Troubleshooting

Potential causes to check and resolve:

  • Inadequate level of oil, or no oil in the pump.
  • RPM in excess of recommended levels.
  • Continued operation above recommended maximum vacuum and pressure levels.
  • Blocked Inlet Filter.
  • Pump is covered in mud and/or dirt.
  • Plumbing diameter is of an insufficient size.
  • Blockage in exhaust.

Potential causes to check and resolve:

  • Damaged vane(s).
  • Damaged bearing(s).
  • Issue with the drive system.
  • Ice frozen inside the pump.

Potential causes to check and resolve:

  • Four-way valve is in the neutral position.
  • Worn vanes.
  • Worn shaft seals.
  • Leaks in the tank or pipework.
  • Plumbing diameter is of an insufficient size.
  • Non-return valve is blocked and does not open fully.
  • Blocked Inlet Filter.
  • RPM rate below recommended level.
  • Collapsed hose in the system setup.
  • Blockage in exhaust.

Is the pump spinning?

If yes, check the placement of the gauge. It should be placed between the scrubber and the pump.

  • If it is between the scrubber and the pump and it’s still reading 0, it’s most likely a faulty gauge and you need to purchase a new one. Head to our Online Store to purchase a new Vacuum Gauge.
  • If the gauge is not between the scrubber and the pump, bleed the system off, open scrubber drain (be sure it’s clear and not blocked), put the pump valve handle in neutral and ensure there’s not vacuum on the tank, then move the gauge to be between the scrubber and pump.

If the pump is not spinning, refer to ‘Why is my Pump not Spinning‘ below.

Check the placement of the gauge. It should be between the scrubber and the pump.

If it is between the scrubber and the pump and it’s still reading 0, check and drain the scrubber. If nothing comes out, check for blockages.

Ensure the noise is coming from the pump and not the drive system.

  • If you get closer to the frame rail and the sound gets louder, it’s the drive system.
  • If you stand in front of the pump and it’s louder closer to the pump, it may be the pump.

If you hear a clicking or rattling sound:

  • Flush the pump. Refer to the ‘How to Flush My Pump’ video.
  • If you still hear it after flushing, open up the pump and inspect the pump for:
    1. A broken vane. If broken, you will need new vanes.
    2. Swollen vanes. If the vanes are swollen, you will need new vanes.

Head to the Online Store linked below to purchase new vanes for your pump.

The following may help:

  • Check the drive coupler to make sure the pump shaft is spinning.
  • If the drive shaft is spinning, check the couplers and gearbox to verify any breakage or shearing and that the gearbox shaft is spinning.
  • Keyways could also be sheared.

Check the drains to verify nothing is blocking the drains.

If nothing drains, contact us for further assistance.

Have your PTO inspected by a certified technician.

Find a local certified technician.

The Check Valve has failed in the pump.

Head to our Online Store to purchase a new Check Valve for your specific pump.

Each Masport Engine Drive unit is set up to operate at full throttle.

Refer to the manual that comes with your system. To find your system’s pump manual, go to the Identify My Pump page linked below.

The following may help:

  • Your hose needs to be submerged when you open the valve. Otherwise, your tank will lose vacuum.
  • If your hose is submerged, you could have a faulty hose.

Determine PTO Rotation

Please refer to the ‘Determining PTO Rotation‘ document linked below.

Video Support + Manual

Refer to our ‘Video Support‘ section, as well as your pump’s Owner/Operator manual.

  • To find your pump manual, go to the Identify My Pump page linked below.

For troubleshooting the next steps, you need to determine which Oil Pump brand you have:

Mikuni – ‘Mikuni’ will be on the oil pump and is typically used on the HXL75-HXL400 Series Discontinued Pumps:

  • Is your pump running at the correct RPM? Refer to your pump manual.
  • Are you using the correct vacuum pump oil? Refer to your pump manual.
  • Is your Vacuum Relief Valve at the correct setting? Refer to your pump manual.
  • Does your Oil Separator need to be cleaned?
    • Open the ball valve to drain and clear any debris blocking the valve.
    • Proceed with flushing your vacuum pump system. For instructions on how to flush your vacuum pump, watch the following video: How to Flush Your Masport Pump
  • Your Oil Pump may need to be replaced.

Beka – used with the HD4, HD75, HD400, Viper, Titan, Sidewinder, and Cobra pumps:

  • Is your pump running at the correct RPM? Refer to your pump manual.
  • Are you using the correct vacuum pump oil? Refer to your pump manual.
  • Is your Vacuum Relief Valve at the correct setting? Refer to your pump manual.

As the oil pump gets older, there may be some wear and tear on the internal gears. Here are a few things to check to ensure your oil pump is not overworking:

Mikuni Oil Pumps (HXL2 – HXL400) & Beka Oil Pumps (HD4 – Cobra)

  • Check that your pump is running at the correct RPM.
    • Refer to your pump’s manual to verify RPM
  • Ensure you’re using the correct vacuum pump oil.
  • Ensure your vacuum relief valve is at the correct setting.
  • Does your Oil Separator need to be cleaned?
    • If not cleaned out regularly, this could cause excess stress and heat on the vacuum pump and oil pump.
  • If you have checked all of the above, you may need to replace your oil pump.

The following may help:

  • Check the oil reservoir and make sure the line is clear.
  • Check the oil line filter isn’t plugged.
  • Make sure the vacuum pump is spinning in the correct rotation.
  • Disconnect the oil feed line from reservoir to ensure you get good flow.
  • Check Oil Pump:
    • Make sure the vacuum pump is spinning in the correct rotation.
    • If it is you need a new oil pump.

Refer to ‘My pump is not using any oil.’

Seen above.

Refer to your pump’s operator manual.

To find your pump manual, go to the Identify My Pump page linked below.

Adjust Accordingly

Vacuum should be adjusted to the specifications of the pump you’re operating. Refer to owner manual for your pump model.

To find your pump manual, go to the Identify My Pump page linked below.

Refer to owner manual for your pump model.

To find your pump manual, go to the Identify My Pump page linked below.

Yes, please refer to the ‘Maintenance and Important Operating Tips’ which can be found in your pump’s manual.

To find your pump manual, go to the Identify My Pump page linked below.

You may also reference the FAQ page Pump Questions linked below.

The following could help:

  • A 5-weight non-detergent oil with a pour test
  • ISO 15-weight non-detergent oil

Important:

You need to leave your truck running when operating the system.

The following checklist may help:

  • Check that the pump is engaged and in vacuum mode.
  • Check that the ball valve on the flushing kit is open and not clogged. If you turn the ball valve too far in either direction, it will close the ball valve.
  • Check for any blockages in the hose from the flushing reservoir to the pump.

Get Help

Have a quick question or need assistance troubleshooting on your pump? Our Help & Support resources are great for independent pumpers on the go.

Contact Sales

We’re not that kind of sales team. Get in touch and tell us what you’re looking for. We’ll give you options and get you back to work quickly with the best products on the market.

Contact Support

Not finding what you need?  Reach out to our Customer Support team for quick, effective solutions and get you back to your day.

Stay in
the know!

To receive updates on our products and services, join our Masport newsletter.