Flojet sucking air

G'day Mick
I've actually removed the damn thing and ran it from a bucket using only the attached inlet and outlet hoses. That's why I know it isn't any of the other bits leading up to the pump that are the problem.
But I didn't think to teflon tape the hose that goes directly into the pump - the O ring looked fine so I assumed it wasn't the problem. I'll try that.
Cheers from the Moose

G'day Trevor
Yes it is BUT it has worked perfectly for the past umpteen years and O ring looks perfect. I'm going to give Mick's idea a go - that will at least confirm absolutely whether it is the pump.
Cheers from the Moose

Hi Moose I had the exact same experience and solution as Trevor.My 0 ring was intact but was worn. Good luck, Graham.

I have mine set-up with click-on fittings on the bullbar for the inlet and outlet hoses to attach. These are notorious for not sealing properly on the inlet side......those click on connections (standard garden hose type) aren't meant to be used for suction....

So, what I did was to add a rubber bulb (as used on an outboard motor for pumping fuel) to the end of the inlet hose (where it sits in the supply bucket of water). When I fire-up the shower, I can just give the bulb a couple of squeezes to prime the hoses and get the thing pumping. After that, she runs fine all by itself.

G'day Willem
Even if it is the pump I should just be able to replace the diaphragm and that should then fix it. The Flojets are bloody good pumps - certainly not a disposable item. The cost a few hundred $ so they should last for ages.
Mind you the damn parts will probably cost an arm and a leg!
Cheers from the Moose