Repairing an A'van Water Pump

Repairing an A'van Water Pump

The standard water pump fitted to all units is an excellent unit manufactured in the USA. It is a combination hand pump, mains pressure and 12 volt electric pump. It is called a Low Boy Triple Action Pump and yes they are available from your dealer or if you live in the "bush" from Caravan Accessories in Sydney. Part Number is 80663100. The repair kit is part number 80663105 (more info on page 140 of their catalogue). The web address is www.caravanacc.com.au and email sales@caravanacc.com.au. The pump is made by Leisure Components, 16730 Gridley Road, Cerritos, CA 90703-1730 USA - Lowboy Model 131-4. Their cat. no. for a repair kit is #199-9. Interestingly the USA factory recommend fitting a Shurflo 163-2 City Water Regulator. As we all know these DO NOT come fitted as standard by A'van. This is a shame as if a hose comes off due to high pressure it can ruin your van if not detected quickly. A pressure reducer costs around $70.00 in Australia and most manufacturers have realised that they are not an accessory and fitted them as standard.

To remove the pump simply undo the four screws in the bench top. Hoses are held on with simple worm drive hose clips. These must be undone to service the pump. If the cables are too short you will have to cut them and remake the connections as shown here. If you regularly use mains pressure be certain to do up the clips tightly. If you modify your system at all please avoid using plastic cement as it plays havoc with the valves.

NOTE: If your pump fails, before racing out and buying a kit or a new one, we suggest you check all hoses for tightness as air leaking in will cause them not to work. Look for kinks in the supply hose, particularly in the converter box, if you are in the "naughty" habit of storing gear in there! We have heard of two cases where the pump was full of ants. This can only happen if the van is not used for a long period. Pressurising with town water will usually clear this without disassembly.

Bob Eustace