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Motor problems

Pumps need to be driven by a motor. These motors require routine checks and maintenance. Two types of motors are commonly found driving pumps:

Electrical

Power for electrical driven pumps are either 3 phase (440 volt) supply or standard 240 volt motors drive the pump. Faults common to these involve normal wear and tear of the moving parts of the motor such as the armature shaft, brushes and bearings. There are no serviceable parts on an electrical motor and repairs should not be attempted.

Keep the fan clean and clear of debris. The fan helps to cool the motor. If debris accumulates around the cooling fins, the pump will begin to heat up and wear will be accelerated. Overheating may cause premature shutdown of the pump through the failsafe overload switch. If the pump fails to operate always check this as a first step. It's pretty embarrassing and expensive to call in an electrician to repair an inoperative pump motor, just to press one button to get the pump working.

Where appropriate, grease, or machine oil, may be required on bearings. Always check the motor service manual for these details. Do not apply oil directly to an electric motor as damage may result to electrical components. Check cables, plugs and switches for damage. Where damage is detected contact your electrical contractor to service. Do not attempt to repair electrical faults yourself.

Where a relay switch is used from controllers, check their operation occasionally. If intermittent faults occur have the relay serviced by a qualified electrician

Diesel and petrol fuel engines

These types of pump drive require more frequent checks and maintenance.

Fuel levels should be checked regularly. This will depend on the size of the fuel tank, but regular checks will prevent the engine running dry. This is not such a big problem with petrol motors, but with diesels this may require the fuel line to be bled. This is a time consuming process that enables fuel to reach the injectors.

Other regular checks to ensure the engines perform properly includes, oil, water or coolant level (if it has a radiator), air filters, fuel filter, oil and fuel leaks, loose bolts and screws.

A regular service for all fuel engines is a must. The small cost of a full service before the main irrigation season can save a lot possible plant losses due to unnecessary breakdowns. Full services will include such things as jet overhauls (diesels), timing adjustment, spark plugs adjustment or replacement (Petrol), fan belt replacement, air filter replacement, coolant replacement, gear box oil check (if engine is connected to the pump through a transmission). A qualified mechanic best does services of this nature. Specialised tools are often required for services and damage to motors brought about by using incorrect tools often means greater expense for the resulting repairs.

Degrease and clean the engine occasionally as a build up of oil and grease will often conceal small intermittent faults like damaged wires, oil or coolant leaks.