Pump not pumping to capacity

[A.VOID]

My mag 5 is acting flaky.

The impeller still seems OK. I've replaced that before, so I know it's not bad yet.
I soaked the pump and impeller in vinegar last night and tried to clean it out some. The deposits weren't coming off very well internally so it's still kind of crusty inside.

The pump is not putting out enough volume. It's maybe 50%. Tank is getting cloudy, etc.

Any thoughts?

replace with a clean impeller?
Pump is shot (over a year old, but come on?)
Better cleaning solution?

 

[sjm817]

It needs to be clean. How about running the pump in a bucket with a strong vinegar mix?

 

[A.VOID]

How long do you think to let it run in the bucket?

I let it sit for like 2 hours and I didn't have much success. I don't have a backup for this thing, so I can't take it out for too long.

 

[EverettReef]

Have you tried using a toothbrush or bottle brush?

 

[BrassMonkey]

break out the big guns. grab some pool acid. i put like 2 gallons of water in and add the acid till i see it start foaming. should be spotless in like 2 minutes.

 

[A.VOID]

Used a hose brush on it, yes.
What the heck is pool acid?

 

[sjm817]

You can use muriatic acid which you can get at Home Depot. I have never used it but always see people say to use caution. Use in a well ventilated area and follow mixing directions.

Google search:

Directions for working with Muriatic Acid:
Wear protective clothing, rubber gloves and plastic safety glasses while using. To etch or clean concrete and masonry or metal:
Dilute to desired strength by adding acid carefully to water, avoid splashing.
Start with a highly diluted mixture and strengthen gradually (1 part acid to 20 parts water).
Apply solution. Bubbling indicates solution is strong enough.
Flush thoroughly with clean water and immediately after cleaning or etching is complete.