Fleetwood Tioga Montara 1995 Manual page 28

20
Avoid leaving water in the tank when the motor home is
not in use.Turn the water pump OFF beforedrainingthe
water tank. Whenever possible, drain the fresh water
tank before traveling. Water in the tank will reduce the
carrying capacity of the motor home. See "Motor
Home Loading" section of the "ON THE ROAD"
chapter.
The Water Pump
The on-board fresh water system is pressurized by a
self-priming, 12-volt DC pump. The pump operates
automatically when the pump power switch is ON and
a faucet is opened. When the faucets are closed, the
pump shuts off. At free flow, the pump draws approxi-
mately 7 to 7-1/2 amps, and can run dry for extended
periods without damage. A 15-amp fuse at the con-
verter panel protects the pump circuit. See "ELECTRI-
CAL SYSTEMS" chapter.
Turn the pump master switch ON to pressurize the
system. When a faucet is opened after the initial filling
of the tank, the water may sputter for a few seconds.
This Is normal and is not cause for concern. The water
flow will become steady when all air is bled from the
water lines.
Water Filter
Dirt, mineral scale, and organic matterarefiltered outof
the fresh water system by an in-line water filter on the
inlet side of the water pump. If you suspect a clogged
filter, it is easily removed and cleaned.
Inspect the filter after the first 90 days of use, clean if
necessary, and inspect annually thereafter.
Loosen the clamp at the inlet end of the filter.
Pull the water line off the filter.
Unscrew the filter from the water pump.
Turn each end of the filter and pull apart.
Flush out and clean screen.
Reverse procedure to Install.
Operate the water pump and check for leaks.
Troubleshooting the Fresh Water System
Water system problems usually fall into two categories:
inherent system problems, and problems caused by
neglect. System problems are usually the result of road
vibration and campsite water pressure variations. Prob-
lems of neglect usually stem from failure to clean filters,
improper winterization, and poor battery maintenance.
Most water system problems can be avoided by consci-
entious maintenance.
Leaks
Vibration, flexing and twisting while traveling can work
pipe fittings loose. Check all plumbing for leaks at least
once a year. If the water pump runs when a faucet is not
open, suspect a leak. Be sure the tank drain valves are
tightly closed. Leaks occur most often around threaded
fittings. If necessary, tighten or clean and tighten the
fittings. Do not overtighten fittings. Connections at
galley and lavy fixtures should not be tightened with a
wrench. They will normally seal with hand-tightening. If
a leak persists at one of the fittings, disconnect it
completely and check for mineral deposits or other
foreign matter at the seating surfaces. Clean the sur-
faces thoroughly and reinstall the fitting.
Connections at the water tank, pump and valves are
made with special clamps. They can be replaced with
standard aircraft type hose clamps.
Leaks caused by freezing damage can be prevented by
proper winterization of the system. See "STORAGE"
chapter of this manual. Freezing damage is usually
extensive and may include a burst water tank, split
piping, and a damaged water pump, toilet, and water
heater. If you experience this type of damage, repairs
can best be made by an authorized Fleetwood dealer.
Sanitizing the Fresh Water System
Sanitize the fresh water tank and piping approximately
every three months, and whenever the motor home sits
for a prolonged period. This will discourage the growth
of bacteria and other organisms that can contaminate
the water supply. Use a chlorine/fresh water. rinse as
follows: ..
1. Prepare a solution of 1/4-cup household liquid
chlorine bleach (5% sodium hypochlorite) to
one gallon of water for each 15 gallons of tank
capacity.
2. Close drain valves and faucets, pour chlorine
solution into the fresh water tank filler spout,
and complete filling with fresh water.
3. Turn water pump switch ON. (Be sure you
have 12-volt DC power.) Open all faucets
individually until waterflows steadily, then turn
off. This will purge any air from the lines.
4. Top off water tank with fresh water and wait
three hours.
5. . Drain the entire system by opening all fresh
water tank valves, faucets, and plumbing line
drain valves.