Water pump won't prime!

[7ACMike]

Got a problem with my water pump not priming. Started the winterization process couple weeks ago and all worked as it should with the 1st jug of antifeeze after blowing the lines out. Went thru the sequence of blowing ea faucett/shower stool and outside faucetts and then stuck a jug of antifreeze on my hose and it sucked the 1st on in, started on the 2nd one and about halfway thru it quit sucking and pump still runs but no sucking or pumping. Tried another known good pump and its the same issue, runs but no pumping and won't build pressure. Tired opening the faucetts but no change! What am i misssing here? Is there a check valve somewhere on the pressure side that is stopping flow? I have the Nautilus panel on winterize also. Thanks, Mike

 

[Todd F]

There is a check valve at the fresh water connection. I always took the washer with the screen in it and flipped it around backwards so it would press on the check valve. Then connected my hose for the antifreeze. Always worked like a charm.

 

[7ACMike]

Wow, that was quick! Thank you and will go try that shortly and post back! Mike

 

[Todd F]

You are welcome sir. Hope that works for you! Remember to flip it back around when you're finished.

 

[Oregon_Camper]

There is a check valve at the fresh water connection. I always took the washer with the screen in it and flipped it around backwards so it would press on the check valve. Then connected my hose for the antifreeze. Always worked like a charm.

Then wouldn't the antifreeze in the lines flow back out? I don't see the value in flipping the check valve?

 

[Todd F]

The antifreeze doesn't back flow at all. I've done it this way for years. You should try it!!

 

[Lantley]

I don't think he's talking about flipping the check valve. I think he is referring to flipping the cone washer.

 

[Todd F]

Exactly! There are several write ups on this across several forums. That's how I learned of this when I was having problems with winterizing my Grand Design. The water pump doesn't allow for water or antifreeze to backflow past the diaphragm anyway.

 

[7ACMike]

Flipped the washer/screen around and the pump primed up and worked fine. I turned it back around when done. Thank you much! I figured there had to be a check valve just hadn't started the search yet. 👍👍 7ACmike

 

[Lantley]

That little trick is good to know. I never heard of it before this thread. Now I know. Thanks

 

[Todd F]

That's what we are are here for. Education and helping others is what it is all about. 7ACmike I'm glad it worked out for you and you were able to get the job done.