Turning a Sta-rite 2 HP pump into a 3 HP pump

15 years ago

I got my hands on a Sta-rite Max-E-Pro pump for free. It is a 2 HP pump and in good working condition, but I need a 3 HP pump for my waterfall.

I thought I would ask here if anyone knew before I call the manufacturer, and the question is:

Can I order a 3 HP motor, and switch it out for the 2 HP motor? Is the pump compatible to do this or are the pumps specific to the motors and their relative HP?

It would save me some coin if this is possible to do.

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Comments (6)

domingos35
15 years ago
not sure but i think it can be done.
u will probably need a bigger impeller to
again not sure
mas985
15 years ago
Just changing the motor will not increase the flow rate. You also need to change the impeller to the 3 HP version. Make sure you get the whole impeller kit with seals so you can replace them.
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mikethepoolguy
15 years ago
c105238pla is the 3hp impeller #. Why do I know this?
huskyridor
15 years ago
The impeller and it's cover plate are a MUST when up or downsizing a replacement motor of a different horsepower.
There is a very big difference in the size of the water channels in the impeller of a 2 -vs- 3 hp pump assembly.

My suggestion would be to first install the 2hp pump as/is and look at your return to the waterfall. If you find it adequate leave it alone and enjoy the savings on your electricity. If not, purchase the items you need.
I'll encourage you to be sitting down when you get your price for the 3hp electric motor. They ain't cheap.

See ya,
Kelly
renovxpt
15 years ago
Are you sure you have the piping to support 3 hp? Maybe a low or medium head pump would provide the gpms needed without increasing the hp. I believe that is a high head pump which isn't neccessarily the best choice for a waterfall.
ventinc
Original Author
15 years ago
So, a little research and confirmation from you guys have lead me to believe this is quite possible. Because of mikethepool guy, I already have a head start on the part numbers!

renovxpt- my spa plumbing is 4 inch, and my waterfall plumbing is 3 inch, with calculated flow rates for maximum efficiency and desired effects for water flow, so I know I have accounted for proper plumbing for 3 hp.(at least I hope I have) My waterfall plumbing run is about 40 ft. with another 10ft of rise (and another 20 ft. for slide) and it will be feeding a split double-sheer descent waterfall, so that is the reason for big plumbing and lots of HP.

Kelly- excellent advice, thank you. I got too ambitious during the design phase of my pool and the costs have caught up to me, so I am going to try the 2 Hp as is, and then make changes later if they become necessary. No reason not to at least try it with 2 hp and see if it works.

What are your thoughts on a 2 Hp pump for a 8 jet spa? My plumbing size will be 4 inch suction and 4 inch return for use with a 3 hp pump. Would a 2 hp pump be underwhelming?

I looked up the prices on 3 hp motors. Holy Shnikies! If 2 hp doesn't cut it, maybe I can add another 1 hp pump as a booster? Seems to be cheaper than switching out a 2hp motor for a 3 hp motor. Equipment pad space is not really an issue.

Turning a Sta-rite 2 HP pump into a 3 HP pump

Comments (6)

domingos35

mas985

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Turning a Sta-rite 2 HP pump into a 3 HP pump

Comments (6)

domingos35

mas985

Related Discussions

mikethepoolguy

huskyridor

renovxpt

ventincOriginal Author

COMPANY

BUSINESS SERVICES

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ventinc
Original Author