Spa pump mystery leak

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evanwellens

evanwellens

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Jun 9, 2012
222
Stony Point, NY
Can't figure out what the deal is with the hot tub, still leaking. Had the seal replaced on the motor , replaced the volute oring , seal looks good , but steady leak. Took some videos , any ideas ? I've taken this thing apart tooo many times and it's hard to catch the leaky source due to the pump being behind all the plumbing and electronics.

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New video by Evan Wellens

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New video by Evan Wellens

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New video by Evan Wellens

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New item by Evan Wellens

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It's a solana TX with a watkins wave master.
 
I can't see your pics without signing up to let google have my photos. That's not going to happen, so you'll need to upload them to this forum if you want me to see them.
My first question, lacking pics, is what makes you think it's the pump? While shaft seals and union o-rings are common leaks, they are by no means the only possibility in that area. As you mentioned, it's pretty tight in there and pinpointing the source of a pressure leak can be challenging. Dry the area in question with paper towels then lay some fresh paper towels on it for a few seconds then inspect for wet spots. Check above suspected leaks to be sure it's not just dripping on that spot.
Aside from seals and o-rings, pumps can crack at the threads (usually suction side), drain plugs, or shaft seal well, unions can crack at the flange, and housings can warp and leak at the gasket. All of these are a PITA to locate.
 

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RDspaguy said:
I can't see your pics without signing up to let google have my photos. That's not going to happen, so you'll need to upload them to this forum if you want me to see them.
My first question, lacking pics, is what makes you think it's the pump? While shaft seals and union o-rings are common leaks, they are by no means the only possibility in that area. As you mentioned, it's pretty tight in there and pinpointing the source of a pressure leak can be challenging. Dry the area in question with paper towels then lay some fresh paper towels on it for a few seconds then inspect for wet spots. Check above suspected leaks to be sure it's not just dripping on that spot.
Aside from seals and o-rings, pumps can crack at the threads (usually suction side), drain plugs, or shaft seal well, unions can crack at the flange, and housings can warp and leak at the gasket. All of these are a PITA to locate.
Click to expand...
Thanks for the reply , not sure why you would have that issue. Pushed the videos to you tub


You can see now the leak appears to be from the pump. Nothing higher looks wet. There is a light connection and thermistor , but neither have any moisture around them. In the video I slip in a plastic mat which leaks not on the side of the volute ( hard to film and do ).

After seeing the videos does it add any insights ? Any suggestions how to proceed ?
 
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RDspaguy said:
Locate the leak specifically or start throwing parts at it.
Bad parts happen, as do installation errors. The previously mentioned cracks are basically invisible until you see water appear from them. If you don't want to track it down, put in a new wet-end or pump assembly.
Click to expand...
I would love to just replace the wet end , or even pump considering how many times I've removed the thing . But it's not made anymore. Not sure what will fit.
 

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