Step 1: Choose the Right Installation Location

Select a suitable installation site. A well-chosen location helps ensure safe operation and easier maintenance.

• Choose a spot where maintenance staff can easily reach the pump, valves, and connections.
• Avoid exposure to dirt, extreme temperatures, humidity, or corrosive liquids.
• Set your pump on a level surface. This will support steady fluid flow through the pump and reduce wear caused by uneven operation. 
• Plan suction and discharge piping to avoid strain on pump connections. Use flexible tubing where possible to absorb vibration and correct any misalignment.
• Metering pumps are gravity-fed. Ensure the pump is positioned lower than the supply source to maintain continuous flooding during start-up and operation.

Step 2: Align and Secure Your Pump

Now, align your pump properly and fasten it securely. This ensures smooth operation and protects pump components from premature wear caused by movement and vibration.

• Use the mounting holes on the pump’s baseplate to bolt it down. This keeps the unit stable and minimizes vibration during operation.
• For JAECO Pak (plunger) models: Check alignment of the coupling between the motor and the pump and readjust as needed.
• Never use the pump to support supply or discharge piping. Make sure all suction and discharge lines are independently supported.
• Install protective guards over any exposed moving parts, like couplings or rotating shafts. This is a critical safety measure and should never be skipped.

Step 3: Prepare for Operation

Before connecting your metering pump to the system, take time to confirm that it’s ready for operation. These checks will help prevent avoidable damage during start-up.

• Check the motor nameplate for voltage, phase, frequency, and current. Verify that these match your power supply exactly. 
• For JAECO Fram (diaphragm) models: Remove the solid cap plugs on top of the pump housing so that the two cavities are exposed. Save these solid plugs for servicing the pump in the future. Check that the oil level is within 1” of the top of the pump. Add EP-150 if needed. Install the vented cap plugs supplied with the pump.
• For JAECO Fram models: Diaphragm units include a red fill plug on top of the gear reducer that must be removed to allow proper ventilation. Operating without venting can cause oil seal failure.
• For JAECO Pak (plunger) models: Remove the red pin from the gear reducer oil fill plug.
• For all models, check the gear reducer oil level. Use EP-150 and fill to the height of the uppermost ⅛”  pipe plug on the end of the reducer opposite the input shaft. Oil should flow gently from the opening when full.

Step 4: Connect Suction and Discharge Lines

Now connect both the suction and discharge piping in turn to supply and drain the pump.

Suction Side:

• Use a line that’s at least one size larger than the suction valve connection (i.e., ¾-inch pipe for a ½-inch pipe).
• Include a strainer with a fine mesh screen in your suction line to help trap debris before it enters the pump.
• Add a shutoff valve in the suction line to allow for routine maintenance without draining the full system.

Discharge side:

• Connect your discharge piping so it matches the size of the discharge valve. 
• Avoid any strain on the pump connections—flexible tubing helps handle thermal expansion or any pump misalignment.
• Consider installing a relief valve near the discharge port, especially on plunger pump models. Set it to open at 20–25% above your normal operating pressure to protect against over-pressurization.
• For diaphragm pumps operating at lower pressure, a back-pressure valve may be required to maintain accuracy and prevent siphoning.

Step 5: Prime the Pump and Bring It Online

Now, prime the pump and prepare to bring it online. This step removes trapped air and allows the pump to operate as intended.

• Open the suction line shutoff valve to let fluid flow into the pump. Ensure the suction line is fully flooded and that air can escape through the discharge side.
• For JAECO Fram models: Set the capacity control knob to zero before powering on. This prevents sudden pressure buildup during startup.
• Switch on the motor and let the pump run for a few minutes. Watch for a steady flow and listen for unusual sounds that might indicate a problem.
• Slowly adjust the capacity control knob to 100% and then back down again. Cycling through the range several times helps bleed air from the system and stabilize internal oil flow, especially in diaphragm models.
• For JAECO Pak models: To adjust capacity, stop the pump, loosen the locknut and turn the adjusting screw until required capacity is indicated on the capacity scale. Retighten the locknut after adjustment and before restarting the pump. Run the pump at increasing capacities up to 100%. 
• Once primed and running smoothly, check oil levels in both the gear reducer and the pump housing. Add oil if needed, using the proper type specified by the manufacturer.

You are now ready to connect your pump to your system.

Step 6: Managing Pressure

Pressure control helps protect your metering pump and promote accurate flow. Without it, the system may experience erratic dosing, siphoning, or equipment damage. Every metering system should include a relief valve to prevent over-pressurization. 

JAECO Fram pumps have an adjustable internal relief valve. Other systems should have an external relief valve installed in the discharge pipe.

For JAECO Fram Pumps: The internal relief valve is an adjustable spring-loaded poppet valve. To reach it, remove the left-threaded plastic cap on top of the pump housing, as viewed facing the diaphragm head. The valve can be adjusted by turning the adjusting screw clockwise to increase the set pressure and counter-clockwise to decrease it.

• Once online, adjust the internal or external relief valve to release at 10% to 25% above your system’s normal operating pressure. 
• If your pump isn’t the only pressure-producing device in the loop, install an external relief valve. Internal valves may not provide enough protection alone.
• If your system pressure is below 30psi, install a back-pressure valve. This helps metering accuracy and prevents siphoning through the pump when it’s idle.

Step 7: Test the Pump for Leaks and Proper Operation

Once connected to your system, test your metering pump again to verify it’s functioning correctly. This should confirm that your system is sealed, the flow is accurate, and the pump is ready for continuous use.

• Inspect all suction and discharge connections, valve fittings, and seals for leaks. Tighten fittings if necessary, but never overtighten—this can damage threads or seals.
• For models with oil-filled housings, check the oil level while the pump is running. Add oil if needed to maintain the manufacturer-recommended level.
• Observe the discharge line for steady flow. Ensure that readings match expected values. If the pump isn’t producing flow, recheck priming and suction conditions.

You are now ready to begin normal operations.

Step 8: Maintenance Tips After Installation

Routine maintenance keeps metering pumps working at peak performance. Here are a few best practices to follow:

• Inspect the oil level in the gear reducer every 60 days. Drain and replace the oil annually using our recommended EP-150 gear oil.
• Apply light hypoid grease to each fitting once a week. Give the packing area one shot of grease weekly to keep seals lubricated and reduce wear.
• Look for leaks, unusual noises, or unexpected pressure drops. These may point to alignment issues, worn packing, or air in the system.
• Periodically verify that the pump is delivering the expected flow rate. Log adjustments to the capacity control so you have a clear operating history for troubleshooting or audits.