Fluctuating Flowmeter (Rotameter)

It might help if you post what type of machine it's on. I've seen a whole lot of carpet cleaning equipment, but never heard of a Rota meter. Is it the same or similar to the dwyer meters? Is this like it?
http://www.grainger.com/Grainger/KE...Controls-_-5P332&ci_src=14110944&ci_sku=5P332
Normally when my meter isn't functioning correctly it has to do with the chemical pump needing attention, usually a new diaphragm. Does your machine use a chemical pump or some type of injector?

If you do not see any bubbles in the flow meter then your leak is somewhere down the line after the meter. Unfortunately this is not much help since the only things before the flow meter are the inlet tube with strainer filter and the lower end of the meter. Two things you need to do are inspect the lines and meter. Look for any signs of leakage. Collyflower buildup is a dead givaway for leaks. If you don't find any leaks this way then the next step would be to remove the solution strainer and insert an air hose. It is important that the air hose pressure be very low as this may crack parts if pressure is too high. Set your chemical selector to chemical possition. Then blow air through the inlet line and observe for any cracks or leaks in the system. This is how you check for leaks.

If you have a freshwater tank just put your detergent in the fresh tank when filling and be done with it.

I agree with everybody here. It is frustrating sometimes. The most common problem for me is the little ss inserts on the flowmeter always crack. They are very delicate. Not to boast but I am really good at making sure things are put together properly. I even went so far as ordering good amount of stock on those pesky inserts. I've had dealers tell me they rarely crack and I'm doing something wrong. Hogwash! I never listen to dealers or suppliers because they they often lie and say nobody else has these problems. That must be a famous line for people that sell products and do not want to recognise a problem. "Nobody else has this problem" I cant stand it when I hear those words because I know its a lie. Or when another supplier tells me that the cheap knockoff QD's made by Breco have frozen and thats why it broke. OK, if it froze then why did all of them beak at the machine in the middle of a job? Maybe because those Breco QD's are nothing but ABSOLUTE JUNK JUNK JUNK JUNK JUNK JUNK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

On a side note I like to have the ability to raise and lower my soap. I am for chemical pumps all the way. They may have their cons, but in my opinion the pros outweigh the cons. JMO

Another thing that could very well cause this issue is your Y-Strainer Check valve. I know for a fact that that alone can cause flow issues like what you are talking about. If its been a long time since you have replaced the body and guts, you will be surprised what a difference a new one makes.

Here is an article I wrote. http://www.truckmountforums.com/gen...taining-your-solution-outlet-check-valve.html

There you go. Mix your detergent half as strong and meter twice as much if that is what it takes.

Sometimes you just have to do what works.