mystery pump

[Nomad100]

Hi, My 93 model Gulfstream Sun Voyager has a pump at the extreme front end behind the grille. This pump runs non stop when vehicle switched on and I cannot determine what it is for or whether it should run all the time. Can anyone tell me what this pump does and does it require any maintenance. Thank you and look forward to your replies.

regards, Nomad100

[RV Wizard]

Hello Nomad100 and . We are glad to have you join us here and we look forward to reading of your adventures and experiences. I am sure you will enjoy the website and forums. Good luck, stay safe and keep us posted.
We need to know what chassis you are on. Otherwise a guess might be a vacuum pump if the coach were diesel.

[Nomad100]

Hello, thanks for reply. The chassis is Spartan and is a diesel pusher.This rv is now restored to former glory and functions perfectly.I have noticed that this pump runs constantly and am worried that it needs lubrication maybe. Cant see what it is connected too. We use the rv every week and its restoration has been a good experience.I am writing a blog on my adventures from start to finish .Maybe it will help someone carrying out a similar restoration. I appreciate any help you can give on the pump issue. I would also like to acquire a workshop manual for this model if anyone has one.

regards, Nomad100

[mahon1993]

What kind of hose or hoses are hooked up to it? How big is it? Hows bout a picture. It could be a vacuum pump to operate the dash heater controls. Most DP have them. They are usually black plastic about 3" X 5" or so, have two wires going to them and one small hose usually going to a vacuum storage tank about the size of a softball. Or it could be a pump to boost the engine hot water for the dash heater. Then it would have two wires and two heater hoses going to it.
Or it could be a warp speed anti-gravity pump????????????????
Greg

[Nomad100]

It fits description for dash heater controls, it does have the small round reservoir attached.

[Martind4]

If it's a vacuum pump and it running all the time, you have a vacuum leak. The pump should cycle very infrequently after initial startup.

Start by tracing the lines and then plug one line at a time until the pump stops. Sometimes you can actually hear the leak if it's big enough. Most likely the leak will be where two lines have rubbed together or where the line enters a valve or connector.

I was lucky and found our vacuum leak very easily, then it was just a matter of threading in a new line and our pump started working as it was designed.

Good luck.

[Nomad100]

Thanks folks,will have a go tomorrow. I will post a photo just to be sure.

[Midniteoyl]

A '93 Sun Voyager in Ireland? You are a very brave man ..

[Nomad100]

Why's that then ,it's no different to a bus or lorry.

[Midniteoyl]

And, having lived in Europe for 10 years, I wouldnt want to drive them either

[Nomad100]

Yeah ! you gotta be tough to survive over here.

[bluefox]

Its a vac. pump. I moved mine to the side compartment on driver side, cause water froze up the original pump. I think it cost around 500 to get a new one. My camper is in storage now so I can't check on the cost. So move it now before it seizes up.

[Chief]

Sounds like a vacuum as Martind4 above indicated. Trace the little rubber hoses and you most likely find a leak. Good thing is the pump is working properly and will not require replacement and the little hoses are cheap.

[Nomad100]

Thanks you for all your help on this. It is definitely a vacuum pump and I have traced the pipes around the heater system. Some have hardened with age and fall apart when you touch them. Some new pipe now on order.Your assistance has been much appreciated,thanks again.

regards, Nomad100