Hot Tub Forum
Original => Hot Tub Forum => Topic started by: bub b on August 03, 2006, 04:24:41 pm
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I have a 2001 sundance optima and notice some white stuff around the one pump seal.
It looks like at one time it was leaking but I check it out with the pump on and found it to be dry and no signs of a leak now.
How hard is it to replace the seal or should I just replace the pump housing?
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The seal is very easy to replace with the right tools. I wouldn't bother replacing the whole pump housing.
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The white stuff may just be remnants of Teflon tape. Pump seals typically only require a screwdriver and some elbow-grease.
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There should be no teflon tape on the pump.
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If it's not leaking, leave it alone.
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Get the seal replaced before you end buying a motor. Make sure to get a seal that has Viton in it also, it will last much longer.
Seals are not hard to change but the face of them need to be 100% clean before you screw the impeller back on.
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Replace it only if it is leaking.
The funny thing is, it might be leaking but you can't see it. The shaft can spin the water away so fast that your eye can't see it. Put your finger right next to the seal while the pump is running. Get comfy - sit there for at least a full minute or more.
If your finger is even the slightest bit damp, you have a repair job ahead of you.
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The residue is the sign that water is coming out of the wet end of the pump at some time or another. The water will run back along the shaft into the front bearing of the motor. You may notice that the pump is a little louder than before. The damage to the bearings will eventually make the pump run hotter and send it to the scrap heap. Seals are inexpensive - repair it soon. Gary is right on about the Viton.
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Has your spa sat empty for awhile? I've seen pump seals leak after an empty period and quit leaking after the pump runs for a awhile.
If you feel moisture, change it, you'll be money ahead in the long run.