opened the primary valve that is located in your house (basement?).

If the above is correct, then something is wrong with the T-handle valve or the primary valve. Check that the primary valve is working i.e. it will open and when it is open, water flows to your T-handle valve.

If that is correct, and there is a water supply at the T-handle valve, then something is wrong with the T-handle valve OR :
Making sure that the T-handle valve IS open, and no water flows -- there is something wrong with the T-handle valve (and it is Not open or will not open) OR there is something wrong down stream from the T-handle valve that prevents water flow into the sprinkler distribution system.

Once you have done the verifications of the two valves addressed above; you will know if you are going to need excavation to expose the T-valve or beyond. If beyond, then this might or probably is time to investigate a new design.

RainBird will do an excellent computer irrigation design for home owners at no charge. The best place to start is on the Rain Bird web site (see Rain Bird Sprinkler Design Service). You can have Rain Bird supply an initial irrigation design for your lawn. Once you have all the materials on hand, follow the Installation Guide or Installation Video.

Cheers,