Vacuum pump powering options

[S.S.S]

Hi guys,
We have a surge Alamo vacuum pump we picked up for a good price it has a direct drive 5.5hp electric motor on it. But we don't have electricity where pump will be and not a generator big enough to run it. What's the best option to buy gas engine and set it up on there or buy bigger generator? If gas engine is best option what size would I need? Thanks, Jon

[madmapler]

Most guys go with a gas engine instead of a generator. Probably more efficient. You need to consider the pump rpms though . Most gas engines are governed at about 3500rpms so you may need to reduce the speed with a pulley set up. You can also get gas engines with 2to1 reductions built in. Another thing to consider is converting from gas to propane. Its pretty simple to do and will save a lot of fuel expense. If that pump runs on a 5.5hp electric then you'll need an 8hp gas or better. Another benefit to running pulleys is you can add an idler that you can engage and disengage to make engine starting easier if its a hard turning pump(especially in cold weather). If the pump turns easy enough then thats probably not an issue.