SPX Flow CART. Aerator Pump 500 GPH STR

Needed to replace my aerator pump and I like the easy swap heads on these and use them for my bilge pumps as well. The old aerator screwed onto a 3/4in valve with standard garden hose thread (11.4 threads per inch) but this uses 14 threads per inch so they are incompatible. The screw portion does however fit snugly into a 1in pvc pipe so gluing it in that with a garden hose connector on the end fixed it up nicely.

Short version: after "heavy" use in salt water conditions, I love it and would absolutely recommend it. I purchased my first one locally on recommendation of an old salt. It was bad out of the box 😮😳😂 Seller said it's not uncommon, but the same happens with other brands, in higher numbers. He stood by his recommendation and swapped it out no problem. This one was for a DIY kayak bait well. It is not a cheap pump, it is a very well designed pump and this translates to more bang for the buck. Tip: Good level positioning is important to avoid air bubbles. I ran a screened intake with a check valve thru a scupper, kept the intake just above the bottom of the scupper and in this configuration, it does not collect weeds much. With the in-line check valves, no need to be moving to get the pump started (nor extending the intake below the scupper, which collects Sargassum weed and snot/mud when portaging thru inshore flats, no good). Connect to the pump intake, then reduce exit above pump to add an inline squeeze-ball, also with check valve (the basic rubber type). Install a thru wall fitting into the tank, mount 1/8" holes drilled pvc tube as spray bar angled toward the wall to prevent tiring baits with too much current. Also helps aerate, no bubbler needed. Simple overflow screen with flex tube exit. In the hot, calm summer days, I let it drain thru the rear deck scupper and help keep the kayak interior cooler or drape it back over the side . Love the easy swap cartridge design and it comes with option to mount straight down or 90• Ran this on a $40 timer switch, but it didn't hold up long in saltwater. I swapped it for a simple off/on toggle and just run it depending on type, number of baits and water/air temps. Another advantage, the nipples don't easily bust from over tightening (both pumps in a boat we bought had busted nipples, replaced them both with the Johnson 500 gph). But if they did, you can just swap it out with a spare nipple instead of replacing the entire pump. As I'm writing this, I realize how much I really like these pumps. Longevity? In the kayak, 5 days a week 6-16 hours a day 😂 for 3 years without issues other than a plugged intake, simple on the water tape job fix. It's easy to prime the pump by hand, once it's got solid pressure she's good to go for the day.

Easy to replace

Works after I get it primed

Pump arrived promptly in good condition. Replacement for 10 year old pump that failed. Removed old pump and cleaned area. Johnson pump fit right in. Secured in place, attached hose and wires and she fired right up. Runs quiet and pumps a lot of water. If it lasts as long as last one I will be happy. Like replacement cartridge design. Total job took about 30 minutes.

This is a one inch diameter pump, Most are 3/4 inch. My boat had a predrilled hole in the transom for a 1 inch pump. I have used this brand previously and they have always been reliable and functioned as designed.

Very easy to install just don’t forget in put some silicone around where it mounts up on the housing. Definitely worth it and fast to swap out. What I love about these pumps they have quick discount for fast and easy change out. Just pull the tab and twist.

The intake is designed for through hull but I figured I could cut it down since it is all thread and screw it into 3/4" skin valve. It is close but just slightly too big- tried filing, wire wheel, and grinding wheel to taper end and get it started but couldn't get it past a couple threads. Took my cut of piece to Lowe's and for some reason the 3/4" female CPVC fittng is over size just a little with a garden hose gasket on the bottom-So was able to adapt it. It also comes with a straight and 90* outlet hose adapter.

fits perfect in my boat

All I had to do was cut the stem down. Works perfect as my pump out oump

Works great

The o ring was set improperly which created a leak. The unit had to be taken appart and assembled correctly after being installed.

Good pump...