CSV3 maintenance

[ntarr]

I noticed reduced flow on my 10 HP pump and found I was only receiving 25 GPM instead of the expected 65 at relatively low pressure.  I had the pump tested and cleaned out all internal components (flow meter, check valve, CSV) and then re-adjusted the cycle stop.   I was able to set flow at 7.5 gpm at my desired shut off (105) but only after completely bottoming out the stem.    I have never performed maintenance on this unit.   Is there a recommended maintenance or clean out process, or just disassemble and flush?

[Cary Austin]

There is a 1/4" black plug on the inlet or pump side of the CSV.  If you put a pressure gauge in this port, you can tell if the CSV or the pump is the problem.  You should not have to tighten that adjustment bolt that far.  Something is not right.  Either your pump isn't producing as much as it should or the CSV is not opening up, and the pressure gauge will let you know which it is.  You can call me and I will talk you through it if you like.
Thanks
Cary
800-652-0207

[ntarr]

I will try that, but I suspect the valve.  Tested the pump and was getting 100 with no head other than lift.   That is what I got at installation.   Should I just dis-assemble and clean everything?

[Cary Austin]

If you disassembled the CSV, maybe you got the flexible hoses swapped.  The hose with the red painted fitting needs to go to the pump side of the CSV.  The hose without the red fitting goes to the top of the big red valve.  If the red painted fitting is on the wrong line, the valve will try to stay closed.  The red painted fitting is labeled "B" on the diagram at this link.
http://www.cyclestopvalves.com/prod_csv3b2ta_parts.html

[ntarr]

I looked at the valve, and the only plug I see is on the top cover nearer to the outlet side.  This is about 10 years old.

[ntarr]

We only opened the cover and rinsed off diaphragm.  I was just looking to see if I should and just flush everything.   My water is pretty hard with some sediment.

[Cary Austin]

With a 10 year old valve, you could still have a pilot on the side with a PC20 number on it.  That pilot could be the problem if you have high pressure before the CSV and low pressure after the CSV.