Head pump not working

hooligan6a · #1 (**permalink**) 12-24-2009

I have a Raritan PH2 head less then 2 years old and it takes 15 to 20 pumps to flush it. Sometimes it backs up. I replaced the joker valve, no help. Someway to clean out hose? acid?

roline · #2 (**permalink**) 12-24-2009

Tank size, location, vent hose? need more information....

btrayfors · #3 (**permalink**) 12-24-2009

The PH II is one of the most reliable heads aboard, providing you treat it well.

I'd start with some vinegar....pump it in enough so it's in all hoses and let it sit overnite. A couple of treatments might do the trick of helping clear any hose obstructions.

Also, could be your replaceable pump parts need replacing..not just the joker valve. Raritan makes a repair kit with the necessary parts for about $60-70.

Bill

JimsCAL · #4 (**permalink**) 12-24-2009

Time for a rebuild. The excessive pumping says the pump valves are gone.

GaryHLucas · #5 (**permalink**) 12-25-2009

All reciprocating pumps have two valves, an intake valve and a discharge valve. The joker valve is the discharge valve. The intake valve is the flapper valve at the bottom of the pump cylinder. The pump piston also has a seal around it. If that leaks by it also will not pump. If you look into the head while pumping you may get a hint of what has failed. If the intake flapper valve is failed you'll see water pushed back into the head on the down stroke. If the joker valve has failed you won't pull water out of the bowl, and the level will stay fairly constant. A failed piston seal would be indicated by it being real easy to stroke the pump, because it isn't rubbing against the cylinder. Hope that helps.