Reply To: Ex Air ministry Alcon Pumps

[sidevalve5]

Did look at two stage as the optimum pressure required for the Hunter rotators was 40 psi. But had to factor in cost of the pump, cost of the extra fuel to obtain that pressure, the pressure exerted on the existing pipework and connections, would still have the slime problem blocking the filter. Can get second hand single stage petrol pumps for £30-£40, there is loads available, it’s just a matter a choosing the best one. When using hoses, especially layflat pipes, leaks at high pressures is an issue. The amount of slime I got, meant I had to clean the filter after just a couple of hours irrigation, which was a pain.

Went to a sale at a nursery a few years ago and they could not sell a couple of two stage vertical electric two stage irrigation pumps. I was tempted to put my hand up, could have got them both for a fiver, as I had an idea of doing similar to yourself. After the experience gained from fixing the petrol pumps, knew I could repair the pumps if they did not work by fitting a new seal. Could take the electric motor off and put a V belt drive from a petrol engine, gearing as required. What put me off was I also knew it would be much heavier than a portable pump. When irrigating, I transport the pump to the well in my van, when finished, take it away again, putting it back into store. Unfortunately anything that a man can lift, if not securely fixed or hidden away and might have some value, even just for scrap, gets nicked around here.

For me, a sprayline was the way to go. Had pumps in the shed I could use, low output requirements supposed the input (fuel) reduced too, lower pressure meant there are hardly any leaks, the larger nozzles do not block with slime, so could remove the filter. Additionally I like to see and use traditional market gardening equipment. I enjoy bringing what most view as scrap back into a good (near new if I can) working condition and then using it as it was intended. As stated, it’s horses for courses, high pressures and flow rates require the correct equipment. For me it’s a pump I can take out the back of my van each time, pump at 7GPM to only 12-15psi. A small lightweight single stage petrol pump delivering a modest head is ideal.