Rebuilding the hand pump

[Barko1]

My 98 Grandby has a hand pump that I suspect many of the campers have, a Valterra Rocket!!
http://www.pplmotorhomes.com/parts/rv-pumps-water/hand-water-pump.htm

I have mine hooked to a little 12v pump but still use the manual function from time to time and it seemed like it was losing its prime so since I was taking it out to replace the countertop I decided to do something about it. I found a rebuild kit available from RV dealers, cost me $11. I'll install it shortly and report back but here is what you get.

 

[brett13]

Dumb question here: I have a 12v pump on a switch I use. Which way should the lever be, up or down, when using the electric water pump? It seems to work both ways, but that seems odd to me.

 

[Barko1]

Not sure I understand how it works both ways? You mean water comes out with the handle in either position? If so I think you might need a rebuild Pushing the handle away turns it off and is supposed to hold prime. I also have a little 12v in the line with a switch but no water comes out if the handle is pushed back.

 

[brett13]

Not sure I understand how it works both ways? You mean water comes out with the handle in either position? If so I think you might need a rebuild Pushing the handle away turns it off and is supposed to hold prime. I also have a little 12v in the line with a switch but no water comes out if the handle is pushed back.


Yup. Whether the handle is up or forward, water comes out when I flick the switch. Still holds its prime and works as a hand pump too. That's why I'm confused. Maybe my water pump is doing steroids?

 

[Barko1]

Well my rebuild hit a big snag. I separated the top from the bottom and removed (loosened) the plastic nut on the handle, took out the "cam" screw inside. Then it says slide out handle Mine will not move, not matter what, so I can't fit 80% of the replacement parts. I replaced the little flapper in the bottom. I sent them a note but haven't heard anything back. There was no give in that sucker at all. I reinstalled it and it is pumping fine. I guess I'm a mechanical jinx