Vacuflush Holding Tank Sensors

[almostenuff]

I have a 2005 390DA and the 1/2 sensor apparently doesn't indicate. I called the manufacturer and I was told that the individual sensors can be removed. How should I remove them, clean them and reinstall them. Thanks!

 

[jgoedd99]

I did that this spring in my 1998 370. Don't know if yours is the same, but i can tell you what i did. There are three float type sensors (MT, 1/2, full) that consist of a float that rides up and down on a rod. The float and/or rod accumulate gunk and the sensor no longer moves. All sensors are mounted on a common plate that is easily removed from top of holding tank (unscrewed). Unscrew the sensor mounting plate and pull that out and clean all the sensors and rods. I used a 50/50 solution of white vinegar along with a toothbrush to remove the worst stuff. The vinegar dissolves calcium build up. CLR would probably work too.

Just be careful with wire connections as the wires are pretty thin (20 or 22 gauge). The whole thing could be unscrewed without having to disconnect the wires, providing i cut all the wire ties securing the extra wire (gives you slack).

While in there i cleaned the tank too, and had to replace one of the float retaining lock washers (at end of rod) that was missing.

Good luck

JohnG

 

[cod]

If your looking for a quick fix, unscrew the sensor, leaving the rod in the tank and leaving the wire connected, shake it violently up and down. I did this 2 seasons ago and it still works fine.... Takes all of 5 minutes..

 

[Four Suns]

also, make sure you feed people food that constantly gives them the runs so you have no sludge in the tank.

 

[almostenuff]

Mine aren't on a common plate, they are 3 individual "quarter" size sensors that mount directly in the tank. My question was more about prying them out and reseating them. The violent shaking up and down sounds like it would break them lose. The rep mentioned vinegar for cleaning. I was thinking of soaking them in Dawn.

 

[KP49]

Mine were the individual type with the white grommets holding them in, along with some of glue/sealant for fun. My 'full' didnt work and I stopped short of wrecking the rubber trying to get it out. I filled the tank with water and drove around for a couple days and it started working again. I have had several of that type out over the years when they werent glued in, its just a magnet on a float, when it reaches the reed switch in the tube it closes the contact. Doesnt take much to stick the float, once you get it out its easy to figure out why its not working and how to clean it.

 

[JimFromMD]

I have a 2005 390DA and the 1/2 sensor apparently doesn't indicate. I called the manufacturer and I was told that the individual sensors can be removed. How should I remove them, clean them and reinstall them. Thanks!

Try noflex digestor... That product freed up the empty sensor in my tank. Didnt know there are three separate sensors, so not sure if the other two are working... but hopefully if the 1/2 and full are stuck... it'll clear them too!.

 

[Robski97]

Guys ,
I put two packets of cascade( gel tabs ) down the deck fill after I pump out . Tanks has never been cleaner.

Rob

 

[connie garcy]

I did that this spring in my 1998 370. Don't know if yours is the same, but i can tell you what i did. There are three float type sensors (MT, 1/2, full) that consist of a float that rides up and down on a rod. The float and/or rod accumulate gunk and the sensor no longer moves. All sensors are mounted on a common plate that is easily removed from top of holding tank (unscrewed). Unscrew the sensor mounting plate and pull that out and clean all the sensors and rods. I used a 50/50 solution of white vinegar along with a toothbrush to remove the worst stuff. The vinegar dissolves calcium build up. CLR would probably work too.

Just be careful with wire connections as the wires are pretty thin (20 or 22 gauge). The whole thing could be unscrewed without having to disconnect the wires, providing i cut all the wire ties securing the extra wire (gives you slack).

While in there i cleaned the tank too, and had to replace one of the float retaining lock washers (at end of rod) that was missing.

Good luck

JohnG

Thanks for the info John. We have a 99, does your cap have a hose attached to it? If so did you have to remove it to get that cap off? This is a job we are going to do this weekend.

 

[JimmyDubai]

Guys ,
I put two packets of cascade( gel tabs ) down the deck fill after I pump out . Tanks has never been cleaner.

Rob

I will have to try this as well (I tried to identify the level by rubbing a torch against the tank wall at night but it is not very clear). I think the sensor is stuck as well.

 

[almostenuff]

I will have to try this as well (I tried to identify the level by rubbing a torch against the tank wall at night but it is not very clear). I think the sensor is stuck as well.

I sure hope torch means flashlight over in Dubai

 

[JimmyDubai]

I sure hope torch means flashlight over in Dubai

Yea!!! Not only in Dubai but also in Google :smt038