The other day I mentioned to a few members who were over that I had oiled my March pumps before the brew session. They had raised eyebrows… Yes, your pumps should be oiled regularly. For homebrewers, regularly is about twice a year. Four or five drops is all that is needed—and yes, for extended pump life and insurance of having a hassle free brew day—just do it . There are two ports on top of the pump, above the front and rear spindle bearing set (I do have one March pump that I bought back in ’95 and it has sealed bearings- no oiling!). Recommended is non-detergent sae 20 oil. I use Holden’s Zoom Spout Oiler (http://www.zoomspoutoiler.com/ , got mine at Patchen Eclectic on 9th) for the March pumps, furnace fan, attic fan, etc, but even 3in1 oil will work in a pinch.
This brings up another point to consider for those of you who mount your pumps on a brewstand. Make sure you try to keep those oil ports facing up so the oil doesn’t drain out. The mounting foot on the pump can be moved around the pump body to aid in favorable positioning.
An ounce of prevention…
March pump maintenance
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