Community Forums

tnau · 03-20-2010, 07:36 PM

It got warm enough today to get the Ultra out and start getting ready for the season. I love spring.

But, not when stuff doesn't work. I thought my water pump was kinda weak when I winterized when it wouldn't pick up the solution after 2 gallons. Well today it wouldn't pump to clear it out after the tank was 3/4 full. I have 2 questions.

1. How can I be sure the pump is bad before I replace it?

2. Any recommendations on pumps? The original was the Surflo diaphram w 45 psi, 10.6 lpm; 2088-403-144

Thanks
Terry

RV Wizard · 03-21-2010, 04:43 AM

Make certain that if you have a filter/strainer; that it is not clogged or allowing air to enter, causing an air lock. Also check the other end of the water line connected to the inlet side of pump. I check pump operation with an independent water line into a bucket of water. If it runs and does not pump, I install a new pump.

tnau · 03-21-2010, 04:58 AM

Thanks Mike, there is free flow of water to the pump, but not through. I took the top off and there was no obvious obstruction.

Is this the normal way a pump quits? Just poof!

Terry

Herbdb · 03-21-2010, 06:36 AM

I just went through this on my sailboat. If your system does not have an accumulator tank in the system, then I recommend when you change out the pump that you use a variable speed model such as this one: FloJet Sensor VSD Pumps - Product - Camping World Or this one: West Marine: Sensor Max VSD Water Pumps Product Display

Both have the ability to vary the speed of the pump based on the demand. This cuts out the surges in the flow, caused by the constant speed pumps cutting on and off. The smallest versions have more output than your old one, but for the price difference, I would go for the bigger unit. You won't see the pressure drops when more than one tap is turned on.

TandW · 03-21-2010, 06:40 AM

Is it possible the tank return valve is still open? Good luck!!

tnau · 03-21-2010, 08:33 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TandW

Is it possible the tank return valve is still open? Good luck!!

Well, I don't know Chief, I'm not even sure this unit has a return valve. When I winterized it I unplugged three drains and used air to blow out the lines. All these lines are closed now. I removed the line going in to the pump and water was flowing freely. The only question I have not been able to answer, other than it doesn't work,

, is how this tank is vented. I'll be checking that later today.

Terry