Spectra Cape Horn blues...

[Lennie]

I have an older Cape Horn that I bought a few years ago. And installing it now.
When I first tried to run it sea water wasn't making it to the feed pump. I found a check valve in the inlet that was blocking flow. Question, do I need this check valve?
OK after removing the valve I decided to try it again. This time with the pressure relief valve open a half turn, I had water at the brine discharge as expected. But little or no pressure at the gauge. Closed the pressure relief valve and no pressure. Are my feed pumps bad? Air in the system?

Len

[Tellie]

Originally Posted by Lennie

I have an older Cape Horn that I bought a few years ago. And installing it now.
When I first tried to run it sea water wasn't making it to the feed pump. I found a check valve in the inlet that was blocking flow. Question, do I need this check valve?
OK after removing the valve I decided to try it again. This time with the pressure relief valve open a half turn, I had water at the brine discharge as expected. But little or no pressure at the gauge. Closed the pressure relief valve and no pressure. Are my feed pumps bad? Air in the system?

Len

Yes you need the check valve in place. This prevents salt water intrusion during the fresh water flush. Chance's are good the feed pumps diaphragms have dried out and the pumps heads need to be replaced. It is also possible there is a Clark pump issue but I would need to walk you through a few tests. Let me know if I can help

HaldenMarineService@yahoo.com
J.T. (954) 515-7077

[Lennie]

Thanks, I'll probably replace the pumps and order a membrane.
Any suggestions of where to shop? I have found membrane prices to be all over the place.
Len

[SV THIRD DAY]

The Cape Horn uses the standard Dow Filmtec SW30-2540 Membrane.
Just enter that into google and you will find prices from $197 to $600 for the same membrane.

[Tellie]

Just a note and all due respect to others and just an observation. If you get the opportunity to get great information on how to fix your system for free, it might be a nice thought and to help dispel the cheap skate reputation we sailors sometimes rightfully earn and purchase the parts to fix your system from the very person that helped you.


HaldenMarineService@yahoo.com
(954) 515-7077

[Lennie]

Quick update. Fixed several leaks and the pump pressure went up
And has improved with use. Product water is at 420ppm it so with the old membrane.