Pumping problem

Well, I finally broke down and bought a vacuum pump a few weeks ago. I went with a Dr. Kaplan model and it seems to be built fairly well….except for one thing. I don’t seem to get a sealed connection between the hose of the pump and the connector on the cylinder. It seems like the two don’t fit well together. Of course, getting the company to replace anything is impossible (you can’t even talk to anyone), so I am looking for a little advice on what I need and where to get it. Can anyone help?

a total mismatch, or is air simply not staying within the tube or connector? if there is still room when you connect try placing some very thin tape around the connector.

rolo

Not a total mismatch, but there is definitely a leak between the two connectors (the one at the end of the hose and the one on the top of the cylinder). So much so that I can’t seem to pump fast enough before the air leaks in, ruining the pressure build up. I will try some tape and see what happens, but I would like to have a more permanent solution i.e. new connector. Thanks rolo.

johhnyp

I would think teflon pipe thread tape would solve this dilema in a jiffy as well as be a permanent solution.

Hi!

I am using a kaplan cylinder as well and I cannot really understand your problem. The valve at the top of the cylinder doesnt let any air in at all after it was pumped out. I can pump some air out and disconnect the tube from the cylinder and the vacuum will remain.
So if you are loosing vacuum it cannot be the seal between the valve and the tubing but it must be an issue of seal at the cylinder opening.

Cu
Darian

If you are losing air vacumn try putting the connection in soapy water while you are using it and you will find bubbles where the air leak is

Check out Article B04

The Bagman’s Troubleshooter:
Finding and fixing pumping system leaks!

The Bagman’s Troubleshooter

Sometimes the little O Rings become dry, thin and worn. Basically not enough friction to seal properly.

The assorted O ring kits from a local HF tool store had that O ring size. Now its fine. Carefully remove the little O ring without damaging the plastic. If that is the source of the leak.

Once you find the correct size O-ring, make note of it. There are some vendors on eBay who sell five or ten packs of nitrile or silicone O-rings for a couple bucks, shipping included.

Also trimming and shaving excess hair helps create a better seal. I carefully dry shave using a 5 blade safety razor.

You are responding to a guy that hasn’t been active for over 17 years. Make sure to check the dates of the threads you are responding to.