questions about vortech mp40 gen 1

[christyf5]

Its a MP40 non-wireless with old style magnet (metal nut and driveshaft) so I'm assuming the firmware is old school too (haven't plugged it in yet).

LOL I already had to have Marie explain to me how the pins work. I didn't get the "sticker" on the dry side that lets you know the spacing, as well I didn't get the dry gasket (or instructions for that matter but they're on the internet).

I dunno about upgrading to wireless, I don't have another vortech for the first one to talk to, hopefully he doesn't get too lonely It looks like the magnet upgrade kit is all separate now, you have to buy the magnet and a "maintenance" kit that comes with 2 sets of shafts, nuts, washers and an extra impeller. Mind you, it seems aquariumspecialty sells a gen2 magnet upgrade kit that isn't on the ecotech site.

[Canadian]

Originally Posted by Red Coral Aquariums

I will find out but my price lists do not include just the magnet. I have just replaced the whole wet side under warranty for customers. The whole wet side is $79.00. if not under warranty. Find out where the pump was purchased originally and see if it can be covered.
Kevin

Here's the link to the Ecotech online parts store: http://ecotechmarine.com/parts-store/

The wet side magnet is $15USD directly from Ecotech to the consumer.

[mike31154]

Originally Posted by christyf5

Its a MP40 non-wireless with old style magnet (metal nut and driveshaft) so I'm assuming the firmware is old school too (haven't plugged it in yet).

LOL I already had to have Marie explain to me how the pins work. I didn't get the "sticker" on the dry side that lets you know the spacing, as well I didn't get the dry gasket (or instructions for that matter but they're on the internet).

I dunno about upgrading to wireless, I don't have another vortech for the first one to talk to, hopefully he doesn't get too lonely It looks like the magnet upgrade kit is all separate now, you have to buy the magnet and a "maintenance" kit that comes with 2 sets of shafts, nuts, washers and an extra impeller. Mind you, it seems aquariumspecialty sells a gen2 magnet upgrade kit that isn't on the ecotech site.

If you're content with the modes your current driver provides, with a single pump, there is no need to upgrade to wireless. Furthermore, if you have a non-wireless driver, there is no firmware to upgrade, you're stuck with the modes provided. If I remember correctly, the older pre-wireless drivers were metal boxes as opposed to plastic.

[mike31154]

Ok, VorTech magnet photos etc. for aid in differentiating Gen 1 from Gen 2.

Gen 1 magnet, nicely corroded, but still functioning without issue at time of replacement:



Gen 2 magnet, this one was damaged in the mail. Packaged in a bubble wrap envelope, I suspect the kit was caught in a conveyor system at the Canada Post distribution center in Quebec. The strength of the magnet obviously attracted it to a moving metal component that wore a chunk out of it. It took 3 tries to get me this kit, they finally packaged it in a small box to keep the magnet out of the postal service automated machinery. The other scratches are more recent, I had the Gen 1 & 2 a little too close together and almost lost a finger. Hell of a time getting them separated. Put my life on the line for canreef here...:



Gen 1 magnet profile:



Gen 2 magnet profile:



Older photo of some of the upgrade kit components. Don't recall exactly, but it may have come with a new endpiece due to the thicker magnet. Also came with a new ceramic bearing... I think...:





Did I mention these make very nice fridge magnets? You can hang up to three old winter coats on them no problem.

[hillegom]

Thank you Mike.
I have a gen 2

[christyf5]

Originally Posted by mike31154

Did I mention these make very nice fridge magnets? You can hang up to three old winter coats on them no problem.

thanks for the pics and the laugh!