Cleaning a SM250 Skimmer Pump

[JFish180]

My SM250 skimmer has been running great, but when I took appart the pump for cleaning I see that the backside bearing does not come off or move at all. Are there any suggestions for getting it off without breaking it? Also, should the shaft itself be able to move, or is it permanently attached to the magnet?

 

[Jeremy B.]

It sounds like the bearing locked up from calcium carbonate buildup of debris. It's recommend that the bearings are cleaned every couple of months. You can pull it off with some pliars, but it will need to be replaced.