Second pump and filter addition to Costco Bestway 31'x16'

[olalla]

I spent about a month prepping my back yard and constructing a base for a 31'x16' pool my wife bought at Costco. From what I've read the pump and filter the pool came with are under powered and most people upgrade them. I found a guy on Facebook selling a more powerful pump and sand filter along with a propane heater for $200! He's a really nice older gentleman that had the same size pool up until a few years ago when his kids all moved out.

When I buy the new (used) pump I will have the extra the pool came with. Can I add the original setup to the pool as a second system? I do not want to cut into the liner. I'm new to this pool thing and cutting the pool scares the heck out of me (maybe eventually). I'd like to use this second system to handle a solar heater and a bottom vacuum unit. Can I use PVC pipe to rig it over the top of the pool if I prime the pump? I could split the intake for safety reasons.

Any thoughts? Thanks

 

[ajw22]

Show us pictures of what you want to do.

The devil is in the details.

 

[CT-Steven]

There are quite a few moving pieces here and really would want to know the make and models of the pool, pump, filter, and heater along with any pictures.
My initial thought is a "standard" pump/filter are designed to work with industry standard plumbing (1.5" - 2"). You can adapt them down to use the Intex/Bestway "smaller" hoses (depending on model of pool) as the only fall back is an increase in water pressure due to a more restrictive path but nothing that is of concern. What might be a problem is the heater as it might require the flow rate afforded by the 1.5" pipe but until we have the make, and model really cannot say for sure. Once you post the info, I am sure we can get someone more adapt to flow rates can chime in to see if the smaller tubes present any issues.

As for a second system, again the "new" pump might suffice as my 1hp Hayward can easily power my robot that runs off the return as well as a fountain without missing a beat.
The issue with an over-the-top rail setup is if you lose prime you risk burning out the pump if left to run dry.