Spectra Santa Cruz water maker - purchase second hand - how to test?

[jonathanv]

We are slowly gathering up all the gear we need for a longer cruise and I have been looking at second hand water makers. A Spectra Santa Cruz has popped up for a reasonable price. The question I have: what should I look out for when buying second hand and is there anything specific to watch out for with this model?

• Are there still spare parts available for this model?
• Can I test it at home (I am not close to the boat or a good supply of clean salt water)
• Does it use standard membrane sizes?

The owner has pickled the membrane and it has only been used one season (2008/2009).

[a64pilot]

You send Tellie a message, call him etc. before you do anything. There may be services required to prevent damage or their may not be, but he would know for sure.
He is certainly the one to answer about part availability etc.

[Kenomac]

Membranes are cheap, pumps usually go bad from sitting, but the main thing you’re after is the Clark pump. Don't expect everything to be in good working order.... it can be fixed easily and usually for much less than the cost of a new watermaker.

[Tellie]

I cut my teeth on Santa Cruz units when no one else wanted to touch them. The Santa Cruz was Spectras first try at a watermaker in a box. These are a real treat to work on in their configuration. I would highly recommend that you strip the box of all it's parts, feed pump/s valve's, filter housings, etc., and re=plumb it into a more modular set up. I can send you a diagram on how to properly wire and plumb it this way. If the feed pump motors are working then I would think one or two new pumps heads are in order.( Depending on your Santa Cruz, they either came with one or two feed pumps) A new membrane, and a Clark pump check out and repair. If it was truly only used for the one season claimed there are going to be O-rings and seals that will need to be replaced. Along with some new 5/8" braided hose, clamps, a few nylon fittings, etc. and this system can be brought to like new condition and it would certainly be less cost than a new unit. Of course that depends on what you initially paid for it.

[jonathanv]

Thanks Tellie, this is very useful to know. The diagram would be very handy to have. What do you think would be a good offer for one of these?

It's advertised here. It's in Dutch but the pictures might be helpful to see.

[Mangofishsauce]

Hello Tellie
I have a spectra santa cruz with two pumps.
It has been pickled since at least 2012.
It came with the boat .
Would i be able to get that diagram from you if possible.
Thanks

[Tellie]

Originally Posted by Mangofishsauce

Hello Tellie
I have a spectra santa cruz with two pumps.
It has been pickled since at least 2012.
It came with the boat .
Would i be able to get that diagram from you if possible.
Thanks

Sure,


https://www.spectrawatermakers.com/d...l-ae051616.pdf