Like any mechanical system, certain Simple Pump components experience wear during normal operation. Understanding which parts wear and when to replace them ensures continued reliable performance.
Parts That Wear (Not Covered by Warranty)
Cylinder Seals (U-Cup Seals)
What they do: Create the seal that allows the piston to pump water.
Wear indicators:
- Reduced pumping efficiency
- Pump takes more strokes to produce water
- Air mixing with water
Typical lifespan: 3-10+ years depending on usage
Replacement: Seal kits available for each cylinder model
Graphite-Impregnated Bronze Bushings
What they do: Support and guide moving components.
Wear indicators:
- Unusual friction during operation
- Slight play in moving parts
Typical lifespan: Many years under normal use
Guides, Shims, and Bearings
What they do: Align and support components for smooth operation.
Wear indicators:
- Changes in pump feel
- Component misalignment
Typical lifespan: Varies with usage
Motor Brushes (Motorized Systems Only)
What they do: Transfer electrical current to motor armature.
Wear indicators:
- Reduced motor performance
- Motor runs rough or inconsistently
- Sparking at brush area
Typical lifespan: ~5,000 hours of operation
Replacement: Motor cap brush kit available
Parts That DON'T Typically Wear
These components are covered by Simple Pump's lifetime parts warranty:
Pump Head Assembly
- Precision machined aluminum
- Designed for decades of service
- Warranty covers manufacturing defects
Drop Pipe Components
- Schedule 80 PVC construction
- Stainless steel couplers
- No wear parts
Pump Rod
- 3/4" stainless steel
- Corrosion resistant
- Lifetime durability
Cylinder Body
- Heavy-duty construction
- Only seals require maintenance
Lever Arm
- Solid construction
- Normal use doesn't cause wear
Maintenance Schedule
Annual Inspection
- Visual check of accessible components
- Listen for unusual sounds during operation
- Check pump output efficiency
Seal Replacement Indicators
Replace seals when you notice:
- Significant reduction in output per stroke
- Air consistently mixing with water
- Pumping effort changes
Motor Maintenance (Motorized Systems)
- Monitor brush wear after 4,000 hours
- Replace brushes at ~5,000 hours
- Annual inspection recommended
Seal Kits by Cylinder Model
| Model | Seal Kit | Part Number |
|---|---|---|
| 100CA | 100CA Seal Kit | seal-kit-for-100ca |
| 125CA | 125CA Seal Kit | seal-kit-for-125ca |
| 200CA | 200CA Seal Kit | seal-kit-for-200ca |
Spare Parts Kits
For preparedness, consider keeping these on hand:
Standard Spare Parts Kit
- Includes common wear components
- Ready for when maintenance is needed
- Economical bundle pricing
Motor-Specific Kits
- Motor Cap Brush Kit
- Motor-specific maintenance items
Factors Affecting Wear Rate
Usage Frequency
- Daily use: Earlier seal replacement
- Emergency backup only: Longer intervals
- Commercial use: More frequent maintenance
Water Quality
- Clean water: Minimal abrasive wear
- Sandy water: Faster seal wear
- Hard water: Potential mineral buildup
Operating Conditions
- Normal depths: Standard wear
- Maximum depths: Higher stress
- Pressurized systems: More demand
Warranty Coverage Reminder
Lifetime warranty covers:
- Manufacturing defects
- Non-wear parts
- Materials and workmanship
Not covered:
- Normal wear items listed above
- Improper installation damage
- Abuse or misuse
Ordering Replacement Parts
Replacement parts available through:
- Direct from Simple Pump
- Authorized dealers
When ordering, specify your cylinder model for correct seal kit.
Technical Support: 877-492-8711 ext. 6