Abstract: A variable area flowmeter (10) for monitoring the rate of flow of a cooling and lubricating medium about a pump seal, having a transparent flow tube (27) through which the flow passes. An adjustable metering member (38) is mounted within the flow tube (27) and supports a spring biased float (46) which is movable back and forth along the length of the flow tube (27). A cleaning ring (52) is affixed to the closed end (50) of the float (46) and is in tight frictional contact with the inner wall (29) of the flow tube (27). The cleaning ring (52) scrapes the inner wall (29) of the flow tube (27) to remove any accumulated dirt and debris from the inner wall (29) of the flow tube (27).