The Daring Dufas wrote:

Erma1ina wrote:
The Daring Dufas wrote:
Erma1ina wrote:
I decided to replace my still-working but aging sump pump with one (1/3
hp Wayne CDU790) that I got 7.5 years ago and kept stored in its
original packaging.

When I took the pump out of the original box, I noticed a small amount
(probably less than an ounce) of oil in the discharge volute. My fear is
that the motor seal has weakend from being on the shelf for so long.

I'd appreciate opinions on whether the pump is too risky, either
mechanically or electrically, to install.
Under what conditions was the pump stored. In a hot attic,
a cool dry place or an outbuilding?

TDD

It was stored in a cabinet in my unfinished basement which ranges in
temperature from about 60 degrees in winter to about 75 degrees in
summer with a pretty constant 40 - 50 percent humidity.

If it had been a hot attic, I would be very concerned.
You certainly stored it properly. Is there a local pump
shop or electric motor repair company in your area? If
so, you might ask them what they would charge to check
the pump out. It's a good pump and most people think
highly of them. I've seen them priced from $90-$150 new
and $60 for a factory reman. I would find out the cost of
a seal replacement verses new pump. The local shop may
check it for you at no charge and be able to tell you
if the seal is bad. In my area we have some good motor
and pump shops that will check out a pump like yours at
no charge and repair them economically.

TDD

Thanks for the suggestions, Daring Dufas.

I checked with my local plumber who thinks it should be OK. Also, taking
your advice, I called a local electric motor repair shop who said they'd
be able to check it out for about $10.

The pump seems to work just fine - I ran through several sump loads to
watch it and listen to it. I've got another, identical pump on order
and, when it arrives, I'll install it IMMEDIATELY after cycling the
"stored" pump through a few more loads. Then, I'll let the "stored" one
sit and check it after a month or so to see if more oil has leaked. If
it hasn't, I'll just rotate the 2 pumps yearly so that I always have a
backup. If more leaked, I'll take it in to the shop to have them check
it out and, if need be and it's worth it, have them repair it.

Thanks again.