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Water leak
This is a view facing up to my water tank as I'm lying on the ground in front of the left dually.

I'm going to drain the tank immediately and check for internal moisture.

Any suggestions on a fix?

2021 Mid Bath

Re: Water leak
Reply #1
Tough to tell what I'm looking at. Is it the fresh water tank's drain pipe or it is the gray holding tank.
If the fresh, the drain pipe may be leaking where it attaches to the bottom of the tank.
The best way to reattach the pipe is to spin-weld or hot-air weld it.
Cracks in the tank can be air-welded.

Larry
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze

Re: Water leak
Reply #2
Tough to tell what I'm looking at. Is it the fresh water tank's drain pipe or it is the gray holding tank.
If the fresh, the drain pipe may be leaking where it attaches to the bottom of the tank.
The best way to reattach the pipe is to spin-weld or hot-air weld it.
Cracks in the tank can be air-welded.

Larry
It's the freshwater drain pipe.

It looks very difficult to get to.
2021 Mid Bath

Re: Water leak
Reply #3

I have no idea how the tank comes out, hidden under the kitchen cabinet.
A call to the Mothership should provide some hints.
Let us know what they say or you find out on your own.

Looking at the photo, there appears to be a metal plate around the pipe. Possibly if it was removed, along with the foam insulation around the pipe, the bottom of the tank may be exposed, enough to allow the connection to be cleaned and glued with a plastic epoxy.
Amazon.com: J-B Weld 8237 PlasticWeld Plastic Repair Epoxy Putty - 2 oz.:...

Larry

As an Amazon Associate Lazy Daze Owners' Group earns from qualifying purchases.
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze

Re: Water leak
Reply #4
I have no idea how the tank comes out, hidden under the kitchen cabinet.
A call to the Mothership should provide some hints.
Let us know what they say or you find out on your own.

Looking at the photo, there appears to be a metal plate around the pipe. Possibly if it was removed, along with the foam insulation around the pipe, the bottom of the tank may be exposed, enough to allow the connection to be cleaned and glued with a plastic epoxy.
Amazon.com: J-B Weld 8237 PlasticWeld Plastic Repair Epoxy Putty - 2 oz.:...

Larry
Thanks Larry as always!
I'll post back when I solve this.
As an Amazon Associate Lazy Daze Owners' Group earns from qualifying purchases.
2021 Mid Bath

Re: Water leak
Reply #5
I had a leaking water pump on our prior LazyDaze - a 2015 Twin King. I became aware of the leak having noticed water (and mildew), in the outside storage compartment through which the drain pipe runs. Vince (Mother Ship service manager), was very helpful.  He advised starting by visually inspecting the tank and water pump area for leaks. In my case, 2015 TK, beneath and behind the kitchen drawers.  I found that water had been leaking onto the floorboard and trickling down the outside of the drainpipe. I then checked water pump fittings and housing for leaks (a common cause of leaks). I found that the water pump’s pre-filter bowl was cracked.  Once I replaced the cracked part the leak stopped.  I’m not suggesting this is the problem in your case but the idea of starting with an inspection of the tank and water pump seems relevant.

Good luck identifying and fixing your leak.

Warren
Warren
2019 MB “Dream Catcher”
Jeep Wrangler JL

Re: Water leak
Reply #6
I think Warren has a good idea.  Water travels, that can include down a pipe so it is not actually the pipe that is leaking.

Since this is fresh water, I would check that anything you use for repairs is made for potable water so if it is exposed to the inside of the water tank (or pipe), it doesn't leach anything into your water you don't want there.
Jane
Jane & Scott
Currently have a 1989 TK  LD we did a lot of upgrades on.
Bigfoot 25RQ Twin on order with early summer 2024 ETA

Our smartphone autocorrects into very poor English.
 We disclaim the illusion of ignorance this creates as we have enough ignorance we rightly claim.

Re: Water leak
Reply #7
I had a leaking water pump on our prior LazyDaze - a 2015 Twin King. I became aware of the leak having noticed water (and mildew), in the outside storage compartment through which the drain pipe runs. Vince (Mother Ship service manager), was very helpful.  He advised starting by visually inspecting the tank and water pump area for leaks. In my case, 2015 TK, beneath and behind the kitchen drawers.  I found that water had been leaking onto the floorboard and trickling down the outside of the drainpipe. I then checked water pump fittings and housing for leaks (a common cause of leaks). I found that the water pump’s pre-filter bowl was cracked.  Once I replaced the cracked part the leak stopped.  I’m not suggesting this is the problem in your case but the idea of starting with an inspection of the tank and water pump seems relevant.

Good luck identifying and fixing your leak.

Warren
Just checked.
Water pump and  pipe connections are dry.
2021 Mid Bath

Re: Water leak
Reply #8
It definitely looks like the leak is coming from the drain pipe connection.
Getting it's mounting plate off is going to be challenging. There is the wheel well in the way and it's wood mount  glued over the plate.

If I could remove the front wheel well plate that would help.
2021 Mid Bath

 
Re: Water leak
Reply #9
It definitely looks like the leak is coming from the drain pipe connection.
Getting it's mounting plate off is going to be challenging. There is the wheel well in the way and it's wood mount  glued over the plate.
If I could remove the front wheel well plate that would help.

Did you call the Mothership?
Steve or Vince should be able to provide some advice. You cannot be the first to have leaky tank in a T/K..

Larry
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze

Re: Water leak
Reply #10
Did you call the Mothership?
Steve or Vince should be able to provide some advice. You cannot be the first to have leaky tank in a T/K..

Larry
Good idea.

I was able to remove the valve assembly at the pipe's end. This affords me more space to work in. I'm chipping wood and goop away to get to the plate mounting screws.

On edit...

Just talked with Mothership. I'm on the right track.
2021 Mid Bath

Re: Water leak
Reply #11
Got the old PVC drain pipe unscrewed and out and prepping the new. I will clean the tank threads carefully with a small nylon brush.

After I install the drain pipe (capped) and check for leaks I plan to cut and glue in a ball valve followed by a hose thread fitting which seal with a threaded brass cap with washer.

For the connection going into the tank.
Should I use thread tape, compound, or as I just saw on YouTube both? They applied the tape and added a thin coating of compound. I'm leaning towards that.



2021 Mid Bath

Re: Water leak
Reply #12
"...with a small nylon brush."

Previously used tooth brushes are excellent for that sort of job!   ;)
Steve S.
Lazy Bones & Cedar
2004 30'IB (Island Bed)
Yesterday is History, Tomorrow is a Mystery
Live for the day!

Re: Water leak
Reply #13
I'm a little confused here, what was actually broken or leaking? Just the drain pipe?

Jon..
1994 MB

Re: Water leak
Reply #14
I'm a little confused here, what was actually broken or leaking? Just the drain pipe?

Jon..

As best as I can tell it was leaking from where the drain pipe screws into the tank.
There was no thread tape and I can see what appears to be old compound residue. Not much was sealing it anymore.
2021 Mid Bath

Re: Water leak
Reply #15
I put 3 wraps of tape on the pipe threads focusing at the end of the threads where they terminate on the fitting. I then smeared a thin coat of thread compound into the entire threads.

I threaded it into the tank snugly with the pipe capped.
Filled 6 gallons into the tank.

No leaks so far.

I'll let it sit for a few hours to test before cutting and installing the valve assembly.

It's been difficult but hopefully this solves it.
2021 Mid Bath

Re: Water leak
Reply #16
Good work and thanks for sharing how you are doing it..
I would go for the gusto and fill the tank before proceeding...just in case.
If still leak free, being filled will not make a difference in gluing the valve in place.

Larry
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze

Re: Water leak
Reply #17
Good work and thanks for sharing how you are doing it..
I would go for the gusto and fill the tank before proceeding...just in case.
If still leak free, being filled will not make a difference in gluing the valve in place.

Larry

You read my mind.
I filled it more and the leaking started again sadly.

This freshwater tank is so embedded this may require a Mothership repair.


On edit...

Just talked to Vince. I'm taking it in next Wednesday for a diagnoses.
2021 Mid Bath

Re: Water leak
Reply #18
Well it's an ongoing saga but I found the problem finally.
The tank drain threads have a crack.
Lazy Daze is closed or I'd call Vince back for advice.

This crack isn't surprising to me considering the weight of the stock brass drain valve assembly at the plastic drain pipe's end. It had one metal strap for side to side but nothing supporting the weight. After 24 years of vibration it's no wonder.

The only solution may be to coat the PVC pipe threads and the tank threads with some sort of adhesive like 3M 5200 and thread the pipe on?

I'd let it set up for good while before messing with gluing the valve on.

Larry, would 5200 work in this scenario?
It's a last ditch try.
Vince told me removing the tank is a huge task which for me is probably unaffordable.

It's difficult to see in this pic but the crack is highlighted by some thread compound I used. I can stick my fingernail in and feel it's cracked.

This is a view from me laying on my back and looking up.




2021 Mid Bath

Re: Water leak
Reply #19
Is your fresh water tank (other than the drain pipe) all inside the kitchen sink cabinet?  I think ours is and the connecting pipe to the water pump easily was removed and replaced.
Do you have pex or the old grey pipe inside (eg tank to water pump)?

While I think finding a way to securely connect the new pipe using some kind of sealant or gasket is the easier choice, if that doesn't work you may be able to remove (then replace) some small parts of the cabinet to take the tank out that way and put a new one in. Unless Lazy Daze has done a massive glue in place job on that tank.

Jane

Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone
Jane & Scott
Currently have a 1989 TK  LD we did a lot of upgrades on.
Bigfoot 25RQ Twin on order with early summer 2024 ETA

Our smartphone autocorrects into very poor English.
 We disclaim the illusion of ignorance this creates as we have enough ignorance we rightly claim.

Re: Water leak
Reply #20
Is your fresh water tank (other than the drain pipe) all inside the kitchen sink cabinet?  I think ours is and the connecting pipe to the water pump easily was removed and replaced.
Do you have pet or the old grey pipe inside (eg tank to water pump)?

While I think finding a way to securely connect the new phone using some kind of sealant or gasket is the easier choice, if that doesn't work you may be able to remove (then replace) some small parts of the cabinet to take the tank out that way and put a new one in. Unless Lazy Daze has done a massive glue in place job on that tank.

Jane

Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone
Connecting line to the water pump is dry as is the water pump area.
This tank was installed before the sink cabinetry making it a big and expensive deal to replace.
I'll call Vince Monday at the Mothership send let him know what I found and ask his suggestions. I see know no other way than a "glue in place" connection. It would be a one shot try that I can't get wrong.
2021 Mid Bath

Re: Water leak
Reply #21
You have done a great job so far of tracking the leak, finding the source and trying to deal with it.  I would NOT try the 5200.  I don't know what the mothership will have to go through to repair or get the tank out and replace it, but having stuff stuck on that cannot be removed won't be helpful.

Ken F in WY
'08 MB

Re: Water leak
Reply #22
You have done a great job so far of tracking the leak, finding the source and trying to deal with it.  I would NOT try the 5200.  I don't know what the mothership will have to go through to repair or get the tank out and replace it, but having stuff stuck on that cannot be removed won't be helpful.

Ken F in WY
The gluing (should it take place) I don't think would hinder removal other than a sawsall to cut the drain pipe close to the tank.

Here's the thing. It's a good rig and the drivetrain has under 60K on it and well maintained with a Banks kit. I've done extensive upgrades to the coach and it's inner workings and appliances. However, it's a 1995. I'm not sure I would be willing to spend thousands more replacing the water tank.
This is an awful place to be. Lots of TLC in this rig.

I will talk to Vince Monday.
It doesn't appear the drain is separate from the tank. In other words not a removable bulkhead. Wouldn't that have been nice?
There may be a way to simply plug the 3/4" drain opening and install, albeit smaller, another drain close by.
At this point I'm willing to go without a drain as we don't drink the water anyway. Not good I know but if we must remove cabinets I will need to sell her.
2021 Mid Bath

Re: Water leak
Reply #23
Before you try anything like 5200, I would find someone who is experienced with repairing plastic tanks.  Farm supply places should be a good resource since a lot of agricultural tanks are plastic.

I bet it can be repaired well by someone with the proper tools and knowledge. 

Good luck in your search.

Rich
'03 MB in NC
2003 MB

Re: Water leak
Reply #24
The problem I see using 5200 and other sealants is getting the sealant into the crack.  None of the sealants we use are thin enough to be drawn into the depths of the crack.
If me, I would consider using a small saw and cutting the crack open, before filling the cut and threads with plastic epoxy and then threading in a new piece of PVC pipe, its threads also coated in epoxy.
Keep the pipe as short as possible to reduce the chance of it getting hit sideways, the longer the pipe, the more leverage trying to break it again.

Since the cabinetry is screwed and glued to the walls, removing the cabinet is not possible without destroying it. I would guess LD will remove the counter top, along with the sink, then lift the tank out after the plumbing connections are disconnected.
Take a look at how the counter top is secured to the cabinets, to see if it is designed to be removable.
It may be something you can do yourself, if so the tank can be repaired.

Larry
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze