Running an inline pump

[lazluvtoo]

For years I have been running my mag 7 pump submerged and now would like to run it as an inline pump.

Can anyone tell me how this is done? Diagrams or pictures would be helpful.

Thanks so much!

Cindy

[sjm817]

You can do it by adding fittings to the intake and outputs, and you need a bulkhead in the sump. Why do you want to do this? These are not the ideal pumps to run externally.

[lazluvtoo]

I was considering running it inline because I was advised that a Mag 7 pump could be run externally. Would it be better just to run it in the sump?

[sjm817]

You wont really gain anything by running it externally. Running it in sump will be simpler, and reduce the chance of leaks.

[tcwayne]

When I had a 90 I ran a mag 9.5 and initially it was in sump and then I plumbed it externally. I had problems with leaks and it never pumped as well as when it was submerged. While the mags are a good pump, I think the inlet fitting is quite weak.

[OceanAV]

I had opposite experience.
When I started my tank I ran MAG 9.5 submerged. With ambient temperature 79 water in tank hit 83.
Drilled the side of my sump, put the bulkhead in and moved pump inline. Temperature dropped to 81.
Been running that way for 4 years, the same pump - no problems so far.

OP: if you will decide to move - add ball valves on the intake and output - maintenance will be easier.
Use flex pipe from bulkhead to pump and from pump to return line, set the pump on a soft rubber pad and
the noise level/vibration will be reduced. My skimmer makes more noise than Mag. HTH.

[sjm817]

I've seen tests where the temp did not change one bit internal Vs external. Since it is a water cooled pump, I wouldn't expect a change unless there was some forced air movement with a fan to remove some heat from the motor block and then not very much. A reduction in flow from extra plumbing will also reduce the power use of the pump which could contribute to a reduction in heat.

Some people have problems with the front cover leaking on the mag pumps when run externally, some dont.

If you want to run an external pump, IMO, use an external, not a submersible.

[OceanAV]

My stand is vented. The pump is quite worm to the touch. So at least some of that heat is removed instead of transferred to the water.

There are definitely better alternatives to mag 9.5. But if you already have it - it can be used external or submersible. I don’t have the box any more but Google should help to find full description.