Water question

[Tin Hut]

I'm still trying to figure out the water system on my '67 Tradewind. When hooked up to city water this weekend I notice water dripping out of the tank filler even though the lid was on as tight as possible. My instruction manual (still have!) says to make sure the red valve handle on the pipe under the gaucho is closed to prevent the tank from filling when in on city water. I did this and still seem to fill the tank up. Don't know if then valve is not closing all the way or if I'm not doing something right. My water pump does not work and I plan to replace but with water coming out around the lid of the filler neck I'm wondering how the new pump could pressurize the tank anyway. So...another question is should the filler neck lid have a gasket or is it supposed to be truly air tight? I'd appreciate any tips on how to stay hooked up to city water without filling the tank. Thanks all.

[overlander64]

Greetings Tin Hut!

Unless your water system has been changed or was a special order, it should be a demand type system with an acrylic (plastic) tank. The filler cap probably is designed to vent to allow air to be drawn into the tank as water is removed - - there is a visible hole near the center of the fill cap on my Overlander and a very small opening in the cap on my Minuet.

I suspect that your problem may be with the city/on-board water control. On my Overlander, the valve itself was frozen (corroded) and didn't turn but the handle was stripped and turned making it appear that the valve was working. The temporary solution was to take the handle to a plumbing store to get a replacement and then several days of soaking the valve with "Liquid Wrench" until the valve began functioning - - it wouldn't seal completely but it did identify the valve as the culprit.

Good luck with your investigation!

Kevin

[Tin Hut]

Thanks Kevin. I'll take a look at what is involved in getting the handle off. Hopefully just a lug nut on the sodered copper pipe. It drove me crazy dripping all weekend and keeping the pad wet. It stopped only when I turned off the city water.

[davidz71]

Tin Hut,
Are you using an in-line pressure regulator with your hose?

[Tin Hut]

There is a pressure regulator built into the '67 right by the inlet. I do want to get one to put on the hose so I don't have to assume mine is working. Do you have one you'd recommend?

[davidz71]

I bought the metal regulator sold through Camping World without the gauge but went back and bought 2 of the gauges. I'm a gadget freak so I put one in front of the regulator to see what the park pressure is and one on the other end to tell me what the regulator is doing. They have a regulator with a built-in gauge and another one that is adjustable. I think they are made by Marshall. Don't trust the regulator that is built into the trailer plumbing. It can go bad and that is why it is best to have one attached to the park faucet then attach your hose. It not only protects your trailer plumbing but also your hose from excessive pressure.