How do you check out plumbing in winter?

maznblu · 01-23-2004, 07:46 PM

I'm thinking about looking at some used A/S motorhomes in this general region before the camping/traveling season gets underway. What stops me, however, is how to adequately check out the systems, especially plumbing before making any purchase decision. Presumably the owners of the rigs will have them fully winterized and wouldn't be too happy about running water through just to prove no leaks now, then having to winterize again. Any suggestions or helpful hints?
Thanks.
Eugenie

74Argosy24MH · 01-23-2004, 08:24 PM

Air pressure. A small portable air tank with the hose adapted to fit the kitchen faucet threads. 25 lbs of air would be enough. A big leak will be noticable immediately, the gauge will show smaller ones over time.

John

jim8860 · 01-23-2004, 09:24 PM

I had the same poblem. When Iwas looking at my MH it was a few day's before Christmas, and boy was it cold. I took the MH home in January.I was planing my first trip in early March. What I did before my trip was, I heated the MH up to temp. then with the heat on you should be able to to un-winterize the MH. Make a deal with a little foot note if there is any problems with the plumbing you will get X back in cash to fix any problems that may arise. After all said and done re-winterize it yourself or bring it to your RV dealer.

**john hd** · 01-24-2004, 07:35 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by 74Argosy24MH
Air pressure. A small portable air tank with the hose adapted to fit the kitchen faucet threads. 25 lbs of air would be enough. A big leak will be noticable immediately, the gauge will show smaller ones over time.

John

good idea john, one could do the same with a quick disconnect at the city water inlet.

kinda a leak down test, even with antifreeze in the system any loss of air pressure could be quickly discovered.

john

74Argosy24MH · 01-24-2004, 08:15 AM

I thought about the city inlet first, but I figured as cold as it is here the tank would loose 15 lbs of pressure just getting to outside air temp.

John

**john hd** · 01-24-2004, 08:43 AM

good point john, either way, it sure beats buying something with leaking plumbing!

john