Bulkhead size for GenX MAk4

[merk1_99]

Alright I am ready to drill my tank. For a closed loop I am going to use the Genx Mak4 run two 3/4'' penductors as returns. It has and inlet of 3/4'', and outlet 3/4''. Would there be any negative problems if I feed the pump through a 1'' bulkhead constricting the flow down to 3/4'' a foot or so before the pump, if I don't do it at the pump. I've heard on the gen X you want to take the size of in the inlet plumbing down from an inch to 3/4'' a minimum of 9'' before the pump to maintain its silent running....I can't see any problems feeding it through a one inch bulkhead, but I'm not 100% sure....

 

[Jill & Brian]

I reduced mine from 1" to 3/4" within 5" of the inlet, and have not had a problem for the 8 months it has been running. It is not loud, but it is on a cement basement floor so it is well isolated from the system

 

[marco67]

I've done them both ways.
Restricting the inlet definitely
makes a difference in flow rate.
Now I always use a 1 1/2" bulkhead out of the bulkhead into a 1 1/2" ball valve then a true union (or a 1 1/2" true union ball) use a 3/4' threaded x 1 1/2" female adaptor to get to the pump. Running your intake "flooded" like this will ensure your pump never starves for water.

 

[marco67]

Another thing that may be just coincidence, but out of around 10-12 of these that I have running the only time I've ever had trouble on a restart is on the ones (2) that have the 1" bulkhead/feed. It seems they get air bound or something. I've never looked to deeply into it I just do them all at 1 1/2" now.

 

[merk1_99]

Thanks Marco....I'm gonna do it your way....