I so dislike ceramic impeller shafts

[gparr]

I'm cleaning skimmer and main drive pumps tonight and snapped the shaft on my skimmer's Sedra 3500 pump. I found a replacement at Salty Critter and hope they can ship it tomorrow so I'll have it Friday. Of course, this happens just before I'm going to be gone for a week. Why don't they use stainless steel shafts for these pumps? Extremely frustrating.
Gary

 

[AquaWorldPSC]

I think because the friction is less on a ceramic shaft maybe?

 

[Reef Pets]

Gary - You might be able to find a carbon fiber rod that will replace the shaft. I have found them to be much better and more durable than the ceramic shafts. You just need the same diameter and a diamond wheel blade will cut it easly.

 

[gparr]

Thanks, Reefpets. I'll see if I can find some carbon fiber material.

Meanwhile, Salty Critter came through and I'll have replacement shafts Friday. The overnight fee for two shafts is a little tough to swallow, but my skimmer will be back in action Friday night. A tip of the cap to Dan at Salty Critter for making it happen.
Gary

 

[SaraB]

Of course, this happens just before I'm going to be gone for a week.

Why does Murphy's Law always kick in just before leaving town?

Glad you were able to locate a replacement Gary!

 

[gparr]

Yes, most frustrating. Trying to do the right thing so my family won't have any problems when I'm gone and it ends up costing me $40 for two ceramic sticks. Grrrrrrrrrrr!!!!
Gary

 

[kfennell]

Alot of local hobby stores carry titanium and stainless shafts that will work as a replacement too for next time.

 

[impur]

I replace almost all the ceramic ones with carbon fiber. I always break the ceramic ones. A carbon fiber shaft 2 feet long at my hobby shop runs 3 bucks