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bkenobi's avatar
bkenobi
Explorer
May 13, 2019

How to track down water leak in NL camper

I have seen evidence of water under the cabinets for a but now. I thought it was from my propane box so I resealed it as well as all surrounding penetrations. Last weekend I noticed some water dripping from the forward drivers side jack mount but inspection shows there is no water above that which should be able to leak (just the filler hose and vent at the side of the camper. Since it didn't rain and I didn't move the TC (so no sloshing), it must be internal. I noticed the night before the pump ran at night, so I assume there must be a leak.

This weekend the TC was aimed slightly uphill (last was level or slightly downhill). The water was seen dripping from the dump port (running down the outside, so not waste water). One night I left the pump on and there was dripping the next day. Next night I left it off and no dripping. Next I left it on and no dripping. Final night left on and pump ran and dripping. So, it seems inconsistent but clearly a leak in my mind.

In my NL I can remove some drawers to see behind the cabinets but I can't easily see everything. Other than sourcing an inspection camera, are there any suggestions? I will talk to the dealer, but I'm not excited about paying $100/hr to look around if I can do that first.
  • There are a few lines though (kitchen sink, hot water tank, bathroom sink, toilet, outside shower). If I had full access, it would be easy to see and even replace everything.
  • Sounds like it’s related to the water to me as well. I’d probably run a new line. It would take less time than figuring out what part is leaking. You could have a crack etc.
  • Is there any way to work on pex fittings outside of cutting them out?
  • The pump can kick in if the diaphragm is not 100%. Not always a leak in the line.

    I always would leave the pump off at night and during the day just in case.

    If you have a small digital camera or a smart phone with a light stick it behind the drawers and in places that your head will not reach to take pictures. Will help to narrow it down before taking apart.
  • I assume that is correct (small leak that bleeds pressure till the pump kicks in). My best thought right now is to run it while leaking and get an inspection camera in there to hopefully find it. Was looking for other suggestions from experienced TC owners.
  • If I followed the sequence right, it sounds like a plumbing leak and the pump runs to bring the pressure back up.
    Someone else might chime in but I wonder if you can pressure test the plumbing like is done with residential.