Rocket hand pump and 12v water pump?

I might not understand your problem? But why not use a backflow valve?

On my Mallard, I have the "on demand" 12V pump and the "City" water inlet connected together, with two back flow valves. I do like to hard wire a manual "on/off" switch near the sink, so you can manually turn the water pump off during highway travel. This system supplies water to my sink "cold", my sink "hot" through an in-line heater, and my toilet flush.

I also have the original hand pump, for three different water sources at the sink, although only two show.

These valves are available from VTS.

The advantage of using the backflow valves, is that you do not "have to remember" to turn valves on or off, so it's a fool proof system.

Wow...thanks guys!!! Ya'll hit it out of the park...again.

Vikx...I hadn't considered that kind of setup and it allows me to keep the existing fixtures. ..and here I thought the plumbing was going to be a quick job  .

While we're on the subject...are you aware of any plastic original equipment water tanks from the '60s that are not OK to use or that might leach nastys into the water?  I have a 15 gallon original tank that is kind of greenish, soft plastic.  I know plastics have come a long way in 45 years, but I'd rather not purchase a new tank.

Thanks!!!! 

Feb 18, 2015 8:14:07 GMT -8 mandoman said:

Do you carry an additional water tank for drinking when dry camping?....which is most of what I do. If so what material is it?
My professional background is in water quality and I had concerns about the old soft tank leaching metals and organics, but I can't see a new tank being much different than a Nalgene water bottle as long as it's sanitized and flushed. Usually harder plastics are more resistant to leaching and have fewer nooks and crannies for things to grow in. I'm not sure what grade of plastic the newer tanks are made of, though.
Thoughts?

Cut any old tank apart, and you will never want to drink anything again, from a RV tank, they are gross! just my opinion.

It might not be very "green", but we buy a four one gallon water bottles at the 99 cent store for making coffee, or drinking if not connected to shore water. The trailer's "on board" water system is used for washing, and flushing the toilet only.

Thanks Chametzoo...

I like the idea, but I'm not sure I have the room under the galley or on that side of the trailer for that matter, to add a removable drinking water option. It's a '69 Lo-Liner.

You guys have obviously never seen (or smelled) my Nalgene water bottles .

It probably does come down to personal preference for taste and odor.  I get more nervous about metals and bacteria.

If you're ever interested in knowing how funky your tank is or isn't, most private water chemistry labs (you can find them in the phonebook) can run a standard analysis for drinking water including bacteria.  They'll usually send you the correct sample bottles.

I'll probably use the old tank for now with Vikx's fancy T option for the city faucet.

Thanks for everyone for your help!!!