Getting back on track

[F.H]

I found with my old Jebao wavemakers that it would get too weak to start on its own... so after I plugged it in, I had to manually push the impeller a few times to get it sort of jump started. Once it got going then it would behave like normal. It only happened when I unplugged them, they would need a manual push/turn (using a chopstick or skewer or something) and would be fine as long as I didn't unplug them.

Give that a try, hopefully it'll resolve at least one of your headaches.

[dusty16]

Unfortunately already gave that a try. I used to have an old hang on filter that I kept going for another 5 years with that method. Thanks for the idea though.

[dusty16]

Anyone?

[hillegom]

Is your other wave maker the same as the non functioning one? If so, switch impellers. Check the bad one to see if the magnet has swelled a bit from rust.
Are the clearances ok? sometimes the bearing wears out. Any deposits of calcium in the motor block?
If the impeller wants to turn, or as you say "twitching", then there must be a clearance problem, or a jam IMHO.

[SmallFry]

I have had similar problems twice with my skimmer (ancient EuroReef) and the solution (twice now) has been a new impeller (indecently expensive but cheaper than a new pump).
It seems that the magnet swells over time, even with no signs of rust, and starts binding on the inside of the pump - sometimes you can see light scoring on the magnet.
I've had the same issues with the Jebao wave makers too, but haven't tried new impellers in them since I didn't make the connection until about 5 minutes ago - duh!

One day I'm going to make a tiny lathe to turn down and then epoxy coat the magnets again - has to be worth it given the last impeller for the skimmer came in around $90 by the time I'd had it shipped and everything..

[Craigdillman]

Nitrate is a huge test that could point the finger on whats going on if all those are good and the nitrate is 30 then you will see everything you seeing