Par Jabsco head pump problem

[Alice C.]

We recently replaced the pump assembly on our head. When we attempt to pump water into the bowl, at first there is resistance in the pump handle when we try to push down on it. After a few gentle pushes down, it releases and pumps normally. Any ideas why it does this? Is this new part defective? Any suggestions would be appreciated. Alice C.

 

[Peggie Hall/HeadMistress]

Defective wet/dry valve

A VERY common problem in Jabsco toilets. If you look at the exploded drawing for your toilet, you'll see that the wet/dry valve is just a little doodad that moves to either block or or unblock the intake...due to a design, tooling, or production flaw that Jabsco doesn't seem to be interested in correcting, that little doodad hangs...creating exactly the symptoms you describe. Call Jabsco for a replacement wet/dry valve or send the whole pump back for a new one under warranty (with no guarantee it won't have the same defect)...or better yet, return the pump and replace the whole toilet with Raritan PH II.

 

[Dale I]

Peggy...

Is the back pressure on the exhaust mode symptomatic of a Willcox-Crittendon unit as well? Have they got similar internals?

 

[Peggie Hall/HeadMistress]

Not likely...

First thing I'd check is the tank vent...backpressure is a good indication that it's blocked. If that's not it, the toilet may need rebuilding.