Water System Pump Gives Up! Replacement?

[Bob4203]

On my 1988 Mark II, we discovered that the water pump for our fresh water system would not turn off! The pump is the Shurflo diaphragm unit manufactured in 1987. I added a pneumatic pressure tank to the system last year. After checking all connections and fittings for a leak and topping off the tanks, I concluded that the pressure switch failed and replacing it on a 22-year old pump may not be worth it. For now, we have to use the panel switch to turn it on and off. Its time for a replacement.

After searching the catalogs, it seems that Shurflo and PAR dominate the 12-volt water pump world with varying improvements over the older unit in my boat. I am seeking recommendations from Catalina 30 owners who have replaced failed units with what is the best pump for the two faucet system. I have considered stepping for greater GPM or PSI for optimal pressure, especially for the shower head. I just do want to spend a small fortune!

Any suggestions?

Thanks

Bob
Breezin II
Georgia

 

[Stu Jackson]

Getting close to the same issue

with our 12 year old pump. We have the Shurflo. Don't oversize the pump. It is RARE that you ever use the shower and the galley sink at the same time. Oversizing is worse than undersizing.

Your choices are now limited since Shurflo stopped the production of the 2.8 GPM -- Model # 2088-423-344, which is what we have and seemed to be standard for most production models from Catalina in the mid 80s.

What I am planning is to buy one of the newer Shurflos with the variable speed to reduce or eliminate the pump running on and off. These newer pumps avoid the need for an accumulator tank. I haven't chosen a model yet.

Find the one with the right GPM. The replacement pumps seem to have the same footprint and sized connections and positions.

 

[Bob4203]

Thanks Stu. I was wondering if anyone was ever going to chime in on this one. The Shurflo "extreme series" comes in 4.0 gpm to 5.7 gpm units. The x-fittings are optional. I hate when that happens! Just what would happen if we left the accumulator in line with this pump? The prices run the gamut on these units and shopping the part catalogs pays here. We will probably get the 4.0 gpm unit (12v/9 amps/50 psi), which should be ample for our needs.

Appreciate the feedback.

Bob
Breezin II

 

[Stu Jackson]

Leaving the accumulator

can't hurt, all it is a big water/air bag, and the pump will simply consider the system pressure anyway.

The Extreme series has the smallest at 4 gpm, 9A for $189.99 in the 2008 WM catalog. The X fittings are one way to connect, but it comes with 1/2 inch barbs, too, which should make it easier.

I think it's overkill.

There is also the Aqua King series with 2 gpm for $94.99 or 3 gpm for $119.99, both with 1/2" male NPS connections.

I'd be tempted to go with the 3 gpm as more of a "direct replacement" because with your accumulator you really don't need the sophistication of the Extreme series.

Just tryin' to save ya boat bucks.

 

[rpell1@msn.com]

Just did that...........

I just replaced the pressure switch on my Jabsco quad4 pump. It cost me about $40 and 20 minutes...as opposed to the $150 for a new pump, plus the installation time. My pump is the original 1991 model and I'm still too cheap to spend the money to replace it. (PS)..It now works find.

Good Luck

On my 1988 Mark II, we discovered that the water pump for our fresh water system would not turn off! The pump is the Shurflo diaphragm unit manufactured in 1987. I added a pneumatic pressure tank to the system last year. After checking all connections and fittings for a leak and topping off the tanks, I concluded that the pressure switch failed and replacing it on a 22-year old pump may not be worth it. For now, we have to use the panel switch to turn it on and off. Its time for a replacement.

After searching the catalogs, it seems that Shurflo and PAR dominate the 12-volt water pump world with varying improvements over the older unit in my boat. I am seeking recommendations from Catalina 30 owners who have replaced failed units with what is the best pump for the two faucet system. I have considered stepping for greater GPM or PSI for optimal pressure, especially for the shower head. I just do want to spend a small fortune!

Any suggestions?

Thanks

Bob
Breezin II
Georgia

 

[Bob4203]

Well I already ordered the pump! Defender has it for $149.95 which is a stretch from the WM price. Several RV supply vendors also had the same pump, but Defender beat them all in price. As for an accumulator, the Shurflo pump requires one. So, I am off and running and we'll see what that extra GPM and pressure will have on the system.

Bob