water system ?

[dbenson]

We are first time camper owners. 2002 shadow cruiser/ fun finder, 139. We are having trouble getting the water to work. Outside water from a hose works but using the pump does not. We can only find one valve and it doesn't seem to matter what way we turn it, it does not bring water into the sink or shower. We so wish we had a manual to help us. There appears to be antifreeze in one line but we see no antifreeze bottle. We have not started the water heater as of yet for fear we have no water in the heater and don't want to burn it up.
We appreciate any help you can give us. We wan't to go camping but don't feel we are ready.

[profdant139]

First, congrats on your "new" trailer -- used T-139s are hard to find!

Second, some questions -- do you have water in your fresh water tank? In that model, I think the tank was under the left dinette seat.

Assuming you have water, does the pump run at all when you open the kitchen faucet? It will make a loud humming noise. If you hear the noise and no water comes out, close the faucet. Do not let the pump run dry for more than a few seconds -- it could burn out.

If you do not hear the pump at all, are you connected to a power source?

If you have power and the pump is working, check the valves running from the fresh water tank to the pump. Usually (but not always), the valve is open when it points away from the tank and is closed when it is perpendicular to the tank.

Let us know how it is going -- don't give up. All of us were once "newbie" campers, and I did not have any manuals for our old 2003 T-139, so I know the feeling of being lost and clueless. You will soon be an expert!

And yes, do not run the water heater till the pump is working.

[Ted Kenner]

You have probably long since solved the problem but to help others.
The antifreeze suction valve was probably still open.
It near the pump at the base of the clear plastic suction hose.
Ted.