Air in the Fresh Water System ? (1 Viewer)

[Locoman]

Hi Experts !
In our Auto Trail we are having problems with Air getting into the Water system.
I have checked all the pipe work that I can access and nothing obvious ,
is there a diaphram or seal on the Surflow Pump that may need replacing ??

 

[TerryL]

I think you can get an overhaul kit but not sure where - I read it on here some time ago.

Another possibility is the water draining back down into the tank. Fitting a non-return valve in the pipe between the tank and pump may be of help.

 

[pappajohn]

Surflow is a diaphram pump and the diaphram can split allowing water to drain back.
If working properly the pump acts as a one way valve.
Theres more chance a bit of grit/dirt has found its way under one of the 'poppet' valves in the valve block allowing water to drain back.
Either way, the pump will cycle on and off constantly with all taps closed.

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[Locoman]

Many thanks for the above
I have had a go at it today, have filled the tank to overflow with some Milton sterilizer in it to flush the system at the same time then pumped it all through
This has helped, I also think the fresh water guage is telling porky's
And shows 1/4 of a tank when infact it is nearly empty thus drawing in some air ?
If I have further problems I will try a replacement diaphram
Thanks for your ideas

Martin

 

[pappajohn]

Never believe a level gauge....mostly there for show, not functionality and rarely accurate.

 

[Locoman]

"Like"

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[TerryL]

If the water level gauge is important and you can get access to inside the tank, reach in and you will find a couple of rods probably sticking down from the top. Give them a good clean off (no abrasives) flush the tank again and you might find it more accurate.

But after a while you'll get to know how much water you're using and won't take any notice anyway - I don't!

 

[Locoman]

Thanks for that, as far as I can see there is only a drain cap underneath,
So will give that a try.

 

[MikeD]

On my Autotrail I had the same problem.

I was given to understand the issue was on the feed pipe from the tank to the pump. During manufacture they put a pop rivet into the tank/pipe to fix it in position.

When the pip rusts or falls out the pump sucks air.

I was told a self tapping screw into the rivet centre was the fix.

Whether I was fed a line or not I have no idea. But they cured the problem some how.

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[WillH]

As TerrL said above, you'll get to know how much water you generally use and can top up as required. Never had much faith in the gauges they're too basic for the job.

 

[Motorhome Man]

Hi locoman, you can get an overhaul kit, very easy to fit as well, I personally would buy another pump, two reasons, motor has done as much work as valves and not a lot of difference in price between service kit and new pump approx £50 on ebay. Air could also be entering system through pipework and fittings on suction side of pump.perhaps even small split in pipework where it runs through chassis from tank to pump. Also check sealing tape on screw thread fittings and make sure pushfit connections are fully home and 'o' rings aren't damaged.Let us know how you get on. Luke