In the process of getting my 1993 230A running, I have noticed that the raw water filter assembly (sea water filter) is showing its age. It is starting to show signs of breaking up, and I would like to take some proactive action before it fails on me.
I did consider replacing it with original parts, but with the housing itself (part number 856100) costing about US$210 and a fair bit more in Oz), plus the filters, cover etc. the cost of replacement of the whole unit seems to be around US$500. To me, that seems to be a really expensive piece of plastic which performs a fairly basic function and may have a limited lifespan.
I am thinking that perhaps I could replace the whole assembly with another filter - I'm thinking I could get a raw water filter from an irrigation watering system, or perhaps from a sump pump, that could do the same job as the original at a greatly reduced price. As the raw water comes from the sea water pump, I would not think the pressure would be too great even for a plastic one, although there would be a significant water flow. A stainless steel one would certainly take the pressure and water flow involved.
For example, a 1 1/4" stainless steel 'Y'' filter seems to be available on Evilbay for around $30 delivered, a 2" one for around $60 (with 1.00mm stainless steel mesh screen). I'm sure this would take the pressure and I would be able to plumb it in, even if it took a few fittings and improvision to do so. Even if I have to check and clean the filter after every use, I reckon I would be way in front.
Rather than reinvent the wheel, I wonder if anyone else has investigated the same idea and, if so, was it successful?
Alternatively, am I on the wrong track?
Any suggestions welcome.
Travel safe.
Peter
I did consider replacing it with original parts, but with the housing itself (part number 856100) costing about US$210 and a fair bit more in Oz), plus the filters, cover etc. the cost of replacement of the whole unit seems to be around US$500. To me, that seems to be a really expensive piece of plastic which performs a fairly basic function and may have a limited lifespan.
I am thinking that perhaps I could replace the whole assembly with another filter - I'm thinking I could get a raw water filter from an irrigation watering system, or perhaps from a sump pump, that could do the same job as the original at a greatly reduced price. As the raw water comes from the sea water pump, I would not think the pressure would be too great even for a plastic one, although there would be a significant water flow. A stainless steel one would certainly take the pressure and water flow involved.
For example, a 1 1/4" stainless steel 'Y'' filter seems to be available on Evilbay for around $30 delivered, a 2" one for around $60 (with 1.00mm stainless steel mesh screen). I'm sure this would take the pressure and I would be able to plumb it in, even if it took a few fittings and improvision to do so. Even if I have to check and clean the filter after every use, I reckon I would be way in front.
Rather than reinvent the wheel, I wonder if anyone else has investigated the same idea and, if so, was it successful?
Alternatively, am I on the wrong track?
Any suggestions welcome.
Travel safe.
Peter
