Waterous PB18 Series - User Manual

Other manuals for Waterous PB18 Series

Questions and Answers

Robert RiceAug 14, 2025

What to do if my Waterous PB18 has insufficient capacity?

W
Whitney JohnsonAug 15, 2025
If your Waterous Water Pump has insufficient capacity, the issue could stem from several causes. These include insufficient engine power (check the engine according to the manufacturer's instructions), worn pump impeller or wear rings (replace if clearance exceeds 0.020/0.025 in. or if impeller hubs are scored), a debris-fouled intake strainer or impeller vanes (remove debris and pressure backwash), a defective intake hose (replace if the inner liner is rough), an undersized intake hose (use a larger hose, especially at higher lifts or altitudes), or an excessively long intake hose (position the pump closer to the water supply).

tmillerOct 31, 2025

Why does my Waterous Water Pump fail to prime or lose prime?

D
David GardnerOct 31, 2025
Several factors can cause a Waterous Water Pump to fail to prime or lose prime. These include a closed priming line petcock (open it at the suction inlet), air leaks (clean and tighten intake connections, ensure hoses and gaskets are in good condition), trapped air (priming may be needed when pumping from a tank), a dirty intake strainer (remove debris), a defective primer (clean or replace components), low engine speed (advance throttle to 'FAST'), an open bypass line (clean, replace, or block off the check valve), excessive lift (reduce the vertical distance to the water source), insufficient submersion of the intake hose end (submerge at least two feet), a high point in the intake line (avoid this, or re-prime), or insufficient priming time (do not exceed 45 seconds for lifts up to 10 f...

Summary

Safety

Safety Precautions

Details essential safety precautions, including warnings about carbon monoxide, hot liquids, and high pressure.

Safety and Instructional Decals

Describes safety decals like Carbon Monoxide Warning and Hot Surface Warning.

Operation

Preparing for Operation

Guides on preparing the pump for operation, including checking connections and starter cord.

Starting the Engine

Provides instructions and safety notes for starting the pump's engine using ignition or manual cord.

Priming the Pump

Instructions on how to prime the pump, including engine start and throttle adjustments.

Operating the Pump

Explains how to operate the pump, adjusting discharge valve and throttle for performance.

Pumping from the Water Tank

Procedure for operating the pump when drawing water from a tank, including intake pressure checks.

Pumping from a Hydrant or Relay

Instructions for operating the pump connected to a hydrant or relay pumper, noting pressure limits.

Pumping from Draft

Guidance on operating the pump from a draft source, emphasizing intake setup and priming.

Maintenance

Maintenance Schedule

Outlines recommended maintenance tasks and their frequency (daily, monthly, 12 months).

Checking the Gear Case Oil Level

Procedure for checking the gear case oil level, ensuring the unit is level.

Adding the Gear Case Oil

Instructions for adding SAE 90 gear oil to the gear case, specifying quantity and fill level.

Draining the Gear Case Oil

Steps for draining the gear case oil, including proper disposal and cleaning of the drain plug.

Replacing the Spark Arrestor

Procedure for removing and replacing the spark arrestor, involving disassembly of the primer assembly.

Assembly

PB18 Assembly Overview

Illustrates the components involved in the PB18 assembly process.

PB18-G Assembly Overview

Illustrates the components involved in the PB18-G assembly process.

Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting Guide

Provides solutions for common pump issues like failure to prime, loss of prime, or insufficient capacity.

Waterous PB18 Series Specifications

General

Series	PB18
Pump Style	Single Stage
Inlet Size	6"
Material	Cast Iron
Priming Capability	Available