Ack! Bad pump?

[MrMikeB]

Hey all,

I am hoping you can help me. My 150 system runs an external Iwaki pump that has worked flawlessly since I got the system (used). This morning I noticed it emitting a 'rough' sound in addition to its normal humming I am used to hearing. The pump is still, well, pumping, but given its my return I want to be as proactive as I can. I have not noticed a decrease in flow. Any ideas?

I can probably try to record the sound and post it if that would help.

 

[Unarce]

Yikes! Could be something with the bearings. I've never used Iwaki before, but when I heard a funny sound with my old Dart, MDM's customer service was able to diagnose it over the phone.

Hopefully, Iwaki can do the same:

Iwaki Customer Service 508-429-1440

HTH

Karl

 

[MrMikeB]

Thanks Karl,

Called them up and talked to a guy named Jason. They basically said for me to take apart the impeller housing and see if something got stuck in there. If not, then send it back to them in Mass., and they will repair it and send it back to me in a week.

I wonder how much die off would happen in a week of no circulation... I will try my hand at taking it apart and see if a snail got stuck in there or something. Lets just hope I can put it back together.

 

[Unarce]

I have a backup Dart, in case mine ever dies. However, when my first one was making the noise, I let it run while MDM was sending me a replacement. They let me send back the bad one afterwards.

I'd rank them up there with OceansMotions, when it comes to customer service:thumbsup:

 

[MrMikeB]

Ok, so I figured out the problem. I took the pump apart (well at least the water inlet) - low and behold 2 ceriths had gotten sucked up in the propeller chamber. Freakin' snails!

I also put on a snail guard the inlet tube, however these little guys are a bit small and might fit right in through the slits.

 

[matttaylor]

MIKE, go to bed once in a while. you've been posting at 1am, 3am in the morning, don't you sleep? I'm worried about your mental/physical health. Get some sleep brother.

Matt

 

[MrMikeB]

Ha! I actually work late in the evenings - able to concentrate better. One of the cool benefits of being self employed I suppose.