Originally published April 2007

Go with the Flow!

Keeping your Dual Wheel Trimmer draining properly.

It’s hard to believe that something so simple as a clogged drain hose can cause so much damage to your model trimmer. Proper drainage must be a high priority if a long, trouble-free life is expected from your Wehmer machine. If you hear the sound of your wheels sloshing in water, stop and find out why.  Besides splashing the trimming technician, high internal water levels will damage your drive belts, shaft and bearing, and even the hubs. A typical repair for just these items can run over $500.00, and if the motor has been effected - double that amount.

Water inside your machine can only be the result of two things - too much water coming into the machine through the spray tube, or not enough water exiting through the drain hose. Incoming water flow is adjustable via the flow regulator on the left-hand side of the machine. There should be just enough flow to cause a mist coming back off the wheel with the trimming table removed. If the flow is restricted, or the models are dry when you are trimming, the ground plaster will form a paste and readily clog the drain opening.

Regarding restricted drainage, make sure the drain hose is running “downhill” as it exits the machine. We have often seen drain lines that are routed in a fashion where the flow is directed upwards - creating a poor drainage scenario. Elevating the machine can solve this problem. A few wooden 2 x 4’s (painted to prevent water absorption) will do the trick. Better yet, the Wehmer Drain Tray #1126 (pictured above) raises the machine 1-7/8” and also allows removal of the drain plug in the front of the machine - doubling your drainage capability. With the widespread use of diamond wheels, there are few opportunities to examine the drainage area in the base of the machine unless a routine maintenance schedule is established. This area often collects chunks of plaster and finer debris that can cause drain blockages. Remove the front cover of your trimmer and check out this drain area at least every quarter year.