Roller Pumps

[TimberXX]

I would like to use a roller pump for light dewatering. I would use a strainer to keep the water going in as clean as possible. If needed I could wrap filter fabric around the strainer to ensure the water is clear.

I may use the pump 3 hours per year max, and can't see buying a gas pump or taking out a generator and electric pump.

Opinions?

 

[Bird]

I've not done that, but can't see why it wouldn't work. And that's definitely an "inexperienced" opinion,.:laughing:

 

[bigdeano]

I have a cast iron roller pump driven by a hyd motor with 2 55 gallon drums for fire suppression in an emergency. The problem with the roller pump is it will rust solid so it won't turn if left wet inside for a long time. I have to take the end off and dry it out when I put it away for the winter. Other than that it works fine.

 

[Bird]

I used to have one of the cast iron roller pumps powered by a 3 hp Briggs & Stratton with a 25 gallon tank, used mostly for spraying insecticide, and I finally solved that problem of it rusting and seizing by filling it with Prestone Anti-freeze after use. Then I'd just have to dump out the anti-freeze and rinse it out the next time I used it.

 

[bigdeano]

They make small bronze roller pumps to hook directly on a small engine shaft. Don't know if you already have an engine you could use.

 

[lilranch2001]

I refilled my sprayer with water in July thinking I was going to spray again later in the season. read this thread and reminded me "ohhh shiot"
So I trotted out and finished my battery and power cable project on the tractor, started it up, and low and behold the roller pump hadn't seized.
I replaced 2 so far due to it

I used RV anti freeze in the winter, the last two winters, and so far so good
I need to pick some up and gitter done

 

[Squeak n Itch]

The key here is the 3 hours per year usage. In such a case, unless you have a huge volume of water to move, it sounds like a job for a small dewatering pump that uses either 120V AC or 12V DC. These are available at most big box or discount tool stores for minimal cost. If high lift isn't necessary you could even get buy with a typical pond pump.

 

[Gator6x4]

Farmers have been using roller pumps for years on the PTO on their tractors to obtain water from creeks and ponds. They have a large filter on the intake to prevent sucking in trash and clogging of the suction hose by debris. Those with compressed air report they blow the water out in the fall. Others report using anti-freeze.

 

[bjr]

You guys must have different roller pumps from what I'm used to. They are about worthless when it come to suction from very far. I've done battle with one just setting on top of the spray rig tank. Just wouldn't pick up suction. Would not advise any kind of filter or screen on suction side. I've tried swing checks valve to keep water in pump to prime, but, to no avail. I'm with the guy that suggested a dedicated 120 volt submersible pump then you have a chance at moving water. bjr

 

[TimberXX]

Excellent information guys. Compressed air and anti freeze are good suggestions.

My suction head will be only about 6 feet vertical. My discharge head will be closer to 50 ft vertical.