RV Plumbing Leak Diagnosis & Repair - Practically For Free!
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- čas přidán 11. 09. 2024
- Here's how us DIY RVers diagnose and repair elusive problems. Even though your RV's plumbing system may be different, this detailed look at the process may help you fix a similar problem.
SPECIAL BONUS! We'll be answering your questions live on the air on The RV Show USA on November 1st! That's right... we'll once again be joining our friend Alan Warren "The RV Guy" on his nationally syndicated radio show - the only one about RVing in the country. Our topic this time will be this video and the tips and tricks we use to diagnose and repair things on our own RV.
We'd love to feature your questions! After watching the video, you can submit a question related to it in the comments section below, or on The RV Show USA Facebook page. Alan will then ask us as many of those viewer-submitted questions as we have time for live on the air next Wednesday evening, November 1, 2017.
We'll be live at 8pm Eastern / 5pm Pacific. Visit The RV Show USA website to find out if your local station carries the show. You can also watch the live Facebook feed, broadcast from the show's studio in Texas (or view it later on).
If you miss us live, you can still hear the show archived at any of the following locations:
The RV Show USA Website: thervshowusa.com
The RV Show USA on Facebook:
/ thervshowusa
The RV Show USA on iTunes:
itunes.apple.c...
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Full-Time RVers since April, 2003, we share DIY (do it yourself) RV maintenance, repair, travel, upgrade and operational tips & tricks.
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Comments welcome! Thanks for watching! Don't forget to subscribe! #RVLIFE #RVDIY #RVLIVING #FULLTIMERV #RVREPAIR #RVMAINTENANCE #RVMODS #RVUPGRADES #RVTRAVEL #DIYRV #RVGEEKS
SPECIAL BONUS!! WE'LL BE ANSWERING YOUR QUESTIONS LIVE ON THE AIR ON THE RV SHOW USA ON NOVEMBER 1ST! That's right... we'll once again be joining our friend Alan Warren "The RV Guy" on his nationally syndicated radio show - the only one about RVing in the country. Our topic this time will be this video and the tips & tricks we use to diagnose and repair things on our own RV.
We'd love to feature your questions! After watching the video, you can submit a question related to it in the comments section below, or on The RV Show USA Facebook page. Alan will then ask us as many of these viewer-submitted questions as we have time for live on the air next Wednesday evening, November 1, 2017.
We'll be live at 8pm Eastern / 5pm Pacific. Visit The RV Show USA website to find out if your local station carries the show. You can also watch the live Facebook feed, broadcast from the show's studio in Texas (or view it later on). If you miss us live, you can still hear the show archived at any of the following locations:
The RV Show USA Website: thervshowusa.com
The RV Show USA on Facebook: facebook.com/TheRVShowUSA
The RV Show USA on iTunes:
itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-rv-shows-usa-podcast/id1194158462
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The way you break down diagnosing a problem is helpful for this video and other projects as well. Thank you for the step by step. Y!'all set the standard high once again! :)
Thanks so much, Belle! 😘
Thanks for the tip on how to isolate the pump from the system. I was able to confirm I can still use city water and the problem is between the pumps. As a newbie to the camping wold this was invaluable. I can still get my short trips in until I get the pipe fixed.
Keep on doing what your doing.
Relatable real-life example of a thorough - but not too "dry"- diagnostic and demonstration of replacing a valve plumbed with pex showing techniques and tips. Thank you. I had no idea it was so complicated down there. Water is very smart and logical system, glad you were there to help me out by making it simpler.
This is great video. I just replaced this valve on my Dutch Star which appears to have the same water compartment. The space below the bulkhead is too small for me to crawl under as Peter did. I removed the mounting screws in the corners of the bulkhead and it just falls forward making all the hoses etc. mounted on the back of the bulkhead accessible. It made the job much easier for me. I so appreciate the incredible service that John and Peter provide, especially to us Newmar owners, with their videos.
Hey Bryan! Thanks so much for letting us know we've been helpful. Always great to hear... and always great to hear from a fellow Newmar owner, too! Safe travels - Peter & John
EXCELLENT presentation!! So enjoyable to watch regardless if I would ever have a similar situation or not. I love all your lessons. I always take something away from them. Thanks guys!
Lauri
+Windkisssed Thank you so much for your kind words, Lauri! You just made our evening complete. 😊
An excellent and easy to understand video. The animated plumbing diagram brings it all together. Most importantly - it explains how the plumbing system and pump work together, so even if the fill valve is not the problem, understanding how the system works will allow you to trace down the cause. For example, I now know that if I hear the pump cycling when it shouldn't be, there could be a leak inside somewhere too that will end up causing rot issues. I wouldn't be surprised if some of your videos are used in RV Service Technician courses! Thank you!
Thanks so much for the nice comments! Concern over a leak leading to rotting is definitely the first thing we thought about when hearing that pump running! We checked every inch of the basement, under cabinets and on the ground (since that's of course where any leak of any amount will eventually end up. Actual leaks into the RV are the worst, and we were relieved that that wasn't the case for us.
I hear from fellow RV'ers all the time about the water pump cycling as shown in the video. Everyone always says its the backflow preventer in the pump. But you show a methodical way to actually determine the cause. As always just great information. Happy travels, Lou
Thanks Lou! This was a particularly satisfying one, since we just knew if we took it to the shop, they'd just replace the pump (which we could of course easily do ourselves). That would have made it doubly bad... overpaying for the wrong "fix." We were definitely high-fiving after this one... at least til the 16-minute mark or so on the stopwatch. 😂
Another great video. I liked that you separated the diagnosis (far more complicated) from the comparatively simple fix.
Thanks John! Some of the most frustrating experiences we've had at RV shops were waiting (and paying for diagnosis time) all day, only to find out that there was a 10-minute fix required. We avoid those situations like the plague whenever we can! ;-)
Great video guys! We're glad to hear from our friends on CZcams again
Thanks Kyle & Olivia! Great to hear from you. Hope you're having a blast in Sedona! What a great town.
You guys always make it look so easy! I don’t think I could do it as well as you, but I have to admit I’m more likely to try it after watching this🤣
Interesting how you investigated the issue to come to the real problem. Love this! Another awesome video guys. Thank you.
Thanks so much, Paddy! Nothing worse than replacing parts that end up not being the real problem!
Just purchased a new to me small travel trailer. Hope I don't have any plumbing issues at present and I so appreciate this video to trouble shoot in the future if needed. Thanks so much!
Had the same cycling issue... After physically looking every connection and ruling out the pump(some may have a suction side leak too) We found it to be a faulty toilet valve that allowed the water to trickle in the bowl... Replaced the original toilet(1992) during our stay over at Tampa Lazy Days and it's been perfect ever since..
Water leaking into the toilet could be catastrophic! Great you got that fixed. Figuring out the problem is so often the hardest part.
Our 2003 Newmar Dutch Star DP water pump also started coming on by itself but ours was every 7-8 minutes. In a panic I searched all over the RV for the water leak. I decided now would be a good time to pull the washer/dryer comb out of the closet Newmar put it in and install a drain/drip pan. This allowed me to inspect all the plumbing associated with not only the w/d but also under the bathtub and other plumbing going to the bathroom.(toilet etc). No problems could be found. So I figured it was leaking back through the water pump, but your video about the city fill valve gives me pause. We were at our home when all this happened and the problem has not come back. I wonder if it could have been sand or some other debris in the water pump or fill valve. Thanks for sharing, y'all have a beautiful coach.
+richard leitner Thanks Richard! If the problem went away in its own, we think your hypothesis about debris in the valve could be right on the money!
@@RVgeeks Well, the problem came back, actually it's been back for quite a while we are almost always on the campgrounds city water supply and just live with it. Can that valve be gotten at Lowes or Home Depot or do I need to order it from Newmar? Thanks guys. P.S. Do you know what size that screw on fittings on the in/out on the water pump are?
Sorry the problem’s back, Rick. You can either order the valve from Newmar… or remove the current one and try and find a replacement At a big box store or plumbing supply shop. As for the threaded connections for the water pump, we believe our Remco Aquajet has 3/4l NPT fittings… but we’re not sure if all pumps are the same.
@@RVgeeks Thanks, appreciate the help.
Thanks again for including the diagnosis steps. Always nice to be able to replace the part that's bad rather than just start blindly replacing parts. Funny ending!
Thanks Allan! "blindly replacing parts" is exactly what we wanted to avoid, and it's so easy to do in this type of situation (and what we've had shops do before). Glad you liked the diagnosis... and the ending. 😁
Excellent video and perfect explanation, you have certainly gained another subscriber, thanks so much for doing these videos!
Thanks so much, Rick, and welcome!
Smart and methodical, I expected nothing less.
Thanks Vincent! Hope we don't let you down next time! 😅
Excellent video and diagnosis. Not just applicable to RVs either; apart from the direct connection to city water, much of that system is very similar on boats with similar issues of pump cycling in the event of any leaky taps, pumps, valves etc. Cheers
Thanks for the nice comment, David. Great to hear that this info may translate to boats as well. Hadn't thought of that. We'll bet that discovering a leak is even more urgent for you, since we can't be sunk by a faucet continuing to flow undetected. 😉
Exactly!
Good video! Thanks for not making the music insanely loud.
This is exactly what is happening to our Newmar currently.
Thank you for posting!
I was worried it was the pump, although the valve replacement looks painful.
Thanks for the video. You guys are one of the first I go to for info.
Interestingly our water pump on the boat burbs every now and then. We found you diagnosis steps helpful if slightly different from what we would need to do. Thanks.
That’s awesome! Always great to hear we’ve been helpful, even if just getting headed in a direction that solves a related problem. Thanks so much for letting us know. 😊
Another great one, guys!! I can't tell you how much time and money you've both saved me through the years.
Great to hear, Dice! Thanks for letting us know, and for the nice comment. 😊
Great Video as always. Thanks for all of the info you guys have been providing over the years. Very helpful and entertaining.
Thanks so much, Malcolm. It's always great to hear that we've been helpful... and occasionally entertaining is good too! :)
We do miss your RV fixit sessions.
Thanks. We’ll have some new things coming up on our new rig.
You guys make everything look so easy
Thanks John, although you should see some of the bloopers. LOL
This is gonna save people a lot of money! Thank you so much!
Thanks Tina! We sure hope so! Nothing worse than paying five or ten times more for the diagnosis than the repair!
Love all your videos. We so can’t wait little over 24 months..
Thanks Roger! 24 months to Retirement? Getting an RV? Going full-time? 😃
Hello Gentlemen. Great video and it looks like I'll need more tools for the road. Thanks again. Be safe in your journeys and bye for now.
Nice job guys if you ever sell that RV i don't know if the buyers will know just how well you took care of the unit i wish all owners did what you do my mother screamed at us if we turned on the water to the kitchen sink and would say i just polished that sink so it stuck i wont say i am a clean freak but pretty close to one which is a good thing she taught us well
Thanks Lawrence! We like your Mom. :)
Fantastic job.👍👍👍🚿
Good info. Thank you. Blessings to you.
YAY! You are back! Good work guys!
Nice find for sure.
Thanks for sharing this video. I learned that I need to figure out what type of pipe the RV I'm going to purchase has and I need to pack a few Tools in my RV so I can make some for repairs like this. You guys are awesome! Keep the great videos coming.
Thanks so much! Always great to hear we've been helpful. And happy RV shopping, too! :)
RVgeeks, my wife and I have our eyes on the Newmar New Air. We really liked it because of the short length . We just have to save up the dollars to purchase it. Our timeline looks to be 3 to 5 years down the road. We will be going full-time, so that's why we really enjoy your videos to help us prepare for our journey. If we can't get that coach will probably get a Ventana. It looks like you guys really love your Newmar!
We LOVE the New Aire and would really love to downsize. We're hoping they continue to come out with more floorplans over the next couple of years, as the Ventana is the only unit that's currently available in a size/floorplan combination that are something we'd consider. Waiting a couple of years for more New Aire floorplans will also give us time to plan financially to see if we can afford it. We're upside down on our Mountain Aire mortgage, so we've got double the savings to do!
RVgeeks, our plan is to purchase the RV with cash so we don't have a mortgage. I hope we can make it work out. Currently we are debt-free and it sure gives us lots of options, as I don't have to worry about being laid off from work and we hope to remain debt-free. We're just in a good place right now but we sure do want to get on the road full time. I hope to see you guys out there sometime. Maybe at a Newmar rally.
+kitesquid If you get a New Aire before we do, we’re gonna be damn jealous! 😋
I had a similar issue with my Anderson valve on my thor miramar. I went to the Anderson web site and called them. While waiting for the support person to call me back I watched a video they had on youtube on how to replace the valve core. Mike from Anderson called me back and walked me through the diagnosis to make sure it wasnt a faulty water pump. Finally I had to remove the valve core for inspection. Upon inspection, 3 out of 4 o-rings were torn! Plus we discovered the handle was on the valve backwards! Anderson will replace the valve core free. Isn't that amazing?
Great to hear that Anderson stands behind their products, Ben! Thanks for sharing your story. Sure does remind us of our own situation, although we didn't open up the valve to inspect the internal components.
Looking at the valve core, I asked the tech how to determine which way the valve was supposed to be oriented, since by initial inspection, there wasn't a difference. But upon talking to an engineer, the tech pointed out that one side of the valve shaft had a flat spot which was longer that the other side. That longer side was the direction the arrow of the handle was intended to be pointed. My handle, which I had kept attached to the valve core, was in the opposite direction! No wonder things were not working consistently or not at all! Could have led to the premature failure of the core? I'm not certain, but it didn't help! No RV is perfect new from the manufacturer and ours is a"new used", a 2017 model which in all likelihood, was a demo due to having 12k miles in its first year. We traded in our Simba, but kept the inverter. if you're ever in port saint lucie, Florida, I could sure use your help debugging the xantrex 3012 and our autogen set, which has not worked correctly since they installed it from the Simba. It will turn the gen on, but it wont switch it off either in auto or man off. Sorry to get off topic...but I had to ask. thanks again for providing valuable content!
another great video! Thanks so much!
Thanks Lisa!
Great Video, only thing I missed is the part number for the valve and supply source Thank you Phil
We didn't actually include a part number for a couple of reasons. First, they discontinued them. 🙁 And second, we used a valve that was left over from the installation of our Acuva water purifier (there are lots of those same valves used throughout our RV). If we'd had to buy a replacement, we'd have had to go with some other type, but luckily we didn't need to. Your best bet is to visit the plumbing department of your local home improvement center. We've seen suitable replacement valves there.
Thank you for replying so quickly, your videos are always informative and timely, I too have a Newmar product 2007 Kountry star so alot of what you do spills over to my motorhome. Thanks again, Phil
Always great to hear from a fellow Newmar owner! Safe travels Phil. 😊
I recently purchased one from Newmar. It is a different valve in that the handle is brass and the plastic handle is what usually breaks. I was surprised to find that the valve I bought was available at my local hardware store. Apparently, it is commonly use valve in many applications.
Hello from Australia.I am brand new to the motorhome/RV life and just want you to know how very helpful your videos are to me. I especially appreciated the episodes on how to drive a motorhome/RV, how to do hookups, empty a cassette toilet and inflate tyres. I recently returned from my first ever motorhome trip (uploaded to my new CZcams channel) and your advice and tips helped me enormously. I loved watching the episodes you did in Australia. Do you have any plans to come back? I hope so.
Hi Mez! Thanks for the nice note. So great to hear we've been helpful. LOVE your Iveco/Winnie rig! And LOVE OZ!! Just subscribed. No current plans to return, but a LOT of desire. We'll be back again someday for sure. Safe travels, Peter & John
I was beyond excited to receive a reply from you! I can’t believe that anyone as famous as you two would take the time to watch my videos and subscribe! What an honor! You are so kind. Thank you.
Fame is a relative term in North America, Mez! LOL We're little fish in a very big pond, but we're having a great time, and it's great to see that you are too. :) Thanks so much for the nice comments. Can't wait to see where your travels take you next.
Another stellar video... thanks guys!!!
I had a similar problem, I think it was toooo much pressure from the campground and the water was leaking into the fresh tank. It stopped once I started using a pressure regulator (45 - 55 psi ). All good for now and I hope it stays that way. I always check for leaks when camping, but I wonder sometimes what's happening in areas where you can see. hmm
Thanks Hector! And thanks for reminding us all about the importance of using a pressure regulator. The potential for exploding a water line (especially a hidden one) are just too great. We've heard horror stories about people coming back to their RV to find water running down the entrance stairs like a waterfall! We've had our share of self-inflicted wounds over the years, but thankfully never that one!
I always look for your videos first! You guys make amazing videos, I can only imagine the colourful language that was deleted.
Thanks Norm! And your imagination is probably pretty accurate! 😂
Best part is a free fix.... but be assured that Pete had back pain !!!!! The angles necessary for plumbing is not good on the body!!! Another quality repair on Newman!!
Hey Scott! We have to keep things in great shape for you, back pain or not. 😂
Great video! I've been using the white flair-it compression fittings almost exclusively for years and recently got a ratcheting crimp tool like yours and a pile of clamp bands. Perfect for rigs like yours with fittings so close together where flair-it just won't work.
Excellent! Great to hear. 😊
Love the thirsty part, lol.
Glad you liked that! :)
Very informative, Always good stuff and I think I know whats going on with my rig. Thanks, Jonathon and Frankie
Great Video... I too had the same issue on my Newmar a few years ago..
Good video very informative meaning a lot of other videos out show different steps but not actually getting in there and showing how it’s done👍
Thanks so much, Kelly! You can see we really got in there on this one! My back was sore from all the contorting. I don't think that area behind the water panel was meant to be occupied by humans. LOL
thank you for this video
Thank you for another great video
Nice fix! Good thing you were wearing those latex gloves. Better safe than sorry 😊
Yeah because latex is cut-resistant LOL. Just playing Tito:)
Chris B Yup. My point exactly :)
Thanks Brian! I do try to protect my hands, especially when working in tight spots or on especially dirty projects. I had lymph nodes removed on my right side, so cuts on my right hand usually take longer to heal. Plus my hands are really dry, so I try to baby 'em! LOL
Amlactin! 20 oz bottle from Costco. Somewhere in the pharmacy section. BEST STUFF EVER for dry skin. No more winter cracks and works great when we're in the desert.
+2AZSUN Thanks! We love Costco, and will look for it next time we’re there!
Always enjoy learning, thank you.
Another great video guys. Love the ending lol
Thanks Nancy! So glad you liked the ending. It took a few takes because we were laughing so much. Guess it's good that we appreciate our own sense of humor, since we do live in close quarters. LOL
Hey John, great job with the step by step instructions and voice over! Glad you included the thought process behind finding the issue. We have a strange question for the show if it's not too late to submit it. We are if you guys ever think about buying a new RV and worry that you would lose out on such a great source of content for your channel? We know it's kind of a goofy question but we have always wondered lol. Take care guys and safe travels. We'll be listening in to the show😁
Thanks so much for this nice words, and great question. If we understand correctly, you're wondering how we'd have these sorts of repair projects to do for videos, since everything would be new? There would be several types of videos that having a new RV would allow us: 1) New rigs ALWAYS have punchlist items to be repaired (although we'd probably have anything more than really minor stuff done under warranty. 2) There are always upgrades to be done, and 3) We'd have a whole new world of things to share about our new rig... all the new/different/better gear! ;-)
We'll give your question to Alan for the radio show this Wednesday, and hope he asks us on the air. Thanks!
Yep, you understood it correctly and Thanks for the answer, that sums it up perfectly. If he does ask our question on air hopefully they clean up my words first so it makes more sense lol. Take care guys And good luck on the show!
No worries, Kenny & Sabrina! We're got it phrased nicely for Alan to pose as a question. I think we're supposed to be live at the top of the show.... about 6 after the hour, when they come out of the pre-show break (8:06 pm Eastern). We'll definitely make sure he has your question, which is a great one! Hope he uses it. If you miss the live show, it's super easy to catch afterward any time.
Enjoyed listening to you guys on the show tonight and what a great idea to use the gopro with the phone app to see on tough places. We have a gopro and I don't think we would have ever thought to use it as a tool like that. You guys are always coming up with great ideas and we appreciate you sharing them with all of us. Take care and Safe travels!!
Thanks Kenny & Sabrina! And thanks for listening. We had fun, but it sure did go fast! Alan asked us to submit some questions in advance that were left in the comments section here, and the very first one one our list was your question about whether we'd be concerned about losing out on potential repair videos by getting a new RV. We were hoping he'd ask it, but it seems like he had almost no time to get to questions. Next time! ;-)
Exact issue on my Mountain Aire. Thank you!
Thanks for the good tips, I prefer using SHARKBITE fittings on pex as they dont require tools and the are reusable.
Great idea! We actually considered using SharkBite fittings, which we really like. But since the space was so limited, and because we already had everything needed to do the job (so it was in effect free), and because we have no plans to remove this again (fingers crossed!) we just crimped. But SharkBites are awesome, so we really appreciate the tip!
Hi u two , here from Ireland
I love watching your videos. Because they are very interesting and enjoyable to watch.
I don't have a RV ,,, wishing I did , a newmar 45 53 king air or duchstar well something in that.
Your videos show me and I can learn alot from them . Thank you so much for your videos.
If you are wanting to go into cold snow conditions , witch I just love , but have a look at the Kimberly gasifier wood stove
It mite be a little more expensive, but the comfort of it is outstanding it can even make electricity 12 V with a thermoelectric generation . The Kimberly gasifier wood stove. Take a look at it on CZcams. Thank you for your videos. Until next time.
Hi Goliath! Thanks for the nice note. We'll definitely check out the Kimberly. Thanks for the tip! :)
I forgot to mention that the Kimberly can Cook, make hot water ( electrically)
The hot water is made by a coil mounted on top of the stove. You can also heat a lot of other parts of the RV the same way.
We looked it up and saw some cool videos about it. Thanks! The one thing we didn't see anything about was something that we though might be an issue in such tight quarters, such as in an RV. What happens if you accidentally brush up against it? Won't you get burned? The exterior of the unit looks like it would get hot enough to melt skin! LOL
RVgeeks Hi to you . Yes, all hot services are dangerous but that is up to the user
My qualifications is. Industrial mechanic machine and system techniques. I was interested in mechanical things since I was a very small boy. When I finished my qualifications I started working with a company that built industrial heating systems for 15 years.
Take another look at some more videos on the Kimberley. People have built the Kimberley in a very small motorhome and managed beautifully. Making a protection guard from stainless steel grades will also help the situation it is up to the user to make his own creation. P's I tried to explain it the best way I could. Without having to wright a large nose.
The amazing thing is on that stove that it fires for about 9 hours on one log for $1.
Thank you for your interest and replies much appreciated. hear from Ireland and keep up the good work.
Most Excellent Video. Watched it twice! Learned a lot and am able to go to and troubleshoot. I have a question about your diagram. Where on the system is the overflow valve? Off the tank?
Thanks Lillian! Yes indeed... that overflow tube comes directly out the top of the fresh water tank, and then out the bottom of the RV. Good luck, and let us know how you make out.
That was totally entertaining!!! Great job guys!
Quick question...I realize they're a ton of work, but will there be more of the "Driving" series coming? Those were super!
Thanks so much, Jim. Much appreciated. We actually have had a new driving video storyboarded out on the back burner for more than 6 months. But we're possibly trying to be too epic, since figuring it all out has proved a real challenge. I really appreciate your support on these driving videos, since they're so near and dear to us, and we haven't given up on this one. We're buried with work lately, so not likely we'll be able to even give it another look for a bit. But we're hoping to have some down time this winter, and with the overall concept already written, and a lot of footage shot, we're hopeful that we can actually complete it over the winter. It's a defensive driving video that will be useful for ALL drivers... not RV-specific. Even though I taught that all to motorcoach operators in person for nearly 10 years, getting it to work in video format is a huge challenge. Of course the fact that I want it to be epic and perfect is probably the problem! I really appreciate your expressing an interest, and although I can't promise we have the footage we need to complete it, I will promise that I'll try to front-burner it this winter. Would be fun to have it out to launch next year's RVing season. We're even hoping to do one on backing, or some other topic about maneuvering, but that's not even started in my brain yet! Thanks again, Jim - Peter
Thanks so much for the detailed answer! I know it's a huge undertaking to make these videos and the driving series is a huge topic even when broken down into smaller chunks! All your efforts are greatly appreciated!
Defensive Driving is a great topic, totally relevant nowadays (unfortunately), and will be useful to many. I'm sure you've been exposed to a bevy of situations, so it'll be interesting to see if there's anything I can apply.
Living (& driving) in the Ft. Lauderdale / Miami area for the last 20 years feels like post-graduate level coursework. But I've discovered one thing; no matter how crazy or fast I drive, surface streets (most people are ~50 mph) or highway (most people are ~80 mph) I seem to consistently average 22 mph...so I think my next vehicle will be a bulldozer. And if there's a traffic jam I can move right through it!
If you're ever down this way, please sound your horns so I can buy you a conch chowder!
Thanks Jim! I love the idea of the bulldozer. I was still in the bus business (in NYC) when the movie Speed came out, and went to see it with some fellow driving friends. The scenes where they were flying through the city crashing into cars practically had us leaping out of our seats pumping fists, yelling (at least in our heads) "Yeah!, Yeah!, Yeah!" I think we all got a vicarious thrill from the very idea of doing something we'd always dreamed of. LOL
You must have loved the Mythbusters episode about recreating the jump from Speed (czcams.com/video/xS-lYC4KAy8/video.html)!
I LOVED that episode. Of course we knew that bus never reared up in the air like that, but it was great anyway!
Great job. 👍
Thanks
Trouble shooting like a techie, go figure :)
Nicely done as usual
Thanks Frank! We have to keep our "Geek Cred" strong! LOL
Excellent video! Love you guys!
Thanks Bill! This was a particularly satisfying DIY project. We were bound and determined to figure it out ourselves, since we figured a shop would just replace the pump. ;-)
I think your giving the shop credit :D They could spend hours to find the issue after replacing the already "dying" pump. I have to say your commonsense approach to these projects are going to save me hundreds if not thousands of dollars!
You're right on with that, Bill! We've had it happen before where the shop would replace a part that didn't solve the problem, and tell us it was bad anyway. We HATE going into the shop, especially for this sort of thing.
Thank you!!! Hopefully, this is why my pump cycles every so often. "I was thirsty"... that's only 3 words, Peter doesn't get paid for this video. ;-)
So if your hooked up to city water why are you using your pump? Neoprene and hose clamps are a good temporary fix if you don’t have the right stuff. I have used it for water and propane leaks. Also brass or plastic connectors are good for emergency fixing.
We don't use our pump when hooked up. We were demonstrating how we knew that we had a leak - when we were dry camping, we heard the pump cycling.
I love pex tubing.
thanks, good job, i would of had no clue how to fix this.
Thank you guys!!
Great video ... Thank you!
Great to hear! Glad you liked it. :)
Excellent video. our pump was cycling often. after watching this video I fixed it a loose fitting. In the last 24 hours it has cycled 3 times without calling for water. Is this normal? Thank you
I have looked for more leaks but so far I have not found one.
Hi Gary! Glad you found the loose fitting! It’s possible that there’s still air somewhere in the system... which could allow the pressure in the lines to change enough to cause the pump to cycle. So that would be “normal”. But when we’re set up, dry camping, with the pump on and all air out of the lines, our pump almost NEVER cycles. It will, occasionally, if there’s a big drop in atmospheric pressure, so any air gaps in the lines allow the pressure to drop. But that’s all. If you inspect thoroughly and don’t see signs of leaking anywhere (could be very small/slow), it could be the built-in back-flow preventer in the pump itself that’s failing, allowing pressure to bleed off as water returns to the tank. Keep an eye on it and see if it continues/gets worse... or goes away. Worst case scenario, turn the pump off when not using it to avoid the cycling.
@@RVgeeks I was wondering about air in the lines. So far all lines look dry. Thank you.
Good tip and great detail. Now when are donna hear some of that rag time piano again?
Thanks so much. Sorry... no new ragtime vids, but you can always check out the one from Las Vegas (Maple Leaf Rag) that I did a couple of years ago.
That was great you need to add a little bit at the end of your videos.
good job!
nice detective work ;)
We have a 2013 Newmar Mountainaire and have a shower leak. Before I go into the guts of the shower, do you know if there is a water shutoff for the shower? I can't seem to locate one and don't want to get too deep into things with only relying on turning off the water pump and city water. Thanks.
Hi John. Sorry to hear you're having a leak problem. The only way we're aware of to shut off just one part of the plumbing system without shutting off everything at the pedestal and water pump is having an RV equipped with a Manabloc System. They do have to come from the factory that way (ours didn't), and not sure if the 2013 MADP has it or not. It's easy to tell though, since it's always mounted in an accessible place (since that's part & parcel to having it), and very recognizable. If you have one, it will look something like the third photo down on this page:
thegoodthebadandtherv.com/2017/04/27/choosing-our-full-time-rv-part-3/
We just checked the Newmar website, and see that the '21 MADP does NOT come with Manabloc, so that means it's unlikely you have it either. If that's the case, you will indeed have to shut off the water at the pedestal, and your water pump, to work on the shower. We're in the same situation, as wer're about to replace our shower valve! Best of luck in locating and repairing the leak.
at 3:09 is shows a second type of water line... could you please tell me what that line material is... it's the line to the far right... not pex. Thank you
Hi Lee! That’s nylon reinforced flexible tubing, which they used in various places, like going into the fresh water tank. Not sure why it’s not Pex everywhere, but the flexible stuff seems to do the job.
I have to replace this valve as well but there is no way I can crawl under the bulkhead the valve is mounted on. How can one get open free access to this valve. I asked my dealer how they would do it and they did not know but were pretty sure they could figure it out. I’d like to do it myself but there is no way I can wiggle my way under the bulkhead and around the Sanicon Turbo.
Hmmm... tough question, Bryan. We looked at whether or not we'd be able to get the panel out of our water bay in order to tackle this... and opted for contorting ourselves to access it instead. There was just too much "stuff" connected to the panel, and it was too well secured for us to pursue. But maybe your RV is different, and you can just remove that whole panel. Even if there wasn't enough play to get it very far out of the compartment, it may make it easier. Just be EXTRA careful that you don't end up damaging a plumbing line or anything else in the process... wouldn't want to cause a new problem while trying to fix one! 😉
We 06 Jayco trailer bunk house. Has a leak. We in the shower or tub there is an opening about 6x6 any suggestions on how to find out without tearing it all apart where the leak is?
This might help: czcams.com/video/5w9-O3vzauw/video.html
Do you have to drain the water heater to replace fittings or cut the pex? I have a leak on the first T from city water hook up
As long as you release the pressure in the system by opening a faucet or low point drain, you should be good. There shouldn’t be any reason to drain the water heater.
I have bubbles appearing on the outside of my camper, it is a 2017 3025RE Lite. I also have bubbles over my bed that feel like there is water in them. Could you give me a clue as to what is causing the problem? I had a hot water leak in September and got that fixed. I am confused as to what is causing this. I read about the intrusion theory and the water theory, Have had a master plumber try to figure it out and he can't find the source. Please help!
Oh boy, Debbie. That’s not good. Bubbles on the outside could be a delamination issue... either due to water getting between the fiberglass and its underlying support OR due to a manufacturing flaw. But if you’re seeing bubbles (water-filled?!?!) in the ceiling above your bed... THAT sounds like you have water getting in through a bad seal on your roof. Could be around a vent pipe, vent fan, or the air conditioner. You’re going to need a good RV service technician to check for leaks. We’d doubt it was plumbing-related.
In my travel trailer if I leave the pump on, ensuring all taps are off my pump will run for less then a second about 2-3 per day. I figured that wasn't much, so I would just turn it off when not using it. if off for a few hours and I turn it off is will run for maybe a full second. I figured this was normal, is it?
It is definitely normal for the pump to run a bit longer when first turned on, as it pressurizes the system. While our pump does not cycle at all after that initial power-up, unless being used of course, we're going with 1-2 times in an entire day for all of a second being nothing to worry about. If you want to be as prudent as you can, you could look in every available spot where you can actually see the plumbing (under cabinets, etc) to see if there are any signs of anything being wet at all. It could just be due to changes in temperature (like the water heater cycling). We had a minor leak behind our shower recently that we discovered when doing an unrelated project nearby. We found a small amount of water under a cabinet, and that led us to search for the source. Periodically inspecting for leaks isn't a bad practice, especially in your case, where that occasional pump cycling just might be a very minor leak.
Thank you. I will keep that in mind!
I have a hair scratcher of a problem and no one seems to know how to fix it. I have a water pressure problem in my trailer which is only a little over a year old when I’m hooked up to city water I have good pressure on the cold side of the Fossett and bad pressured on hot side and the hot and cold in the bathroom Are bad. when I’m on the 12 V pump I have good water pressure on the hot and cold in the bathroom and good hot water pressure in the kitchen but bad cold water pressure do you have any ideas what this could be
We're going to go out on a limb and guess that it's a check valve somewhere, maybe at the back of the water heater or at the water pump. Very odd, and we're not sure how we would even go about trouble-shooting it. Sorry we're not of more help on this one, but it sounds like it needs some careful hands-on from a good detective.
We bought a 2000 Chinook Concourse and found under the front drivers side floor mat was wet after a rain. We cannot find where it is leaking. My husband has removed the vent thing under the windshield wipers an found a big nest...he flushed it all out and recaulked everywhere he though could leak...no luck...we have had tons of rain and it is still leaking. The carpet is wet above to gas and brake and the floor in front of the gas and brake. Any advice would be so helpful. Thank you.
Hmmmm.... that's a tough one, as water can enter the RV (ceiling/walls/wherever) at ONE point... and travel surprising long distances before exiting (i.e. appearing as a leak) somewhere else. It's possible it's actually the windshield gasket itself that's not sealing properly. Or it could also be one of the "clearance" lights mounted above the cab/cockpit that has a bad seal... allowing water in higher than you expect, and then it's running down/around the windshield to come out by the pedals. Or it could be the door gasket not sealing properly. OR... it could be the driver's side window (either the seals that are visible where the window meets the door panels... or INSIDE the door where the window drip-pan is supposed to re-direct water that gets past those same seals away from vital parts).
Sorry we can't point to an obvious smoking gun on this... but there are a LOT of options for where water can access an RV... and it can be a long process of elimination to finally find the culprit! Hope you find it fast (or hope it stops raining soon)!
Thank you so much for all the good suggestions. He will check the things you mentioned and when we find it I will post it so maybe it will help someone else!
My name is Andy. Just tonight I had a problem with my fresh water fill valve, causing the fresh tank to over fill while hooked to city water. I have a 03 gas Mountain Aire 3778. Can you tell me if the valve is available on amazon? Either way can you advise a part number so if I need to contact Newmar, I can get it ordered? Thank you for your assistance. Andy
Hi Andy! Sorry to hear about your fresh water fill valve problem. We know what you're going through with that. What a nuisance! We never did find a suitable replacement on Amazon... mostly because we didn't want to have to deal with retrofitting something into that specific spot, since we didn't want to have to deal with adapting the hole through the water bay panel OR having to customize a new bracket to hold it into place. Since we had re-worked the setup of our under sink water filter (which used those same valves for the filter bypass for winterizing), we ended up using a spare we had on hand. Question: does your tank fill valve look just like ours from our video? If so... we'd recommend calling Newmar's Parts department and checking with them for the replacement. We tried looking on their online parts catalog ( comnet2.newmarcorp.com/instance1/servlet/WebDispatcher?mode=comnet&nextMode=&nextURL= ), but couldn't find it there. If you call Newmar, and they can't provide you with a direct replacement part for your tank fill valve for your coach... AND, if your valve looks EXACTLY like ours... ask them if they have replacements for either the under sink filter bypass valves OR the water heater bypass valves for an 05 Mountain Aire Diesel Pusher. Because ALL of those valves on our RV are identical!
Sorry we can't be more help... but hope that gets you going in the right direction to get things all fixed up!
RVgeeks thanks so much for the info. You were very helpful and I really appreciate the quick response.
I need that same valve!!!!!!!! Can you tell me where to get it ? I have a 2007 Dutchstar 4304 and I need a new black handle as well! Thanks so much!
Hi Brian! We happened to have a replacement valve left over from the installation of our Acuva water purifier. It’s the exact same one, so we simply reused it. Newmar doesn’t carry that exact valve anymore, but they should have a direct replacement. We suggest calling the Newmar parts department with your coach number, and they should be able to recommend a valve that will work.
hi guys I like you video ... I have the same problem but my is a travel trailer. and I don't have the valve you rv have so how can I fix that problem. ..
Hmmmm... that’s a tough one. It’s going to take some investigating on your part to sleuth our what your plumbing layout/flow is so that you can determine where the likely leak is. If you don’t have a tank-fill/city-water selector valve like ours, it’s possible the backflow preventer in your water pump is leaking and needs to be replaced. If possible, you could try screwing one into the water line between your tank and the pump (being sure it’s aligned correctly for the flow of water) to see if that stops the problem.
Ha HA.. you two are great... LOL
Thanks Doug! Glad you got a laugh. :)
hi! i have a 2008 Adirondack Dutchman and need to replace shower head and knobs but theres no access panel.help!
Hmmm... with the shower head, you should be able to unscrew it from the pipe protruding from the wall, and re-install the new one, without needing access behind the wall (although your install may, of course, be different). And when you say you need to replace the knobs... do you mean you also need to replace the valve(s) that control water flow? Or just the handles (for a new look)? If just the handles, look for a small insert that can be pried out of the handle to allow access to the mounting screw. If you need to replace the valve(s)... is there a chrome panel that surrounds the knobs? If so, that often covers a larger hole in the shower wall that would allow you to access the shower valve body itself. And... look online for a manual for your brand/model of shower faucet (if you can determine it)... since that might give you some insight into how it's installed, so you can reverse engineer it a bit.
But if NONE of that seems to apply... you may want to try posting your question over on the iRV2.com forums (irv2.com/forums)... it's free to join and post... and someone else with your make/model of RV may have tackled this project already and be able to give you more-exact guidance.
I have question related to induction stove top can you answer you can message me if need be
Sorry, but w've never even SEEN an induction cooktop, let along owned or used one, so we're surely no help on this one! We'd suggest checking out technomadia.com for some fellow full-times travelers that we know use an induction cooktop (and love it).
so, how many hours did this repair *Really* take :)
We always say that videoing ANY project makes it takes five times as long! LOL Without that, it would probably take about 30 minutes.
BRAVO , Geeks!!! Y'make an old Plumber's Helper/Son proud!! Thank the goddesses for Pex!! Methinks even your skills don't include sweating a copper joint or two!! ;)
Also: Huzzbandzz... Can't live with 'em, can't sell 'em for parts. [DUH!]
As always: Watch your tail swing... Keep th' greasy side down and keep it 'tweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeen th' ditches, Y'All!! :)
Thanks John! Great to hear from the plumber's right-hand man! :)
do video about bug bomb a rv please
Hi Matthew! We don't have any bugs to get rid of right now, but we did bug bomb our rig once many years ago. We can tell you exactly the BEST stuff to use is Raid Fumigator: amzn.to/2xYnyva
It's awesome because it's a smoke, not a spray, so gets in EVERYWHERE and leaves NO residue. Follow the directions and it will kill everything.
RVgeeks thanks you but does it need to be sealed up. I have a pop up will it work
Hmmm. We're pretty sure that the screening in a pop-up will allow the smoke to just escape and not do the job. It does require keeping the house/RV closed up during treatment. Assuming you only have screening, as with most pop-ups, in part of the rig, you might be able to make it work if you keep the pop-up completely closed during treatment. In that case, a singe canister on the floor right in the center of the rig would surely be enough. It's worth a try. Please let us know how you make out.
RVgeeks I will try. I tell you how it went but I need to wait until the camper is cleaned. Thank you so much
RVgeeks what happened if there is a lot of holes for venting in the floor?
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Thanks for ur reply. Let u know what I find ☹️
Help!! Our black water tank keeps filling up with water. Suggestions anyone?
Hi Mary. Can you tell us the make and model of your RV? That would give us a better idea what the plumbing system is like.
Good thing you have the flexibility to do a job like that, lol. 😀
I think I broke my back... so I do now! LOL I think I'm getting too old for all these contortions. 😵
I save on using electric ..have no pumps ,no water tanks , Lift with my hand & water bottles . Us deep dish pans (have no sinks -no drains) Empty by hand(more good exercise) dish pan water into 5 gal buckets-that have covers..only fill half way=5 gals of waste water is too heavy for me.Shower by dipping 2 quart pickers of heated water over me self..soap & rinse-poof i am clean..
First :)
10 sec answer. The check valve failed.
That's true, but without diagnosing it correctly first, you could easily replace the wrong part for no reason.
@@RVgeeks I agree, all I'm saying is it doesn't take 7 1/2 min to say this. If the pump is cycling without your using water then it is one of three things, A. A leaking fauct/toilet valve, B. A leaking pipe or water tank etc, or C. A back flow preventer/check valve, and once you said city water was filling your tank it was clear what the problem was. When people are looking for answers to their problems and are plowing through many of these videos it is just troublesome to listen to a person talk on and on about too many details that really don't matter much. This is just my feedback, others may not agree, but thank you for taking the time to post it all the same.
The most common request we get is to make our videos more detailed so that people without much or any knowledge of the topic can understand it all. You definitely don’t fall into that category, so we understand you need less detail. Thanks for the input! 👍
Sorry, when are we going to hear some rag time?
czcams.com/video/jkk7W_jM1iI/video.html
😉