Automatic Oil Filter / Water Separator for Harvest Right - JB Vacuum Pump.

I built a filter system to clean the oil and separate water at the same time for my Harvest Right JB Pump. The best part is that I don't have to drain the oil, and it can happen while the pump is running!
The system is simple. It uses a diesel fuel filter that has a built in water separator. There is also a gas / diesel fuel pump that pulls oil through the filter, and returns it to the vacuum pump. The oil originates from where oil is normally drained out of the vacuum pump (to filter), and it is returned to the pump where you would normally fill with oil. There are a bunch of fittings involved, and also some clear vinyl tubing. I've run the system for about 3 months and the vinyl has had no issues having oil in it the whole time.
I found the re-circulation pump doesn't need to run the entire time, so I added a programmable timer to control how long it's on and how long it's off.
If you are going to do something like this, I'm sure it will void your pump warranty. This project is for the experiments out there who want to take the risk.
I've now run over 30 batches and will open the pump when I hit 40 batches to see how clean it is inside... That's twice as many batches as they recommend between cleaning the inside. Time will tell.
A complete parts list can be found here:
theepicenter.c...
Benefits of Home Freeze Drying:
theepicenter.c...
Introduction to the Harvest Right Freeze Dryer:
theepicenter.c...
Details and Prices:
theepicenter.c...

[@cgurr6698]

Bryan this a great set up. I did one small improvement, I used an SPST (on-off-on) switch, in the first "ON" position the timer is activated, in the second "ON" position the pump is always on. I use the second position to purge air and when adding oil.

[@EdwardsNH]

That's some next level tinkering. Way to engineer!

[@derek59collier]

I think this is a great idea! I put one on my FD. But being stubborn I wanted to get one of the small 12V 5A power supplies to work on it. It worked for a minute and then started chattering and stopped pumping. So I killed the power supply and asked myself why. I got to thinking about the pump action and decided that it could be the reverse EMF that was blowing out the supply. I put a protection diode IN5408 3A 1000V across the pump connections with the silver ring (Cathode) on the positive side. Polarity is important. Now my 12V 5A power supply is pumping like a champ. And yes, the diagram that comes with the timer is a little wonky. Keep up the good work!

[@sbender3787]

This solves one of the reasons I have held back on purchasing a freeze dryer. I will have to reconsider. I am amazed at how clean the oil appears.

[@EpicenterBryan]

It does an amazing job. I'll be opening the pump when I hit 40 batches with this setup and we will see what it looks like inside. I cleaned the pump before I attached everything and started using this.

[@jamesfu]

@@EpicenterBryan Nice setup! Did you ever get around to checking the insides after 40 batches?

[@truthseekertoday2377]

Bryan you are a genius. Harvest Right should pay you for inventions and ideas.

[@andyh7537]

You've probably solved this problem by now, but the reason that ball valve leaks is just due to a casting defect or the handle was installed a little wonky. You can remove the nut and re-position the handle , or file away a little of the brass on the stop to let the handle travel further. Cheers!

[@squishy312]

Harvest Right should work with the pump manufacturer to make a system like this to make it easier for the customers. They have the capacity to do a lot of R&D and streamline this. Otherwise, this is an amazing idea that would be beneficial to anyone that has one of these and loves to tinker. Awesome implementation!

[@EpicenterBryan]

Thanks Kevin!

[@jamcclureuk]

This helped me a lot! Thank you. I ended up just using a separate reservoir. Pour the dirty oil in. Turn it on and let it work. Pour filtered oil back in pump. Doesn't void pump warranty for those who might be worried about that.

[@HenryQHe]

Hi, would you mind sharing what did you buy for the separate reservoir? Thanks

[@jamcclureuk]

@@HenryQHe www.motosport.com/product/?acctid=21700000001662562&adgroupid=56451681825&campaignid=1469173138&cc=us&channel=online&creative=281206792553&device=c&ds_s_inventory_feed_id=97700000007265446{ifpla:&ds_s_kwgid=58700005284117248&dskeywordid=92700046695721311&dsproductgroupid=471851541823&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIjtHdxZm56wIVAdbACh2KiAGNEAQYASABEgKDDfD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds&key=Motion-Pro-Auxiliary-Tank&lid=92700046695721311&locationid={loc_phyiscal_ms}&matchtype=&merchid=348908&mrkgadid=3301756004&mrkgbflag=0&mrkgcat=dirtbikeparts&mrkgcl=500&mrkgen=gpla&network=g&prodctry=US&prodlang=en&product_id=MOP0012-X001-Y001&pssource=true&segment=badger&storeid={product_store_id}&targetid=pla-471851541823&variant=MOP0012-X001-Y001&variant[MOP0012]=MOP0012-X001-Y001

[@Stormrunner0002]

Thanks brian. You solve a puzzle for me concerning the 12v supply. Full speed ahead again buddy.

[@EpicenterBryan]

Glad that helped. I assume you tried to use a PC power supply. Did that Green wire get you?

[@scottstoyan5379]

Brian, Thank you so much for taking the time to give us some ideas how to solve the constant oil changes. One improvement I made is to use a programmable outlet timer that way I can delay start of my on/off program for 8-9 hours so it will start after the freeze portion of the cycle. After the cycle is complete all I have to do is unplug the outlet timer (internal battery backup to save settings) then plug back in on the next cycle. I think this is an improvement to the 12v programmable logic controller.

[@EpicenterBryan]

Great idea too! Thanks for posting that.

[@JusASix1]

What would be the downside to having the oil pump running continuously?

[@tazblink]

There are several videos on youtube showing how to turn a computer power supply into a lab grade 12v power supply. I made one works very well. Also meanwell power supply's are very reliable they make hundreds of different units and are reasonably priced. VanishingFreedom asked a good question in the comments below, Why not filter the actual vacuum line with a trap and keep the water and particulates out of the pump all together? A molecular sieve trap with some kind of particulate filter inline before the sieve should keep the pump from getting any water in it in the first place. Sounds reasonable to me has anyone tried that yet? Anyway thanks for sharing your video I just ordered a freeze dryer and decided I better get a head start on this stuff.

[@roamingfree6968]

Hey Brian 👋 ty for info & yes I do still watch your videos even though Jenny has left. 😭 Just ordered my FD today but since moving am holding off delivery until next year. (Bonus = extra time to pay off balance 👍) Have you heard about the DRY (NO OIL) pump? This is what I purchased. It is an upgrade with an additional cost. This pump is made by HR, in testing now & NOT YET AVAILABLE. Maintenance is virtually non existent. After approximately 1600 hrs, remove a few Allen screws & wipe off a tray with a wet, soapy rag. That's it, done. 💧😳

[@EpicenterBryan]

Yes, I'm aware of the oil-less pump. That is one expensive upgrade. Keep an eye on the channel ;) If I told you anything more... expect a visit from the Men in Black.

[@carlduke268]

Just wondering if you have an update for the new vacuum pump with the demister?

[@danielmahoney6220]

Bryan where did you but your spin on filter with the valve on the bottom I need to locate.Thanks

[@mauricegreer593]

Hi Bryan everything went together great. Got all the air out but the flow is barley evident when I look into the filler on top of the vacuum pump. Its barley dribbling into the pump.

[@favy086]

Hello! I'm very inexperienced but it seems too little water for four batches, where did the rest go? Does the harvest right have other ways to get rid of the water taken out from the food? Thanks!

[@ChrisSmith-rv5wb]

i know this is an older video but how are you finding that pump to work. i have the same pump and it barely moves any oil through it. mine barely drips out of the hose.

[@jonasthomander1230]

Thanks for this video. I am setting my oil filter system up today. Does it matter if the filter assembly is above or below the pump? Also, can anyone tell me where I can buy a new cover seal for JB DV 6E pump? JB will not sell to the public and referred me to Century Tool. I bought the gasket from Century, but it is too small and cannot be used. Any other suppliers?

[@Drizzik]

Bryan Looking for an updated list of items for the new HR pump..

[@EpicenterBryan]

I should work on that...

[@MichaelFetting]

What did the pump look like inside after 40 batches?

[@johnthompson2594]

I figured it out just had to open you information above, thanks

[@acustomer5651]

Could you make available the file used to make the bracket for the programmable timer , that you made on your 3D printer?

[@danielmahoney6220]

I have a power flush kit for my JB vaccum pump and its a spin on filter with a petcock on the bottom to drain the water. Does anyone know where you can buy the filters?

[@glennmack1784]

That's brilliant

[@Jayirvan]

Have you or anyone ever tried installing a Filter dryer water separator on the “Suction” side of the vacuum pump? Just curious..... would that help with the moisture contamination in the oil? Thanks so much for your help

[@FOLLOWINGALAMB]

I'm wondering the same thing.

[@swtmuzik1]

Hi Brian, we're driving through Oregon tomorrow, on our way up to Seattle! Would be great to see you all and your wonderful Epicenter! Are you open Saturdays?

[@EpicenterBryan]

Not normally, but I'll be here working on projects most of the weekend, so give me a call at the warehouse. Would love to meet a channel subscriber!

[@swtmuzik1]

EpicenterBryan it was so fun meeting you today! Thank you for the tour and all the info you provided! My hubby and I had such a blast with you. We appreciate the time you took out of your day to spend with us.

[@EpicenterBryan]

Awesome time meeting you folks today! Safe travels.

[@swtmuzik1]

Thank you!

[@keithnichols6403]

Great job! Thanks for sharing.

[@tulamanh3898]

Thank you for your video, it is the wonderful idea. Can i ask you a question, please? When you use this cycle for oil filter, how long do we change the new oil for freeze dryer?

[@W00lly001]

That makes matters allot easier for sure. I think I mite have to pull the trigger on a freeze drier next year

[@davesiegfried7179]

Bryan - I don't see the inspection results after you opened up the pump after 40 batches.

[@EpicenterBryan]

I've been using the oil-less pump for a year now. perhaps I'll get back to that for fun.

[@mediahiv]

Hi! One question more - when need to drain the water from the oil in the water filter. After 2 my cycles, it is not enough at the bottom of the water filter, but the oil level in the pump has risen by 0.7 inches.

[@johnthompson2594]

great information, Could I get the filter number? Can not see in video, thanks

[@valerijt4344]

Thanks! very useful project!

[@FOLLOWINGALAMB]

Hi Bryan, I'm planning to buy a Harvest Right freeze dryer any day now and I've been researching... The idea of changing the oil in the vacuum pump every run seems miserable to me, so your oil filter system looks like the best idea I've found. Thanks for the detailed video! I was wondering though... Why wouldn't just adding a particulate filter and water separator to the suction end of the vacuum pump prevent any damaging materials from ever getting into the pump? I've researched these and they seem to be commonly used on vacuum systems commercially everywhere. Is there some reason this wouldn't accomplish the same thing?

[@jerrysmith372]

FYI - the large dryer will process more food than the small and medium dryer.....combined. I've been running my large dryer and oil less pump almost 24/7 since Dec 2018 - best investment I've made for my prepping. Best prepping tool I own.

[@kellyvcraig]

Ditto that. EVERY piece of equipment worth owning (cars, trucks, backhoes, etc.) filters the oil and we, now, get up to 7,000 miles, or more, and hundreds of hours on the oil. As such, it just makes sense to have a filtration system available. Even more so for FD, since water is as big a problem as anything. Of course, this is not all on Harvest Right, since it's about the pumps.

[@mipoleon]

Are you still running this setup? If so how is it going today?

[@RH-es3wn]

I'm wondering too. Does the fuel pump hold up? Do batches run faster with removal of water from the pump during the cycle? Do you need to deep clean less often? Thanks for your informative vids.

[@wizzarin424]

Hello and thank you for showing us this system, I set it up on my own freeze dryer . I ran the system for two batches - but now my oil is all cloudy - I'm not finding any leaks anywhere, and the only differences I have is that I'm using an IFJF R12T fuel Filter/Water Separator 120AT NPT Zg1/4-19 for a diesel engine. I used this filter because at the bottom of the filter has a clear separate jar w/ drain that you can see how much water is in your filter before draining it. The problem is all the oil is just cloudy now. Not sure what the problem is. Any thoughts?

[@afctanks2010]

Could be the Oil you are using not separating from the emulsified water. Bryan recommends the Black Gold oil which is very good but I've found one that has never let me down it is used in Dairy farm vacuum pumps. Dairyland Vacuum Pump Oil. This oil is clear blue and really seams to keep the gunk buildup down inside the pump better also. And the best part it is usually around $15.00 per gallon at the Tractor Supply Co. with no shipping cost. I've also seen the "Retired at 40" guy recommend it. I always drain the oil and run it through the Harvey filter and use clean oil for each batch. But after watching this video of Bryan I might try making one of these filter systems. Or at least but a catch basin that can be fed into the Diesel filter then drain into a collection bottle. Harvey keeps plugging the filters with water that is trapped in the oil.

[@tjfears8177]

I also did this with the R12T filter for the same reasons as you. My oil got cloud on the second batch too. I don't think the R12T is meant for as much moisture as this system sees. Once the filter is saturated with water it stops filtering the water out. The oil is no good if it is cloudy. You can freeze it and run it thru a brita filter or Harvey and take the ice out. I was using auto parts vacuum pump oil. I am switching to dairyland and upgrading to the filter Brian used.

[@charlesdore9330]

How Much about is the timer and power supply ? a longer hose could go in/out of the FD Case contacting the outside of the Chamber - Free Oil Chiller ?

[@EpicenterBryan]

Power supply is $14, and the timer is $17. See the list here: theepicenter.com/blog/parts-list-for-harvest-right-pump-oil-filter/

[@hamltnblue]

Why not use a water trap/separator on the vacuum line to stop the water from getting to the pump in the first place?

[@EpicenterBryan]

You might want to check with vacoil.com they sell units like that. Last time I priced them the filters were in the $400 range.

[@Bigrignohio]

I take it that leaking valve is a gate valve and not ball? I have yet to run into a ball valve (of decent quality) that leaks.

[@EpicenterBryan]

The funny thing is that it's a ball valve. I'm not 100% sure if it leaks or if it holds back a bit of oil that drips out at some point later when it is in fact closed.

[@MM-gn4db]

I have a flush kit and have been told not to use it anymore. Is there a way to CONVERT it to an oil filtration system?? Thanks!!

[@EpicenterBryan]

I've never owned a flush kit so I'm not sure what they include and what could be re-used.

[@opknox1212]

Brian: I ordered all parts and will be in by end of the week of Jan. 1st. I know this is stupid question but where does the small washer go on the filter? Inside the cap or the part the end of the filter? I am not mechanically inclined but I do change filters on my truck and other vehicles. Sorry for the question but once I know I do not forget. I checked on the net and could not find an answer.

[@EpicenterBryan]

If you got the same filter and same housing I have you don't need that small gasket. Just set it aside.

[@opknox1212]

thank you and I thank you for doing all the research and solving the problems we all have. You're a joy to watch as well. I like people who are black and white.

[@EpicenterBryan]

Thanks Claudia, give me a call if you have any questions with that crazy project. When you get it running, I think you will like it. Make sure all your hose connections and clamps are tight!

[@fleebin2794]

Have you thought about designing your own freeze dryer? It would be great if Harvest Right had some stiff competition. Maybe they would put more thought into improving their “prototype” unit, and focus on better customer service.

[@bobdean9875]

Did you ever consider trying to get the water and contaminates out before they get to the pump? If you have I'd love to see what you came up with. I'm working on one now. I will put an in-line water separator/filter trap followed by a desiccant dryer made from a water filter housing followed by another moisture trap/filter. I"m considering adding your system to the other end also. My thought was to keep all these contaminates out "before" it gets to the pump The weak link in these freeze driers is all the moisture that is pulled into these pumps. Why they don't fix the problem is hard to figure out. I'm sure one reason is price.

[@EpicenterBryan]

It's all about cost. I did look into the filters VacOil.com sells. You might want to price them as well.

[@mediahiv]

Hi! i have two question ! how often to change the water filter. What is the right turn on the cleaning system - for example, work for 20 seconds and then turn off for 50 seconds . or I can turn on for 3 minutes and turn off for 20 minutes. Where is the truth :)

[@EpicenterBryan]

I haven't used that system for about a year since I got my Eagle (oil-less) pump. There wasn't any specific on/off ratio that worked better than any other. It all works great. The big thing is the pump gets warm if it's on all the time, but doesn't if the duty cycle is 50% or less...

[@mediahiv]

Thank you

[@kimbadgeley9050]

I need your help, I have only had my freeze dryer for 2 weeks, and I've done one batch that worked perfect and the second batch I had oil spill all over and it stopped the process and ruined the food I had in the freezer. My husband and I cleaned it all up and we started a new batch this morning. It's about to start vacuum and I noticed that the hose has about 4 inches of oil in it. Have you encountered this, is it normal or what should I do.

[@EpicenterBryan]

There are 2 things you can do. Open the drain valve on the freeze dryer for about a minute then close. That should be enough time for the oil to go back down. Or, unplug the pump from the outlet on the back of the freeze dryer and plug it into the wall for about 4 seconds. Then plug it back into the freeze drier. That will such the oil down. As far as oil spilling... Watch this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pIOXimmNr6mcntU

[@EpicenterBryan]

As far as having "stopped the process" - I need more info. Give me a call at Epicenter on Sunday or Monday and I might be able to help.

[@freezedrying1793]

Check the ball valve in the pump Sounds like the same issue Brian Had. it won't seat perfectly so it pulls oil up

[@1foxly]

Hi Bryan, I ordered the parts from Amazon and your lists shows 1/2 inch pipe , mine on the two pumps I own is 3/8 coming out the fill hole on the pump. Check sizes before ordering

[@EpicenterBryan]

I'll take a look at the list. You are the only person who has mentioned an error. It's totally possible since I bought all the fittings locally. It looks like about 20 people have picked up some of those parts. There is always a bit of confusion about OD and ID. I might have messed that up.

[@lntelford5607]

I also have an Eliminator vacuum pump with a 3/8" fill hole. The parts that created a problem were the 1/2" NPT Male/Female MPT/FPT MIP/FIP 3 Way Street Tee, the 1/2" MIP brass nipple and the 1/2" brass cap if you get the correct size street tee. BTW, I had a hard time getting the vinyl hose over the barbs on the fuel pump. I had to cut them off to even begin to get the hose onto them. Even then with hot water, I was barely able to get them on. If I did it again I would also shorten the 1/8" brass tube to 4" instead of 5". This allows the pump to set on level ground without the valve tipping the pump up slightly, but allow enough length to install the pipe with the tee and valve already on the pipe. IMHO. Thanks for a great hack. I totally enjoyed the build.

[@CrazyLakla]

I think this is the best oil hack I have seen, for the pump, as it is constantly filtering the oil. Only makes sense to do this. Thanks a lot. The fill hole fitting on the pump is 3/8's, I didn't bother to measure before I ordered, so now need to return some items. The fuel pump barbs are 5/16's. A person can use a couple 1/4 x 5/16 barb adapters on each side to solve that issue and get a couple short pieces of 5/16 tubing at a auto parts store. A 12 inch flexible grease hose will also work to draw oil out of the pump instead of using the rigid pipe. Less likely to get bumped and break. (Wish I could find one about 6 inches but have not had any luck) I am thinking of placing a glass fuel sediment bowl in line just before the filter to trap free water and should be able to see exactly how much water is there that needs draining. The big filter then becomes a cleaner and backup trap for water.

[@StevenGoodson]

The link provides a 403 error. Do you have an alternative way to access the parts list?

[@EpicenterBryan]

That's odd. The links worked for me just now.

[@casper3oaks]

Hey Bryan do you know if the fittings in your list will be ok with the new style pump or is there a separate list I may have missed. Looking to set this up asap. Thanks for all you do!

[@opknox1212]

Can I use a 4 to 7 psi 38 GPH fuel pump or is that to much? Thanks for any reply

[@EpicenterBryan]

That should work fine if you already have one. I think the one I used was 20GPH and in the same pressure range.

[@djwambach6192]

Are you still using this on the newer pump that still uses oil?

[@ImMissSudie]

We bought our freeze dryer November 2018, will the parts list work for this newer motor?

[@EpicenterBryan]

I don't think so. But for the parts that connect to the pump, you could take your valve and red plastic cap with you to the hardware store and have them match up the threads for those two connections.

[@ImMissSudie]

Thank you

[@sandilane1405]

my husband is making this so I won't have to deal with the oil. I'm using a brand new jb eliminator so I can rebuild it without HR control ...

[@EpicenterBryan]

I'm sure it will work well for you.

[@DrewanNicholson]

hey Bryan! Love your videos. I was curious about the refrigeration in the Harvest Right, thinking about buying one buy am worried about problems after the warranty period with the freezer. Do you know what refrigerant is used? And is there any info on what pressures are in use in the freezer?

[@cgurr6698]

The Large machine takes 7.5oz of R 410a The Medium machine takes 6oz of R 410a The Small machine takes 4oz of R 410a

[@josephhgoins]

Does the freeze dryer itself have a water filter on the vacuum line or does it just let all the moisture go into the pump?

[@EpicenterBryan]

The freeze dryer does not have a water filter in line with the pump. However, the frozen drum captures most of the moisture - not all. Out of a gallon of captured water formed on the drum for example, about a 1 TSP end up in the pump.

[@jeremydice4107]

Bryan Is there any reason this filter system wouldn't work the newer HR 7cfm pump?

[@EpicenterBryan]

I'm sure it will work the same way. The trick will be figuring out the threads for the filler and the drain. They could be metric. I'll have to look into that...

[@EpicenterBryan]

Should work fine, but I'll have to look into what threads those fittings would need to be...

[@jeremydice4107]

Was away ,working ,thanks for the reply .Do you have a store front ,or is it strictly internet only, I'm from Central Oregon,I would love to stop by and pick your brain sometime .

[@EpicenterBryan]

Next time you are in town feel free to drop by. You can find us on google maps. Give us a heads up call prior to arriving though.

[@tbaine]

Is great idea.. But i think I'd just run the oil filter cycle between batches instead of cycling the oil while the drying is running its batch. I don't believe it wouldn't take long to filter a complete pump full of oil.

[@jryer1]

@Bryan - Awesome sir, thank you so much, a big help! Question; Is the initial oil put into the pump while the circulation fuel pump is on, and you keep filling until the proper fill level line is reached?

[@EpicenterBryan]

The easy thing to do is run the re-circulation pump while filling the main pump. It all equalizes.

[@jryer1]

@EpicenterBryan - Thanks Bryan. We've been looking for the longest time how to separate the water from the vacuum oil. We do distillation, and this really helped a lot.

[@EpicenterBryan]

Glad that helped you!

[@gvhiii]

Aloha Bryan great Video using your design and another you tubers I built one of these filter units. My main filter uses a goldenrod filter with a see-thru bowl and drain valve. Makes it easier to see the sediment in the bottom. Here’s my question this happen before after two runs each time I ran the filter for about 10 minutes everything seem to work great. Then I notice during my 3rd batch drying that the torr was at 498 I watched it for about 3 minutes I timed it and it never changed. I then ran the filter pump while the vacuum pump was still running for about 2 minute and I notice it went from 498 torr to 405 torr and still going down after I shut off the filter pump. Any thoughts.

[@EpicenterBryan]

Yes. The filter is doing it's job. The filter removed some water which increased pump efficiency. Just what you want. Cooling the oil also makes a big difference. I'll be doing a video on that topic...

[@2009brian]

Will attachments to old pump work for the new 2018 branded harvest right pump?

[@EpicenterBryan]

I don't think so. I'll look into what those fittings are and perhaps provide 2 parts lists...

[@2009brian]

EpicenterBryan that would be great. I have taken the plug and cap off. Going to store to see if I can find pieces that will fit. If I do, will reply with what I find. Thank you again

[@2009brian]

EpicenterBryan the drain is 1/4 flare, the top unsure what, have not found anything that the plug fits into for sizing

[@2009brian]

The plastic oil plug on the branded Harvest Right pump is a metric. Size of M18x1.5 BSP threads. The drain on the bottom is a 1/4” flare

[@arkadiuszlabuz6561]

Has any one found the 3 way tee with M18x1.5 BSP tread to work for top of the new pump on Amazon ?

[@opknox1212]

Brian, do you still have to take the back cover off, after so many batches, to clean the inside out? I clean the inside about every 5 batches to make sure I do not assume it can take more batches since I am doing so many different foods.

[@EpicenterBryan]

I'm not sure. I've run over 40 batches with that set up since installing it so It's about time to open it and take a look. Stay tuned.

[@opknox1212]

Brian, on an average, when would you think the filter would need to be replaced? I realize you may not know but I ordered two replacement filters due to running the dryer almost 24/7 except for the defrosting time.

[@EpicenterBryan]

I replaced it at about 30 batches as I recall. Mainly because I wanted to see what was inside and how much stuff. My thought was to cut it open for a video but decided it was too much work. That filter is built like a tank.

[@captmikemm]

@@EpicenterBryan Aircraft Spruce sells a good filter cutting tool. (We have to inspect aircraft oil filters when we change oil on our plane).

[@heathscheibmeir8011]

Hey Brian, interested in building this, but when I go to your blog in the video description, I can see the list of parts, but when I click the link to the Amazon list you compiled it only takes me to my own personal Amazon wishlist. Any way you can share that list with me if I gave you an email address? Or somehow correct the link to your Amazon list for this project?

[@ckgurr]

Suggestion: Put the pump inline before the oil filter. Drain the water with the fuel pump running, that will prevent filling the filter with air unless the vacuum pump is sucked dry. the water will also drain much faster (maybe too fast)

[@EpicenterBryan]

Good point. There are some other reasons why I went this way. The first is I wanted to make sure only clean oil goes through the pump. Also, many of these pumps shut down is there is any back pressure on the outlet. They will suck, but only if the back pressure is low. The reason is many of these are used in carbureted engine applications where there is a float and needle valve that shuts off gas input to the carb when the float level is at max.

[@ckgurr]

Good points, I didn't think of that.

[@KirkDickinson]

Over three years down the road. How has this held up over time? Also curious why you didn't put the pump before the filter to push the oil through the filter instead of after the filter. Awesome level tinkering!!

[@W00lly001]

How many Batches do you suppose you will get per filter ?

[@EpicenterBryan]

I'm not sure. I did replace it at 30 batches so I could look in it and see how much gunk it captured. It was amazing. My intent was to cut it open until I realized the housing is steel. Too much work so I tossed it. The filters are not too expensive. If you look at that list we put together, I think it was around $12. The filter wasn't having any issue with flow restriction or anything so I'm sure it could have been used much longer. It was just curious...

[@W00lly001]

At $11 dollars per filter way worth the money not to have to drain the oil to filter it.

[@EpicenterBryan]

I think so too. But it's not a deal breaker. The nice thing is that I have been able to see what comes out. And I discovered that I can actually dislodge and get extra stuff out by turning on the re-circulation pump even the next day and wiggling the pump side to side 20 degrees and back and forth. It's amazing how much stuff gets into these pumps...

[@bluewolf4915]

I already want to do this and I haven't even bought my FD yet. 😂

[@johnthompson2594]

And timer info, thanks

[@johnwiemers2259]

Hey, Bryan. Do you know how many microns the filter is rated at? It looks like it is doing a pretty good job. Not sure all diesel fuel filters are equal.

[@EpicenterBryan]

Looks like it is 15 microns.

[@johnwiemers2259]

EpicenterBryan thanks!

[@DanPollino]

Hey Bryan, great video! So, if you drained the water from the filter after every batch, would you still have to drain the system completely every four or ten or whatever? Thanks!

[@EpicenterBryan]

I don't know. I've been testing the other 2 new pumps for about 6 weeks and so haven't used the auto filter recently. Here are my thoughts. I tried to drain water on the 1st, 2nd and 3rd batch. I got practically nothing out even on the 3rd batch. I think the filter hold water until it can't any longer (gets saturated). At that time, water falls out and collects in the bottom. From then on, I think you could drain water more often but I wanted to see if I got more by fully draining. Will have to hook it back up and play with it some more. Right now I'm running the "eagle" pump - there is no oil with that pump.

[@DanPollino]

Thanks Bryan. I purchased a diesel fuel / water filter with a clear bowl so I could see the particulates and water at the bottom. It's a Dahl 100. A little more spendy than yours but I wanted to be able to see the accumulated water. I also purchased a peristaltic pump that's 120 volt to simplify the operation. My HR should be here this week and I'm super excited about starting it up. I'll let you know how the filter set-up works out. Great idea by the way! And thanks so much for all the videos!

[@EpicenterBryan]

Looks like an awesome filter! I love the idea of being able to see the water in the bowel. Did you buy a used one on E-bay or somewhere?

[@DanPollino]

No I got it new at Grainger. I know it's spendy but I wanted to protect my investment and the way I looked at it, even with the peristaltic pump and fittings it was a quarter the cost of the oilless pump.

[@EpicenterBryan]

I like the way you think. I haven't looked at what kind of threads are on the new 7.2cfm HR pump so let me know if they turn out to be metric. It would be fun to play with...

[@appalachianwanderseeker]

Wow! Clever!

[@frozenright]

Very nice rig Bryan ! Do you freeze the drain jar and reharvest the floating oil?

[@EpicenterBryan]

I don't go through the trouble of freezing, but I do run it through my Harvey Filter (just don't allow the water to go through the filter).

[@sbender3787]

Genius

[@EpicenterBryan]

Just lazy ;)

[@pattymoore5548]

Great idea if you are an engineer. Way too much maintenance for me. More of a plug and play no maintenance person here. I dislike things that you constantly have to putz with. But very creative. Leads to better mouse traps!

[@GasNBullets]

Come up with a kit and sell it to other users! But make a noise supressor for the pump.

[@EpicenterBryan]

I have the parts listed on the blog page so people can buy what they can't find. Buy local if you can... I don't want to get involved in a kit because like I said it will void your pump warranty. That needs to be the users decision - especially since it's experimental.

[@dlv0187]

You can buy a kit at freezedryeraccessories.com. I bought one but have not had the time to use it.

[@crazycarnivorelifejourney]

you are awesome

[@hrdknox2000]

Dude! Bryan! That's impressive! Did this idea just come out of your imagination? Also, I'm curious as to whether or not you're a ham radio operator. If so, I'd love to try to make contact with you!

[@nancyphillips619]

Amazing!

[@NightSky777]

our instructions said to change oil every 4-5 cycles, ...but our green pump seems ineffective at pulling vacuum below 500 mTorr unless we ensure the oil is spotless and waterless, ..so we change it after EVERY cycle. Love your set up especially with that pump timer. Here is another gentleman's set up. Looks like he drilled/tapped directly into the main housing. I have the same pump as he, which is different than yours. kzbin.info/www/bejne/bJXZh5l_dqx2Y6M

[@hughjanus1135]

It’s called a cold trap

[@EpicenterBryan]

Have you priced one?

[@johnkillen588]

me thinkest the pump should be in the lowest point in the system.

[@Buttermilkjug]

Will you freeze dry a baseball card?~

[@EpicenterBryan]

Sure. Want to send one? I sold all mine at a garage sale back in the '70's for a buck. Rats!

[@wjbradshaw49]

Buy a good tripod so you dont have to hold the camera yourself.

[@judd_s5643]

I’m certain Brian would be receptive of “gift” from you.

[@insidepages4150]

Way over engineered. Ever heard of the KISS approach.

[@jeffputnam8554]

Great info. Thanks for sharing.