Semi Trash Pump Northstar or Powerhorse?

FrogLick · Mar 28, 2009

I'm in need of a semi-trash pump in the 2"-3" intake/discharge range and Northern Tool has both the Northstar w/a Honda engine and the Powerhorse w/a "Powerhorse" engine. I've never heard of Powerhorse but the pump would be for occassional use and the price is certainly less. I'm leaning toward the Northstar despite the price difference because I know Honda is dependable (& maybe easier to start?) and parts would be easily available if needed. Anyone have experience with either of these?

EddieWalker · Mar 28, 2009

I found what I felt was the best deal for a 3 inch, semi trash pump on ebay. But the best deal on hoses was at Northern Tool. That was two and a half years ago, so I can't say if it's true anymore or not. If you do a search on my thread "Creating a Pond" you can find the information on it in there someplace.

If you were closer, I'd sell you mine and all it's hoses for a good price as mine is just taking up room now.

Good luck,
Eddie

chh · Mar 28, 2009

I've used this pump for several years.

Pacer Water Pump  8700 GPH, 148cc, 2in., Model# SEB2PLE3C | Clear Water | Northern Tool + Equipment

It is not listed as a semi trash but it has worked well. The only thing that has clogged it so far was a 2' long or so water mocassin that decided to check out the suction end when I didn't have the strainer on.

Of the two you listed I would go with the Honda engine over the other one if I intended to keep it very long.

wushaw · Mar 28, 2009

I have the 2" Northstar with honda engine, It is five years old and I use it every year for garden and some tree watering.

FrogLick · Mar 29, 2009

Eddie that "pond" project of yours was quite an undertaking and the thread is quite long, but I did manage to find the pump info. I have looked at some offerings on eBay and the prices are attractive but I'm a little hesitant to buy more unknown "brands" from unknown sources; some of them are actually offering the Northern Tool product at the same or higher price. I've not been able to locate a used pump for sale in my neck of the woods and you are a little far away from here or I would otherwise be interested in buying your used one.

I grew up in Port Arthur, went to LU in Beaumont, and worked a long time at NASA in Houston so I'm quite familiar with E. TX and the Tyler/Winona area around your place. We built a place on Toledo Bend and I have a friend who had a RV campground, motel, marina & store on Sam Rayburn until a couple of years ago. I've got several impoundments on my place; here's the main spring fed, 32' deep one:

EddieWalker · Mar 29, 2009

Is that where you live? WOW, that's nice!!!!!

I'm not from here, but have an idea where all those places are. Seems like you know the area, especially mentioning Winona. That town is so small it only has one gas station and cafe. There is no other place to buy anything there. LOL

Eddie

FrogLick · Mar 29, 2009

The place in the picture is near the middle of 58 acres so it's nice and private. It's a weekend get away place not far (45 minutes) from our main residence, but seems like I do a lot more work out there - and enjoy it a lot more too!

I thought from your profile and pond posting that your place was near Winona.