How to Measure and Calibrate Your Simple Pump Rod Ratio for Proper Operation

Introduction

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Proper calibration of your Simple Pump rod ratio is essential for optimal pump performance and longevity. An inaccurate rod-to-pipe ratio can cause the piston to strike the cylinder ends, leading to damage and loss of prime. This guide walks you through measuring and adjusting your pump rod ratio to achieve smooth, reliable operation.

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Tools Needed

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• Tape measure or ruler (in inches)
• Adjustable wrench
• Replacement close nipples (various lengths)
• Rod extenders (provided with pump or ordered from Simple Pump)
• Protective gloves

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Steps to Measure and Calibrate Your Simple Pump Rod Ratio

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Step 1: Understand Why Rod Ratio Matters

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The rod ratio determines the piston stroke length inside the cylinder. Proper calibration ensures the piston does not hit the cylinder's top or bottom on any handle stroke, avoiding damage to seals and valves and ensuring the pump holds prime.

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Step 2: Prepare Your Pump for Measurement

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After completing all drop pipe kit installations and just before attaching the pump head assembly, make sure your system is assembled but not yet secured at the top.

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Step 3: Measure the Current Rod Distance

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Using a tape measure, measure from the top of the stainless steel coupling (at the top drop pipe) to the shoulder of the rod (not the threads). Note this measurement in inches.

Tip: The ideal rod-to-pipe ratio distance should be between 4 and 6 inches, with 5 inches being perfect.

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Step 4: Analyze Your Measurement

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• If the measurement is longer than 6 inches (e.g., 8 inches), you will need to shorten the effective rod length.
• If the measurement is shorter than 4 inches (e.g., 2-3 inches), you will need to extend the rod length.

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Step 5: Adjusting a Rod Length That Is Too Long

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If your rod protrusion is too long (e.g., 8 inches), you must use a longer nipple to reduce the rod extension inside the cylinder:

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1. Calculate the difference between your current measurement and the ideal (5 inches). For example, 8 inches minus 5 inches equals 3 inches.
2. Add the length of the nipple (approximately 1.5 inches).
3. This total tells you the nipple size to use (e.g., 3 inches + 1.5 inches = 4.5 inches).
4. Select the closest standard nipple size (either 4 or 5 inches):

• A 4-inch nipple will give a 5.5-inch protrusion (acceptable)
• A 5-inch nipple will give a 4.5-inch protrusion (also acceptable)

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Tip: Choose the nipple size that keeps the rod protrusion between 4 and 6 inches.

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Step 6: Adjusting a Rod Length That Is Too Short

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If your rod protrusion is too short (under 4 inches), use rod extenders provided with the pump:

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1. Each rod extender adds 1.25 inches.
2. Add one or more extenders until your measurement reaches the 4 to 6 inch range.
3. Contact Simple Pump customer service if you need additional extenders beyond what is supplied.

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Step 7: Final Check

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After adjustments, re-measure to confirm the rod ratio is within the 4 to 6 inches range.

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Step 8: Test Pump Operation

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Once assembled:

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• Operate the handle fully up and down.
• Ensure the piston does not hit either end of the cylinder.
• Listen and feel for smooth, unobstructed movement.

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This confirms successful calibration.

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Additional Tips

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• Always use components supplied or recommended by Simple Pump.
• Keep measurements precise to ensure longevity and performance.
• Reach out to Simple Pump support with any questions or for extra parts.

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Conclusion

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Calibrating your Simple Pump rod ratio is a straightforward but vital step to protect your pump and guarantee efficient water delivery. With careful measurement and proper adjustment using close nipples or rod extenders, you can confidently ensure full strokes and smooth operation.

For more detailed assistance, visit Simple Pump Support or call 877-492-8711.

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Thank you for choosing Simple Pump, and happy pumping!