Water Pumping Issue

[jet2test]

We have a 2011 International, and are currently troubleshooting a water problem back home not traveling. I welcome any suggestions. There is just air coming out of facets and fixtures when running on the pump (pump is running) and the potable water tank. Water Tank is full, tank drain is closed and fill cap is tight and tanks vent is open. We are not connected to city water. This is our first trip of the season after coming out of winterization storage. Now end of last year I installed a winterization valve and tube fitting to accomadate winterization between the particle filter and the pump inlet. It functioned correctly drawing up the water antifreeze into the system. I confirmed the winterization valve was in the correct position for trouble shooting but removed it to allow easier trouble shooting.

Troubleshooting Steps:
We cleaned out the particle filter
Blew air into line from pump in to water tanks and that's seems clear.
Checked that all visible connections are tight.
Checked pump by using short tube connected to pump inlet and water jug indeed pumps water.
Opened Pump and internal switch works and no visible damage inside the diaphragm #Shurflo 4900-201 water pump.

I welcome any suggestions, system diagram included.
Thank You

[richard5933]

Sounds like you might have an air leak in the intake side of the pump, which is usually due to a loose connection or the screen filter isn't firmly closed.

[jet2test]

Thanks Richard, I checked then replaced the particle filter and rechecked all of my connections. Still no joy. When I put my hand over the running pump intake I thought the suction felt weak. I suppose my pump could be damaged inside beyond what I could see and inspecting it? Might be new pump time $$. I appreciate your suggestions.

[jeffmc306]

I agree with Richard that it could be a leak. While servicing my filter, I did not notice the o-ring seal had fallen off when I removed it. I had no suction afterwards. I retraced my steps and found the o-ring on the floor next to the pump. After replacing it, the pump primed and everything worked.

[richard5933]

If you think that the pump might be bad you might be able to find a rebuild kit for that pump online. If you do rebuild it and save it as a spare and then install a new one.

Pumps are low-cost enough that it's not worth taking the chance of it crapping out during a trip.

Of course, double and triple check for leaks first. You might be able to pull the pump from the motor and see if you have a bit of debris in there causing an issue.