would like advise

Ken · 11-05-2007, 11:45 AM

I have a 120gal reef with a 40 fuge the mag 18 I have been using for return is getting weak. I would like some ideas on the best pump to use submersible. I would perfer 2 pumps so if one stops I won't loose flow completely. I have limited space without re-doing something (4.5 in. X 7.5 in) foot print.
I would like to move at least 1300 to 1500gal/hr with one pump or about half with each of 2 pumps. The head height is 5 ft. I sure would like to hear pros and cons of some different pumps you guys have experience with.
Thanks,
Ken

framerguy · 11-05-2007, 11:54 AM

You say it's getting weak. Have you cleaned it lately? Once a month I remove my Mag9.5, turn it on it's side and submerge it in a vinegar/water solution for 30min-1hr and it works like new again. The calc will cause any pump to slow down with time. I'd try to clean it before investing in a new pump because you've got the industry standard there IMO.

AQTCJAK · 11-05-2007, 11:57 AM

I agree cleaning the pump can save you $

Ken · 11-05-2007, 11:57 AM

I cleaned it yesterday. It's been running for about 3 years now. I have been lax in cleaning it in the past though.

Witfull · 11-05-2007, 11:58 AM

ditto, clean it. you may have also broken a fin from the impeller. clean and repair if needed. mag drive pumps dont weaken. they (like any pump) suffer maintainence issues or stop completely.

Witfull · 11-05-2007, 11:59 AM

was the impeller scored? that is a wearable part.

framerguy · 11-05-2007, 12:01 PM

Most online warehouses sell impeller replacements, much cheaper than a new pump. Try marine depot or Drs. Foster & Smith.

Ken · 11-05-2007, 12:01 PM

I did not take it apart, I just ran it in vinagar and water for about 45 minutes

Witfull · 11-05-2007, 12:05 PM

take it apart and inspect the impeller for scratches/grooves or calcium buildup. vinigar will desolve build-up, but it may need a brushing to get it off. if its scored, it costs maybe 25$ to replace the whole impeller drive.

Ken · 11-05-2007, 12:09 PM

Hey thanks, that sounds like great advise. I will take it apart and inspect, probably tomorrow and let you know how it turned out. You guys probably saved me a bundle.
Thanks again,
$$$
ken

Witfull · 11-05-2007, 12:11 PM

enough for Premium Membership LOL

11-05-2007, 11:45 AM	#1 (permalink)
Ken Midas Blenny Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Hot Springs, Arkansas Posts: 94 View Gallery Karma Komment	would like advise I have a 120gal reef with a 40 fuge the mag 18 I have been using for return is getting weak. I would like some ideas on the best pump to use submersible. I would perfer 2 pumps so if one stops I won't loose flow completely. I have limited space without re-doing something (4.5 in. X 7.5 in) foot print. I would like to move at least 1300 to 1500gal/hr with one pump or about half with each of 2 pumps. The head height is 5 ft. I sure would like to hear pros and cons of some different pumps you guys have experience with. Thanks, Ken

11-05-2007, 11:54 AM	#2 (permalink)
framerguy Tridacna maxima Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Clarkesville, Ga Posts: 4,994 View Gallery Karma Komment Add yours!	Re: would like advise You say it's getting weak. Have you cleaned it lately? Once a month I remove my Mag9.5, turn it on it's side and submerge it in a vinegar/water solution for 30min-1hr and it works like new again. The calc will cause any pump to slow down with time. I'd try to clean it before investing in a new pump because you've got the industry standard there IMO. __________________ ___________________________________ Greg All time fav quote: "Now and then it's good to pause in our pursuit of happiness and just be happy."-Guillaume Apollinaire "Being happy can be as easy as deciding to be!"-Greg Kimsey (framerguy) 375gDT built in wall, 100g sump, Sequence Hammerhead closed loop, DIY light system w/4x 250MH & 4x54w T5, Aqua C EV-400 skimmer etc, etc, etc... http://www.reefsanctuary.com/forums/...areum-too.html

11-05-2007, 11:57 AM	#3 (permalink)
AQTCJAK Tiger Shark Join Date: Aug 2007 Posts: 7,267 View Gallery Karma Komment Add yours!	Re: would like advise I agree cleaning the pump can save you $ __________________ A Wiseman once said build a stage add a pole & they will dance - Jack 2007 www.aquaticaggression.com

11-05-2007, 11:57 AM	#4 (permalink)
Ken Midas Blenny Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Hot Springs, Arkansas Posts: 94 View Gallery Karma Komment	Re: would like advise I cleaned it yesterday. It's been running for about 3 years now. I have been lax in cleaning it in the past though.

11-05-2007, 12:01 PM	#7 (permalink)
framerguy Tridacna maxima Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Clarkesville, Ga Posts: 4,994 View Gallery Karma Komment Add yours!	Re: would like advise Most online warehouses sell impeller replacements, much cheaper than a new pump. Try marine depot or Drs. Foster & Smith. __________________ ___________________________________ Greg All time fav quote: "Now and then it's good to pause in our pursuit of happiness and just be happy."-Guillaume Apollinaire "Being happy can be as easy as deciding to be!"-Greg Kimsey (framerguy) 375gDT built in wall, 100g sump, Sequence Hammerhead closed loop, DIY light system w/4x 250MH & 4x54w T5, Aqua C EV-400 skimmer etc, etc, etc... http://www.reefsanctuary.com/forums/...areum-too.html

11-05-2007, 12:01 PM	#8 (permalink)
Ken Midas Blenny Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Hot Springs, Arkansas Posts: 94 View Gallery Karma Komment	Re: would like advise I did not take it apart, I just ran it in vinagar and water for about 45 minutes

11-05-2007, 12:09 PM	#10 (permalink)
Ken Midas Blenny Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Hot Springs, Arkansas Posts: 94 View Gallery Karma Komment	Re: would like advise Hey thanks, that sounds like great advise. I will take it apart and inspect, probably tomorrow and let you know how it turned out. You guys probably saved me a bundle. Thanks again, $$$ ken

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