Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can my company buy direct from Sidewinder Pumps?
A. Sidewinder Pumps operates through a distributor network domestically and internationally. Please visit our Distributors Link on the left of this page to locate your closest distributor. If you are in a state/region/country that does not have a distributor, contact Sidewinder Pumps direct.

Q. How do I become a distributor?
A. Contact the Marketing Director at Sidewinder Pumps for information on qualifications for distributorship.

Q. What should I use for the discharge line?
A. Manufacturer recommends not using poly tubing, copper tubing, or seamed tubing as a discharge line. Manufacturer recommends using 316 SS seamless tubing rated for maximum discharge pressure of the specific model pump being used. Use of incorrect material may result in discharge line failure leading to personal injury, death, and/or compromise to intended injection objectives. Good engineering practices and the manufacturer recommend placement of a properly sized relief valve on pump discharge line for safety purposes.

Q. What does the letter mean after the pump model number?
A. See below question.

Q. What does the letter mean after the first numbers in the model number?
A. The letter designates which production series the pump is from. As Sidewinder made design changes to the pump, we added the letter after the model number to identify the pump series. This enables Sidewinder Pumps to identify the engineering design of that pump and what components make it up. In November 2005 Sidewinder changed its policy on the order of where the letter is placed in the model number (see newsletter Change in Pump Model Description on the News & Information page). Before November 2005 it was placed at the end of the model number, after that date the letter is now placed after the base model number. See the Printable Model Number link at the top of the Pump Selection Guide page. It basically ensures that the end user gets the correct repair components for their pump.

Q. What seal do I use for Methanol?
A. The following seals are the most common Sidewinder Seals for Methanol service:
* Buna O-ring for pressures under 2,000 PSI
* Teflon Carbon Filled Graphite Uniseal
* Polyblend Uniseal

Q. Can Viton be used for Methanol?
A. No – Viton is not compatible with Methanol.

Q. Can I use Marvel Mystery Oil, transmission fluid, motor oil, hydraulic oil, glycerine, etc instead of the Sidewinder Lubricate?
A. Sidewinder Pumps recommends using only Sidewinder Lubricant. It is a Silicone based synthetic that is compatible with the majority of chemicals in the market. A “Plunger” pump by design, carries a minuscule quantity of lubricant into the fluid chamber with each stroke. Research shows that Sidewinder Lubricant will not interact with the majority of chemicals in use. Using other lubricants may produce side effects such as “stringing” or “gelling” of the chemical causing potential problems. Use of other lubricants will void Sidewinder warranties.

Q. When do I use a one piece Uniseal versus an O-ring seal?
A. O-ring seals are most effective for operating pressures under 2,000 PSI. The Uniseal style is most effective for operating pressures above 2,000 PSI. Uniseals will operate at pressures under 2,000 PSI, but depending on their material of construction – there may be some “weepage” experienced. The higher the pressure the more effective the Uniseal becomes.

Q. How do I determine which seal will work best with the chemical I am pumping?
A. First check with your chemical salesman. If they cannot make a suggestion – check the News & Information link to the left of this page. If it is not listed, contact Sidewinder with the full chemical product name and chemical manufacturer name. If Sidewinder Pumps does not have the chemical listed in our library, we will contact the manufacturer for their suggestion and then advise you which of our seals will work.

Q. I want one pump that can be used for all the various chemicals I use, is there one that can do this?
A. There is no “Magic” pump that can do all you need to do – however Sidewinder can make a recommendation on materials that will do about 90% of what you need. A pump with a ceramic plunger with our Technseal will cover most applications including methanol, most corrosion inhibitors, and chemicals that have aromatic solvent and Xylene content.

If you have a question please contact us: info@sidewinderpumps.com