[mtlakejim]

Ok folks, I work in the oilfield and now knowing the full details of the plumbing system I understand that the only purpose for the check valve is to keep the pump from sucking air when your under normal operation.


I can offer a simple solution: Eliminate the check valve and screw a simple valve ($2.00) like they sell to go on the end of a water hose onto the winterizing connection (perhaps using a 45 or 90degree water hose fitting--also handy for your normal water supply hose connection fyi). Leave the valve closed until you want to winterize. When you want to winterize just attach a short hose and open the valve problem solved......