Coralife Super Skimmer Issues

[jubbin2001]

So I have a SS 125 for my tank that has been running fine, and now all of a sudden I can't keep air going through the venturi line. I have cleaned it out (even the whole pump), changed air tubing, and bored out the venturi hole just a tiny bit and nothing works. Once I blow into the line whoa are micro bubbles everwhere, but after I stop, nothing. I had to hook up an old Wisper air pump just to keep the thing working. The intake pump itself is only 2"-3" below my water line so I know that's not the issue. Honestly I think it's just a crappy pump. So I am thinking about replacing the pump with something better. Right now I am thinking about getting a Ocean Runner PH2500 designed for their 1000 multi skimmer, or a Sedra 9000. Anyone have thoughts on this or ever change out pumps on their skimmer? I am at a loss right now as to what to do....I will probably be dumping it and get an Octopus or a Euroreef, but right now the funds only allow for a different pump. Let me know your thoughts.

 

[veni vidi vici]

Have you checked the impeller?
Also try taking off the silencer and see if that helps,sometimes the silencer will get clogged with salt,dirt.....

 

[jubbin2001]

Did it all, and still nothing. I know I got a good deal on it compared to retail...but I really wish I would have went a different direction

. Hindsight is always 20/20.

 

[jubbin2001]

Opinions on my possible solutions? I can't keep my air pump hooked up forever....it casues the skimmer to crash after a few hours and then I get nothing but water flowing through it.
1. Replace the pump with a Sedra 3500 designed for the ASM G2. I can get one for $90 brand new shipped
2. I was thinking if I was putting $90 towards a new pump, should I maybe limp along for a week and look at getting a Reef Octopus 150 NW? My LFS swears by them, but I don't know much about them.
3. Should I hold out a little longer and look at getting an ASM G2? I haven't heard much about ASM personally.
4. If the G2 is a possibility should I maybe go with a MSX 160? I have heard these are good skimmers and is the another "great" choice by my LFS, again I have no experience with them.
I have been trying to read as much as I can, but now it's down to crunch time, as I don't know how long my "patch" will work with my skimmer. I need some resove in the near future or I fear my livestock might end up suffering for it. I would love to invest in a Euro Reef, or an Aqua-C....but I just can't make it work....my budget is quite tight given our current economic plight, and I need a less expensive alternative for the time being.