Need Replacement pump for skimmer...which one should I get?

[ElCheapo]

I have a skimmer similar to this one: http://www.acryliccity.com/skimmers_acs418.html

It has a 1/2 kent venturi and I was using a Little Giant 2MD to power it. Today the Little Giant kicked the bucket.

Now for my question, could I replace the exertnal pump and injector with a needle wheel pump? And if so, would I notice an improvement in performance (I assume yes)?

How big of a pump should I get? There is a local guy selling a used Euroreef SP4 pump, but I assume this is way to big.

 

[Ti]

go IWAKI, awesome pumps

 

[ElCheapo]

Thanks for the response. I agree, they are awsome pumps.

But my question is: could I use a needle wheel pump instead of the Kent injector, and what size needle wheel pump would I need?

 

[powdertang05]

ive had great luck with the pacific coast imports pumps just as good in my mind and cheaper.

 

[BLockamon]

Is the venturi external to the box or internal? If is't external, then just remove it and hook up one of the following pumps: Gen-X 6000 w/ needlewheel, Sedra 9000 w/ needlewheel, or Ocean Runner 3700.

The Sedra and Gen-X both come with an air induction (venturi) fitting. The Ocen Runner does not, so you will have to get that separately.

 

[ElCheapo]

The venturi is external. Should be an easy swap. That is good.

I am surprised by the size of the pumps you mention. The GenX 6000 pumps 1587 gph. That seems kinda huge for a skimmer this size. Most people use a Mag 7 or mag 9.5 on it with the kent injector. That probably cuts the flow in half?

I may get this one. I notice the impeller seems different (better?) from the other Gen X needle wheel pumps I have seen.

http://www.reefsolution.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=22_235&products_id=1162

 

[BLockamon]

I don't think that the needlewheel pictured is the one that comes with the Gen-X pumps. That's the Sedra needlewheel (or the custom one from Euro-Reef). You might want to check before you buy (they are also priced high unless they really give you a needlewheel other than the stock one). The standard Gen-X 4100 with needlewheel and induction fitting should run ~$52. Check Custom Aquatic or www.reeftanksupply.com

 

[ElCheapo]

I forgot to mention that this is a Canadian supplier. I notice that certain things are more expensive in Canada. Pumps are one of those things. Duty and brokerage fees usually make ordering from the US counter productive.

I will contact the store and verify which pump and impeller I would be getting.


Thank you everyone that has given input. It is greatly appreciated.