Gecco Dropmaster DM12 User manual

OPERATION
MANUAL

Dropmaster
(Patented)
MODEL DM12
OPERATION MANUAL
By GECCO, Inc.
23 Baker Drive
Factoryville, PA 18419
Phone: 1-866-GECCO-00
Fax: [phone]
Table of Contents
I. Introduction page 2
II. Safety Instructions page 3
III. Operations Procedures page 4
IV. Water Calculations Sheet page 5
V. Troubleshooting page 6
VI. Maintenance page 7
VII. Model Information – options/replacement parts page 8
VIII. Warranty page 9 & 10
IX. Maintenance information for Vapor Oil Pump page 11-16
*KEEP THIS DOCUMENT FOR FUTURE REFERENCE*

I. Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the Dropmaster DM12. The Dropmaster was originally designed to
remove excess water and odor from fire sprinkler systems prior to repairs and change outs.
However, the Dropmaster DM12 can be used on numerous other applications such as boilers,
heat exchangers, air handlers, chillers, and a variety of closed loop piping systems. This manual
mostly details the Dropmaster being used on fire sprinkler systems; however the same basic
principles can be applied to the aforementioned applications.
The Dropmaster DM12 is a rugged, durable tool built with components rated for continuous
duty use. In certain applications, the Dropmaster is capable of 24/7 operation. By following the
maintenance guidelines in this manual, your Dropmaster should provide years of service and
significant return on investment.
Every Dropmaster goes through a rigorous series of quality control tests in our manufacturing
facility. Our patented fail-safe vacuum system is set by our highly trained technicians to 10” Hg
to ensure the system will not damage grooved couplers. The Dropmaster is built on a custom
designed hand cart, with 10 inch pneumatic tires. This design allows the Dropmaster to fit
easily through most standard doorways and maneuver around job sites. Each Dropmaster comes
with 20-foot-long durable, high quality intake and discharge hoses. Replacement and custom
length hoses, as well as replacement parts, can be order directly from Gecco Inc.
The Dropmaster DM12 has several safety features you should be aware of. The 3/4 horsepower,
high torque – low amp motor has manual thermal overload protection. Additionally, each unit is
supplied with a 20’ GFI protected, 12-gauge power cord. Extension cords should never be
used with the Dropmaster. The vacuum pump and drive motor feature metal safety guards that
must be in place during operation. The Dropmaster DM12 has a newly redesigned noise
suppression muffler system which has been factory tested below 80db.
Your Dropmaster DM12 should always be transported securely, in the upright position. An
optional hitch mounted carrier can be purchased for the Dropmaster. The hitch mounted carrier
makes transporting the unit easier and saves valuable space in your service vehicle.
The Dropmaster system works by drawing a regulated 10” Hg vacuum on fire sprinkler systems
and process piping prior to making repairs and change outs. By eliminating excess water and
odor, repairs and change outs can be made in a neat, clean and timely manner. By eliminating
the need to use buckets and tarps, decreasing set up and clean up times, the Dropmaster can
significantly reduce job time and increase profit. Your Dropmaster DM12 is safe to use with
most antifreeze solutions and can be used for winterization of various piping systems.
The team at Dropmaster prides themselves on their products and world class customer
service. Please read this manual thoroughly before operating your new Dropmaster
DM12. If you have questions or concerns regarding our product, please contact us and we
will gladly direct you through the initial set up, use, and maintenance.

II. Safety Instructions
1. Read all instructions before operation. Retain instructions for your permanent records.
2. Disconnect power source before servicing or cleaning unit.
3. Do not permit unauthorized personnel to operate the unit at any time.
4. Do not pull alcohol or other combustible materials in the vacuum tank.
5. Never operate vacuum at pressures or speeds in excess of those recommended by
manufacturer.
6. Some elements on the unit may be quite warm in normal operation. Do not touch or
permit combustible materials to come in contact with these components.
7. Do not touch moving parts while the Dropmaster is in service.
8. Technician operating the Dropmaster should utilize eye and hearing
protection at all times.
9. Unit should be operated in a clean and well-ventilated area.
10. The Dropmaster is to be used for siphoning water or non-combustible antifreeze from fire
sprinkler systems, boilers, heat exchangers, chillers, or similar types of piping systems.
11. Use caution when transporting Dropmaster unit, make sure unit is properly
secured in transporting vehicle. Transport unit in the upright position.
12. Please note separate safety instructions are enclosed for the vacuum pump used in the
Dropmaster. This must be reviewed before operating Dropmaster.
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III. Dropmaster Operating Procedures
Before beginning, check the oil level in the reservoir, check for loose fittings, connections, and
bolts, make sure barrel drain plug is in place, and check that the basket strainer is clean and free
of debris and build up.
1. Follow normal procedure for shutting down and draining sprinkler system before connecting
the Dropmaster.
2. Connect the Dropmaster to proper electrical source (120 v 20 amp) and turn unit on.
3. Check the Fire Department Connection to make certain tight-fitting caps are in place if
above the alarm valve.
4. Close all outlets from the sprinkler system other than the one the Dropmaster will be
connected to.
5. Connect the suction side of the Dropmaster with suction valve closed, to your choice of
outlet and connect the discharge hose to a suitable drain.
6. Turn unit on and open suction valve, allow the Dropmaster to pull a vacuum on the system.
Check vacuum gauge for proper reading of 10Hg. (Please note that the vacuum reading can be
slightly affected by temperature and elevation)
7. Open an outlet (Inspector test drain, auxiliary drain or sprinkler outlet) on far side of system
from where work is to occur. Allow the Dropmaster to remove any trapped water from the
mains.
8. When water has been removed close the outlet that was opened in step 7.
9. Begin working. Always start at the farthest point and work back toward the unit.
10. If at any point the Dropmaster gets flooded see Trouble Shooting step #5.
11. Drain barrel daily.
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IV. Water Calculations
Please Note
Utilize this worksheet to perform calculations at project site to determine residual water that
will be captured by Dropmaster tank before placing Dropmaster in service.
1 Gallon of water = 8.344 lbs.
Pressure Vacuum
1 psi = 2.036 inches H.G.
5 psi = 10.18 inches H.G.
10 psi = 20.36 inches H.G.
15 psi = 30.54 inches H.G.
Water in Pipes By Size
Pipe Size Schedule 40 Schedule 10
1” per foot .045 .049
1 ¼” per foot .078 .085
1 ½” per foot .106 .115
2” per foot .174 .190
2 ½” per foot .248 .283
3” per foot .383 .433
4” per foot .660 .740
6” per foot 1.501 1.649
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V. Trouble Shooting
1. IF NOT RUNNING:
Verify GFI cord set is plugged into an active outlet—the indicator light will be on.
Make sure main electric switch is in the on position. Green electric motor should be
operating.
2. IF NO VACUUM:
Verify ½” tank drain plug is installed.
1” suction valve should be in closed position.
Vacuum gauge should indicate 10 hg vacuum. Note: vacuum reading can vary slightly
depending on operating altitude and temperature.
Check for loose nuts on tank flanges and check barrel ring bolt. Caution: do not over
tighten barrel ring bolt since this can cause distortion of the ring and barrel lid.
3. IF LOW OR NO VACUUM AT END OF SUCTION HOSE:
Clean out 1” wye strainer—remove 3/8” plug and then remove large bushing and pull out
strainer basket. Check for any blockages.
4. IF GUAGE READS 10” Hg AND THERE IS NO SUCTION ON END OF
SUCTION HOSE:
With 1” valve open reset anti flood device.
5. TO RESET ANTI-FLOOD DEVICE:
Unplug unit and remove ½ drain plug from back of tank, remove all water from tank,
lightly tap the tank and a “thud” should be heard. The anti flood is now reset. Replace ½”
drain plug and proceed.
6. IF MOTOR IS NOT RUNNING:
Motors are manual thermal overload protected.
Allow 30-40 minutes for unit to cool.
To reset/push rubber button until you hear a loud and distinct click
Use proper electrical supply (120v 20amp)
7. IF NO WATER DISCHARGE:
Please call manufacturer.
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VI. Maintenance
Daily:
• Check for any unusual noise, failure to build vacuum, overheating, vibration and correct
before damage of a serious nature can develop.
• Check and add oil to vacuum pump reservoir, if necessary. The “U” shaped hose on the
reservoir acts as a sight glass. Oil level should be ¾ of the way up the hose.
• Flush and clean storage tank after daily use.
• Unit should be stored indoors in a clean, dry location.
• Check and clean strainer. Remove the strainer basket and it is free of debris or sludge.
Replace the basket if needed.
Weekly:
• Keep compressor clean for efficient operation.
Monthly:
• Check and tighten all bolts as required. Check air connections and joints for leaks –
tighten if necessary.
As required:
• If vacuum level drops below 10”Hg it may be necessary to flush the vacuum head. Please
follow the procedure found on page 13.
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VII. Model Information
-8-
Replacement parts as well as custom
made hoses in lengths up to 100 feet
can be ordered directly through
Dropmaster.
An optional hitch mounted carrier for
the Dropmaster DM12 is also
available. The carrier works with any
standard 2” receiver and features a set
of fold down ramps for easy loading
and transportation of your
Dropmaster.
Dropmaster by Gecco Inc. is the
industry leader in innovative, time
saving tools. Please check our website,
www.Dropmaster.co, for information
on our other products.
Dropmaster DM12
Features
•Deisgned and built for 24/7 operation, all of
the Dropmaster’s components are rated for
continuous duty.
•Powered by a ¾ hp, high torque, low amp
motor.
•1/3 hp discharge pump – capable of pumping
38gpm.
•Factory set, fail safe vacuum relief valve –
maintains 10” Hg vacuum.
•10” Pneumatic tires – easily rolls over most job
site obstacles.
•1” Suction and discharge hoses – allows set up
virtually anywhere.
•Supplied with a 20’ GFI protected 12 gauge
power cord.
•Factory tested and approved for Uponor Pex
type a.
•Can be used on all types of process piping
including PVC and CPVC.
•Safe for use with most antifreeze solutions.
•Removes contaminants and debris from
refrigeration lines.
•Can be used on a variety of closed loop piping
systems.

VIII. Warranty
Dropmaster warrants to the original purchaser thereof (the “Original Purchaser”) that the
Dropmaster and parts thereof furnished by GECCO, Inc. – (“GECCO”) will, when properly
installed, used operated and maintained by the Original Purchaser, be free from defects in
material and workmanship for a period of Ninety (90) Days from the date of delivery to the
Original Purchaser. Any Dropmaster that is found not to meet these standards by GECCO
within this ninety-day period will, at GECCO’s sole option, be repaired or replaced without
charge. Any defect or condition that has been caused by misuse, unauthorized use or
modification, or abnormal conditions of operation or maintenance, will be repaired by GECCO
or its designee at GECCO’s then current repair charges. In this case, upon the request of the
Original Purchaser, GECCO will submit an estimate of the repair cost to the purchaser prior to
making the repairs. Any defective Dropmaster or component thereof should be returned
promptly to GECCO at the sole expense of the Original Purchaser. Any loss or damage during
shipment of a defective Dropmaster or component thereof shall be at the Original Purchaser’s
sole risk.
The motor and compressor are warranted One Year (1) from the date of delivery from the
manufacturer.
Owner responsibility includes providing normal maintenance as required by Gecco,
Inc. This warranty does not apply (1) if the pump(s) has been damaged due to
improper use, neglect, accident, misuse, and exposure to extremities of dryness or
humidity (2) if pump(s) has been serviced or modified by other than Gecco, Inc.
authorized personnel.
No other warranty expressed or implied is given. The repair or replacement of
the pump(s) is your exclusive remedy. Any implied warranty of merchantability or
fitness is limited to the declaration of this written warranty. In no event shall Gecco,
Inc. be liable for consequential or incidental damages. Some states do not allow the
exclusion or limitation of this warranty so the above exclusions or limitations may
not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may have
other rights, which vary, from state to state.
Discharge water pump has a ninety (90) day warranty.
This warranty does not cover product failure resulting from:
1. Normal wear.
2. User abuse, including immersing non-submersible products, dents or
damage to barrel
-9-

WARRANTY EXCLUSIONS. EXCEPT AS EXPRESSLY PROVIDED HEREIN, GECCO
MAKES NO WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED BY OPERATION
OF LAW OR OTHERWISE WITH RESPECT TO THE DROPMASTER INCLUDING, BUT
NOT LIMITED TO, ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR
FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. THE SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY OF
THE ORIGINAL PURCHASER FOR BREACH OF GECCO OF ANY WARRANTY SET
FORTH HEREIN SHALL BE LIMITED, AT GECCO’S SOLE ELECTION, OF THE
REPAIR AND REPLACEMENT OF THE DROPMASTER OR ANY COMPONENT
THEREOF. GECCO NEITHER ASSUMES, NOR AUTHORIZES ANY PERSON TO
ASSUME FOR IT, ANY ADDITIONAL LIABILITY OR RESPONSIBILITY IN
CONNECTION WITH THE DROPMASTER AND NO AGENT, EMPLOYEE OR
REPRESENTATIVE OF GECCO HAS THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR EXPAND THE
WARRANTIES SET FORTH HEREIN AND NO SUCH MODIFICATION OR EXPANSION
SHOULD BE RELIED UPON BY THE ORIGINAL PURCHASER.
The warranty shall not apply to a Dropmaster unit or to any component thereof if it has been
subjected to operations in excess of design limitations, negligent maintenance, abuse, or
damage by alteration not expressly authorized in writing by GECCO.
LIMITATION OF LIABILITY.To the extent allowable under law, GECCO’s liability for
consequential and incidental damages is expressly disclaimed. GECCO’s liability in all events
is limited to and shall not exceed the purchase price of the Dropmaster.
We undertake no responsibility for work done or expense incurred in connection with repair or
replacement except on specific authority. We accept no liability hereunder, whatsoever, for
consequential damages of, or for the negligence of others. The foregoing warranties are
exclusive and there are no warranties, which extend beyond the period set forth herein. These
express warranties are in lieu of all other warranties whether written, oral or implied and
GECCO, Inc. hereby expressly excludes the implied warranties of merchantability and fitness
for a particular purpose.
WARRANTY CLAIMS:
All warranty claims shall be made to GECCO, Inc., 1-866-GECCO-00, and shall be supported
by satisfactory evidence in respect of conditions herein noted. For a warranty claim please call
GECCO for further instructions. Any part which is determined to be defective in material or
workmanship and returned to GECCO as instruction will be, as the exclusive remedy, repaired
and replaced at GECCO’s option.
-10-

Maintenance Manual
For
Vapor Oil Pumps
Model – DM12
IMPORTANT
READ BEFORE INSTALLATION
OF THIS UNIT
- 11 -

INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
WIRING
All wiring for the installation of this unit should be done by a licensed electrician according to
National and Local Electrical Regulations.
SINGLE PHASE MOTOR UNITS
All single-phase motors are wired for proper direction of rotation. Unless otherwise requested
motors are wired for low voltage service.
VAPOR OIL PUMPS
Use a 10W-30 Oil for all Conde Vapor Oil Pumps. When starting new vapor oil pumps, fill oil
reservoir above the fittings in which the wicks are inserted. This will give the Pump extra oil for
the first two hours of operation.
When refilling, fill to just below oil wicks.
Capacities:
Model 3………..1 quart Maximum.
VACUUM RELIEF VALVE
The vacuum relief valve is factory preset at 10in/hg, do not exceed.
OPERATIONAL LIMITS
Max Vacuum (Continuous) 15IN/Hg
Max Vacuum (Intermittent) 25IN/Hg
-12-

FLUSHING INSTRUCTIONS FOR
CONDE VAPOR OIL PUMPS
It may be necessary to flush your Conde Vapor Oil Pump to remove any gum or varnish
buildup inside the pump that causes the vanes to stick in their slots. This is a simple
maintenance operation and should be one of the first steps when troubleshooting a loss of
vacuum in the system.
1. Remove the longer oil tube, which goes from the reservoir to the vacuum.
2. Be sure the exhaust is directed away from the motor. Be careful to contain any mist or spray.
3. Use kerosene or diesel fuel fluid for flushing process. While the pump is running under
vacuum, simply insert the tube into the cleaning fluid and allow the pump to draw the fluid in.
Alternately let air into the tube with the cleaning fluid. It can take up to 4 ounces of cleaning
fluid to clean the pump.
4. In the same manner draw in about 5 ounces of oil to complete the flushing process.
5. Replace the oil tube to its original location. The unit is now ready to return to service.
Note: Under certain circumstances it may be necessary to repeat the flushing procedure.
-13-

-14-

ASSEMBLY
1. Before assembly deburr all parts with a fine file. Determine correct rotor rotation (see
drawing). Check the vane slots for free movement of vanes.
2. On model 2 Pumps start assembly with side of housing that has the dowel pin holes on the
lift side of the housing. On model 3, start on side with dowel pin holes on the right. Note: dowel
pin holes are always on the exhaust side of the pump.
On oil lubricated pumps press the shaft seal in place and place the paper gasket in position on
the housing. Install the endplate with the six hex screws and finger tighten. Drive the 2 dowel
pins in place then tighten hex screws securely.
3. Insert rotor into housing according to rotor rotation and rotation arrows on the pump. (The
pump must be assembled in the same position. This will align the rotor with the endplates and
housing.)
4. Install the slinger over shaft. (green disk)
5. Press bearing on the shaft using a bearing installation tool or arbor press. IMPORTANT—
press on the inner race of bearing only. Pressing on the plastic seal may cause damage to roller
bearings.
6. Invert pump assembly and install the vanes into the slots.
7. Invert 2
nd
endplate as previously done but do not tighten screws and leave dowel pins out.
Install bearing and slinger.
8. Apply downward pressure to rotor shaft so that the rotor bottoms out on the 1
st
endplate,
while pressure is applied tighten hex screws evenly. Drive in dowel pins.
9. Shim the pump and install new bearing covers.
IMPORTANT—The pump should spin freely by hand when complete, if any binding is noticed
repeat step 9.
10. Install cooling fans. Install all safety guards prior to starting unit.
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