Weak vacuum suction creates a poor experience for customers at your wash. Whether your vacuums are complimentary for your customers or you charge for service, you want people to leave satisfied with the service they receive. A worn gasket can reduce suction power by allowing air to escape since it no longer creates a perfect seal. Phil will teach you how to replace a gasket on your vacuum.
Signs of Worn Vacuum Door Gaskets
Although worn vacuum door gaskets cause weak suction, they are not the only or main culprit. First, you’ll want to ensure the vacuum motors function properly, the filter bags are not overfilled, and the hoses are not clogged. Then, it’s more likely the gasket is the cause of suction loss.
But what are the signs of a worn gasket?
The first is suction loss, which we already know about since it’s why we check those other causes first. The other signs are easy to check by opening the vacuum doors. Before you do, check if the compression latches are tight. If they are easy to open, this is the first indicator your gasket is worn. Once the door is open, check for deterioration and thinning of the gasket material. If you notice one or both of these signs, replace the gasket because air will leak, weakening vacuum suction.
Step 1: Removing the Vacuum Door Gasket
Use a gasket scraper to start peeling off the gasket from a corner. You can also use a razor blade scraper. Take your time and peel slowly to make the process easier. Gaskets may rip as you peel them away. Use the scraper to remove any pieces that break off. The bottom door gaskets are always more difficult to remove than the top ones.
Step 2: Preparing the Surface
Extra gasket material and adhesive residue on the vacuum door will make it difficult to stick on a new vacuum door gasket. Attach a brass bristle brush to a drill or impact driver, and use it to clean up the door’s surface. Now, the surface is ready to accept a new gasket.
Step 3: Installing the New Gasket
We used gasket 8159, the OEM replacement vacuum door gasket for our JE Adams vacuums at the car wash. To install it, first peel off the backing. Then, line the edge of the gasket up with the piano hinge. The gasket will begin to stick, but don’t press it down yet, as you might need to move it. Jump over to the other side of the gasket and align it with the line from the original. When you are happy with the location, stick the gasket in place.
Now that you have a new gasket installed, the vacuum suction should be strong again. Your customers will be pleased with the service they receive and will return to your car wash because you keep up with maintenance and they can rely on your equipment to produce great results!
