Main Pump Now Loud & Vibrating

[truetide]

We have a Gulf Coast spa (Boca Grande model bought in 2002). We bought a gecko replacement spa pack from Allied Innovations, model SC-MP-P122-P212-B1-01-CP1-AU11-H4.0-U-LCD-AMP-NE-SBD 0202-205163. The supplier said that model was the replacement for the original spa pack model SSPA-MP-P122-P212-B1-01-NE-LS H5.5-AMP-HS2 0202-205114. I recently had to replace one of the suction fittings and some flex PVC hose, which required me to disconnect the spa pack and move it out of the way. Once I refilled the spa tub and turned the circuit breaker back on, the 2-speed main pump automatically went to high speed. The pump (new in Jan 2010) circulates the water as before, but now it has a much louder sound (except when on low speed), vibrates much more than before and gets very hot to the touch. I have checked the wiring diagram for the spa pack and know I have the plugs for the pumps, ozonator and blower reconnected correctly. Could I have something else connected improperly? Any help would be appreciated.

[MaryH]

So did you disconnect the wiring to back of the motor? Usually upon start up the pump (http://www.hottubworks.com/SpaParts/PumpsLanding.php) will go on in low speed, so wanted to make sure the low and high speed wires on the pump aren't reversed. Also as far as the loud pump and vibration, I am not sure why that has occured. I am wondering if you have air trapped in the pump. You can try releasing any air in the pump that may be causing the noise and vibration by just slightly loosening the pump union nut just enough to allow water to seep out. Then tighten back up and run the pump.