[Neweller]

A
1238 2/26/2004 1:16:41 PM 2/26/2004 Jon Kabbe jckabbe@earthlink.net 77 Coach Heater Boost Pump I thought I would update whoever is interested in my installation of a boost pump in the engine coolant circuit that feeds the heaters.

My system is 1/2" copper pipe. I bought a 1" Bergstrom pump and installed in the hose just downstream from the engine water pump outlet. I connected it electrically to a solenoid that was left vacant in the right rear electrical panel when the Bendix cruise control was removed. That way I didn't need to run a heavier wire all the way from the front not did I put significant load on the ignition switch that already has too much load on it.

Now as soon as the engine shows the slightest heat I can have heat up front even at low engine speeds. I didn't have this before installing the pump even though I thoroughly flushed all the lines. I still may have a restriction but I doubt it. At high engine speeds I can turn the pump off and it makes no noticeable difference in the front heater output. I suspect the oversize pump doesn't make a restriction when turned off. I would like to take credit for being so smart but it was just dummb luck.

On a recent winter trip I was still chilly while on the road in temperatures below 20 degrees. Not bad but not comfortable either. Then I discovered that my main entry door was slightly bowed outwards in the middle. I added a little foam weatherstrip and what a difference. We cruised home in 20 degree weather with only the defroster on by mistake and were almost entirely comfortable.

Lessons learned: the pump will help heat get to you earlier and eliminating air leaks will definitely help keep the heat in. I can send a picture of the pump setup if anyone is interested.

All the best to Newell for a great coach even when it is old enough to have voted in the last election.