Kasco VFX Manual
2HP-5HP VFX AERATOR MANUAL 1
MOVING WATER FORWARD, SINCE 1968
Operation &
Maintenance
Manual
Document number 884172
Document version 2021.2.0
VFX
DECORATIVE
AERATOR
8400, 2.3, 5.1, 5.3
3020379
ANSI/UL 778: 2016
Ed.6+R:22Feb2017
CSA C22.2 #108: 2014 Ed.5
2HP-5HP VFX AERATOR MANUAL 1
715.262.4488
TABLE OF CONTENTS
QUESTIONS?
Safety First...............................................................................................................................2
Unit Specications & Pattern Size ........................................................................................3
Tools & Supplies Needed .......................................................................................................3
Parts Included .........................................................................................................................4
Unit Installation Instructions ................................................................................................9
Maintenance Recommendations........................................................................................11
Troubleshooting Tips............................................................................................................12
Warranty ................................................................................................................................13
Non-Warranty Repairs .........................................................................................................14
Repair Contact Form ............................................................................................................15
2HP-5HP VFX AERATOR MANUAL 2
IMPORTANT: PLEASE READ THIS MANUAL AND SAVE FOR FUTURE REFERENCE
Moving Machinery
WARNINGS:
Shock Hazard
SAFETY FIRST
• Please read and follow these important instructions to help ensure your safety and the quality
performance of your Kasco equipment.
• Use caution when dealing with any electrical and/or moving equipment.
• Under NO CIRCUMSTANCE should anyone enter the water with the electrical equipment plugged in and/
or in operation.
• Kasco Aerating Fountains are intended for use with a Listed control panel having a GFCI protected
receptacle, or eld wiring terminals and disconnect switch, or a timer with a disconnect for use with
a GFCI receptacle. Control panels MUST be installed by a qualied electrician. Ground Fault Circuit
Interrupters (GFCIs) should be tested upon each installation and every month thereafter to ensure
proper operation.
• Single-phase units are supplied with an internal grounding conductor and/or a grounding-type
attachment plug. To reduce the risk of electrical shock, be certain the unit is properly connected to the
Kasco-supplied control panel (refer to the instructions included with your control panel).
• 3-phase units (2.3VFX, 2.3HVFX, 5.3VFX, 5.3HVFX) require a startup test after wiring to ensure proper
rotation of the impeller. If the impeller is rotating in the opposite direction, the unit will not perform
properly and internal damage to the unit may occur (see 3-phase startup procedure on page 10).
• NEVER run the unit out of the water. This will damage the seals and create a dangerous situation for the
operator.
• Use extreme caution around water, especially cold water, as in spring, fall, and winter, which poses a
hazard in and of itself.
• NEVER lift or drag the equipment by the power cords. If you need to pull the unit to the side of the pond,
use the anchoring ropes.
• Do not use boats that tip easily for installation and follow all boating safety rules and regulations,
including wearing a PFD (Personal Flotation Device).
• Do not use waders in deep ponds/lakes or ponds/lakes with drop-os, drastic slopes, or soft bottom
material.
• Control panels must be installed by a qualied electrician.
• For more information regarding your control panel instructions, refer to your control panel owner’s
manual. A control panel must be installed a minimum of 5 feet (3m in Canada) from the body of water
unless separated from the body of water by a fence, wall, or other permanent barrier that will make
the unit inaccessible to persons in the water. A complete list of control panels can be found in the
Accessories section of kascomarine.com.
During otation operation, water is pulled from 360° around and directly below the unit. Keep these
areas clear of debris as much as possible to decrease frequency of screen cleaning.
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2HP-5HP VFX AERATOR MANUAL 3
UNIT SPECIFICATIONS & PATTERN SIZE
• (3) Anchors or stakes for installing unit
• 208-240V electrical supply near pond on a post with room for mounting the control panel
• (4) #10 x 1’’ long or longer screws for mounting the control panel
• 9/16’’ socket with extension and ratchet
• 7/16’’ socket and ratchet or combination wrench
• (3) 12’’ pieces of 1’’ galvanized pipe for weighting ropes (optional)
7/16’’combination
wrench
9/16’’ socket
(extension not shown)
Model Pattern Size Voltage Operating
Amps
Locked Rotor
Amps
Control Panel
Connection
Unit
Connection
Height Width Single-Phase Units
8400VFX 8’ 32’ 208-240 11 40 Hardwire C-85 Hardwire C-85
5.1FVFX 9’ 34’ 208-240 20 97 Hardwire C-95 Hardwire C-95
3-Phase Units
2.3VFX 8’ 32’ 208 7.5 40
See control panel instructions
5.3VFX 9’ 34’ 208 16 100
2.3HVFX 8’ 32’ 460 3.6 24
5.3HVFX 9’ 34’ 460 7.8 49
TOOLS & SUPPLIES NEEDED
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2HP-5HP VFX AERATOR MANUAL 4
PARTS INCLUDED
ID Description Qty Part #
A 3/8-16 hex head screw 3 820093
B 3/8” lock washer 3 566230
CVFX upper oat screen 3 284165
D Float, single phase 1 See table below
E L-bracket, large VFX 3 284170
F 1/4” lock washer 6 840537
G 1/4”-20 x 1” hex head screw 6 451130
H VFX unit assembly 1 See table below
I Bottom screen, large aerator 1 990162
J Bottom screen clip, large aerator 3 223240
K 3/8”-16 x 1/2” serrated hex head screw 3 820092
L 3/4” mesh screen (not pictured) 1 990170
M Cable tie (not pictured) 8 415038
N Dielectric grease (not pictured) 1 341300
Unit Size H (Part #) D (Part #)
2 HP 8400VFX 284102
2 HP, 3-phase 2.3VFX 284103
5 HP 5.1VFX 284105
5 HP, 3-phase 5.3VFX 284105
Unit Assembly Table
A
B
C
D
E
G
F
H
I
J
K
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2HP-5HP VFX AERATOR MANUAL 5
ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS
1. Attach the oat L-bracket (E) to the unit assembly (H) by tightening the 1/4’’ lock washer (F) and 1/4”-20
x 1’’ hex head screw (G) with 7/16’’ socket or combination wrench. Repeat for all three legs on the unit
assembly.
2. Place the oat (D) over the unit assembly so that it rests on the L-brackets. Ensure the three channels
on the inside of the oat line up with the threaded hole in the L-brackets, and the dedicated power cord
channel on the underside of the oat is near the cord connection on the unit assembly.
H
F
G
Dedicated power
cord channel
D
E
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2HP-5HP VFX AERATOR MANUAL 6
ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS (CONT.)
3. Tighten the upper screen section (C) to the ledge on the top of the oat using the 3/8”-16 x 3’’ hex head
screw (A) and 3/8’’ lock washer (B) through the hole in the L-bracket using the 9/16’’ socket wrench. Re-
peat for all three upper screen sections. Socket extension may be required.
A
B
C
4. On the underside of the oat, line up the (3) bottom screen clips (J) and start threading in the (3) 3/8”-16
x 1/2’’ serrated hex head screws (K), but do not tighten down at this time. Be sure the clips can slide back
and forth freely.
Allow movement
J
K
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2HP-5HP VFX AERATOR MANUAL 7
ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS (CONT.)
5. Wrap the at mesh into a cone shape by overlapping both vertical edges by approximately 1 inch and
aligning the top and bottom edges of mesh.
6. Use three cable ties evenly spaced along the vertical seam to secure the mesh at the top, middle, and
bottom.
7. Center the stainless steel bottom screen inside the mesh cone with approximately 2 inches of mesh
above the steel screen's large ring.
8. Use three cable ties evenly spaced around the large ring to attach the mesh to the steel screen.
9. Use two cable ties placed opposite each other on the small ring to further secure the mesh to the
screen.
57
8
69
Dedicated power
cord channel
J
10. Lift the unit and slide the bottom oat screen (I) with the mesh over the can and up to the bottom of the
oat, allowing the unit power cord to exit between them in the dedicated channel.
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2HP-5HP VFX AERATOR MANUAL 8
ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS (CONT.)
11. Slide the clips toward the center and over the bottom screen so that one of the vertical bars is between
the two anges on each clip as shown. Tighten all three serrated hex head screws to secure the screen
to the bottom of the oat, being sure not to pinch the power cord. 9/16’’ socket or combination wrench
required.
Tighten all
3 screws to
secure oat
screen
Vertical bar in be-
tween clip anges
Providing strain relief on the cord helps ensure that
its weight and any strain placed on it in the water will
not cause the oat to tilt or cause damage to the unit.
If your Kasco cord comes with a strain relief kit at-
tached, attach the available link to the oat-side knot
in the mooring rope, as pictured here.
Cord Strain Relief
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2HP-5HP VFX AERATOR MANUAL 9
UNIT INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
Note: Before installing 3-phase units (2.3VFX,
5.3VFX) into the pond, please refer to 3-phase start-
up procedure on page 10.
Use ropes to position the fountain in the desired
location in the pond or lake. Anchor the ropes or
secure them to the shoreline so that they are free of
slack, but not tight. To prevent twisting of the unit
due to motor torque, place the anchor at least 3
feet from the oat for each foot of depth (Ex. a 6 ft.
deep pond would require an anchor 18 ft.. horizon-
tally from the oat).
Alternate Installation
In ponds where the water level uctuates signi-
cantly, a small weight may need to be suspended
at the midpoint of the rope to take up any slack
caused by a drop in water level (1 foot of 1’’ gal-
vanized pipe works well). The weight should be
light enough so that the fountain can rise as the
water level rises. This weight can also help hide the
anchoring ropes by sinking them further below the
surface.
After unit is installed in the water, connect the power cord to a properly installed Kasco control panel (C-85,
C-95, etc.) with built-in ground fault protection according to the instructions and electrical schematics in-
cluded with the panel. Follow all local and national electrical codes for unit and control panel installation;
consult a qualied electrician or service person if needed.
Power cord Kasco power
control box
Correct anchoring
Incorrect anchoring
Anchor rope Secondary weight
Normal water level
Low water level
High water level
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2HP-5HP VFX AERATOR MANUAL 10
3-PHASE STARTUP PROCEDURE
If a Kasco Control Panel is not provided, please refer to the following warnings:
When inherent overheating protection is not provided: use with approved motor control that matches
motor input in full load amperes with overload element(s) selected or adjusted in accordance with control
instructions. Utiliser un démarreur approuvé convenant au courant à pleine charge du moteur et dont les éléments
thermiques sont réglés ou choisis conformément aux instructions qui l’accompagnent.
When inherent overheating protection is provided: use with approved motor control that matches motor
input in full load amperes. See table below. Utiliser un démarreur approuvé convenant au courant à pleine charge
du moteur.
The motor input in full load amperes is the marked value or the service factor amperes shown on the
nameplate.
3-phase 208-230V 2.3VFX 5.3VFX
Full load amps 7.5 16
3-phase 460V 2.3HVFX 5.3HVFX
Full load amps 3.6 7.8
Control panels must be installed by a qualied electrician.
If unit is connected to a circuit protected by a fuse, use a time-delay fuse with this pump.
You must verify motor rotation before installing the unit in the water. 3-phase Kasco units will run in a
clockwise rotation when looking down at the propeller. Keep clear of the propeller while verifying rotation.
Air will be blowing out (up) of the pump chamber when rotating in the correct direction. If a Kasco 3-phase
panel is supplied, follow the instructions included with the panel in addition to the steps below.
Electrician:
1. Verify all screw terminal connections are tightened to specied torque setting prior to energizing the
panel.
2. Verify the electrical service (voltage and phase) matches the control panel and aerator nameplate rat-
ings. Refer to the control panel instructions and schematics for installation details.
3. Verify all switches, circuit breakers, and motor starters are in the OFF position
4. Connect electrical service to the control panel as shown in the electrical schematic that came with the
panel.
5. Connect the aerator power cord to the panel as shown in the electrical schematic.
6. Set the motor starter overload to the FLA rating on the aerator nameplate.
7. Pump rotation: The pump rotation is clockwise when looking down at the propeller. Apply power to the
control panel. Turn on the 15amp control circuit breaker, and motor starter.
8. Momentarily turn the Hand-O-Auto switch to Hand. This will run the aerator. Do not run the aerator for
more than a few seconds on shore. If the rotation is not correct, disconnect and lock out power from the
control panel. Swap any two of the aerator power cord wires in the panel. This will cause the motor to
reverse direction. Reapply power to the panel and verify the rotation is clockwise.
9. Once rotation is veried, with the power disconnected and locked out again, continue with installation of
the aerator on page 9.
L1-L2 Volts L1 Amps
L1-L3 Volts L2 Amps
L2-L3 Volts L3 Amps
Current unbalance should not exceed 5% at full load.
Record the following data while the
unit is operating in the water under
load:
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2HP-5HP VFX AERATOR MANUAL 11
The following maintenance procedures can be utilized to ensure many years of quality performance from
your Kasco equipment and reduce the need for more costly repair work.
PROPER INSTALLATION: Proper installation of Kasco equipment will include a power source with ground
fault protection. The control panel included with the equipment has built-in ground fault protection for
both the fountain and the lighting kit. Ground fault interrupters are a safety feature that can also alert you
to electrical leaks in the equipment. It is extremely important to test the GFI upon installation and every
month thereafter to ensure proper operation. If you have repeat, consistent trips of the ground fault device,
the equipment should be disconnected and removed from the water. The power cord should be inspected
for damage, and you should contact your distributor or contact Kasco Marine at 715-262-4488 or sales@
kascomarine.com for further instructions. A complete list of control panels can be found in the Accessories
section of kascomarine.com.
OBSERVATION: Operating equipment should be observed on a regular basis (daily, if possible) for any
reduction or variation in performance. If a change in performance is observed, the equipment should be
disconnected from power and inspected.
WINTER STORAGE: In regions where there is signicant freezing in the wintertime, the equipment should be
removed from the water to protect it from the expansion pressure of ice. Aerators may keep some amount
of ice open, but when water is thrust into the air it can make the existing ice thicker. Storage over winter is
best in a location that is out of the sun and cool, but above 32° F. Store unit upside down if it will sit for a
long period of time to ensure continued oil lubrication of seals; units that sit upright for many months or
years have a greater likelihood of seals drying out.
CLEANING: Aerators should be removed from the water at least once per year (at the end of the season
in cold climates) to clean the exterior of the system, especially the stainless-steel motor housing (can) that
dissipates heat into the water. Any algae, calcium, or other build-up will become an insulator that blocks
heat transfer and may lead to overheating and damage. In warmer regions, the unit should be removed and
cleaned at least 2 – 3 times per year. In most cases, a power washer is sucient if the unit and algae are still
wet.
SEAL AND OIL REPLACEMENT: This is a sealed motor assembly, and seals will wear out over time (similar
to brake pads on a car). Replacement of the seals and a change of oil after three years may add longevity to
the operation of the motor, saving you the cost of more expensive repairs. In warmer climates where the
aerator runs for a majority of the year or greater, it is wise to replace seals more often.
SACRIFICIAL ANODE: A sacricial anode is supplied on the shaft of all VFX Model aerators for protection
from corrosion and electrolysis. The anode should be updated/replaced if reduced to half the original size
or if white in color. Corrosion from electrolysis is more commonly associated with saltwater or brackish wa-
ter, but as a matter of precaution, it is important to periodically check the anode in all installations (at least
every two to three months).
Seal replacement and all other repair services should be performed by Kasco Marine or a Kasco-trained Au-
thorized Repair Center. Any alterations or changes made to Kasco units by an unauthorized source will void
the warranty. This includes tampering with the unit, power cord, and/or control panel. Contact Kasco Marine
Center.
MAINTENANCE RECOMMENDATIONS
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2HP-5HP VFX AERATOR MANUAL 12
The following is provided to help diagnose a probable source of trouble. It is a guideline only and may not show
all causes for all problems. For additional troubleshooting help, contact your local distributor or visit kascomar-
ine.com for additional guidance.
“My aerator trips the ground fault interrupter in the C-25, C-85, or C-95.”
This is the most common symptom of several possible problems. To correctly diagnose the problem, you will
need to collect more information. A Ground Fault Interrupter (GFI) breaker that trips can indicate an electrical ser-
vice problem, water contamination in the unit and/or cord, bad breaker, control box problems, motor problems,
etc. Try to nd out the answers to these questions before you contact Kasco to narrow down the problem:
• How long does it take to trip the breaker?
• Does it always take the same amount of time to trip?
• How many times has it tripped?
• Have there been any electrical problems in the area recently?
“My aerator seems to run slowly.”
This can also be a symptom of several possible problems. There could be an electrical problem where the unit is
not getting the proper voltage. This could also indicate a problem with the motor of the unit, which needs to be
looked at by an Authorized Repair Center. Check that the unit is receiving the proper voltage, and, if so, contact
Kasco for further steps.
“My aerator hums, but will not start. When I spin the prop with a stick, it starts up.”
(single phase units only) This indicates a problem with the Starting Capacitor. Each Kasco aerator is equipped
with a Starting Capacitor to get the unit going when it is rst plugged in. If it is operating but not spinning and can
be started by spinning the prop with a stick, the Starting Capacitor needs to be replaced by an Authorized Repair
Center.
“My aerator turns itself o and back on without the timer and without tripping the GFI breaker.”
(single phase units only) Each Kasco aerator has a Thermal Overload built in that will turn the unit o when it
overheats. Once the unit has cooled down, it will start back up. If you are noticing these symptoms, the unit
should be unplugged immediately because the Thermal Overload will continue to turn on and o until it burns
out and damages the motor. The unit should be unplugged and taken out of the water to nd the cause of the
problem. The problem could be one of many, such as, low water levels, build-up on the unit to prevent heat
dissipation, something inhibiting the free rotation of the shaft, etc. If something is caught in the unit or there is a
build-up of algae, calcium or organic matter on the unit, remove the debris and, if caught early enough, the unit
should be ne. Contact a Kasco representative before restarting the unit.
“My aerator ow seems to uctuate and/or be less than usual.”
This can occur because of a few dierent reasons. Most of the time, this symptom is caused by the unit being
clogged with debris. A mat of weeds, many leaves, plastic bags, etc. can clog up the unit and cause it to be starved
of water. If the unit does not have the proper amount of water, the ow or pattern will uctuate up and down
and look sporadic. If you are seeing these symptoms, unplug the unit and clean away the debris that is clogging
up the screen. Another possibility if these symptoms are noticed is a chipped or damaged prop that is causing
the unit to wobble and not pump properly. When the unit is unplugged, check the prop for damages and replace
if damage is found.
“The GFI breaker trips randomly and sporadically. Sometimes it is a few hours of operation, other times it can be
days or weeks.”
This is referred to as a Nuisance Trip. This usually occurs when the unit is installed a great distance from the
initial electric service on the property where the ground stake is placed. It is caused by either induced current in
the ground wire or a base voltage dierence due to soil pH levels. To resolve the problem, contact an electrician
and install a local grounding stake. This may eliminate the induced current and any base voltage dierences. This
problem can also be caused by a bad breaker or receptacle or having unbalanced incoming voltage lines.
TROUBLESHOOTING TIPS
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2HP-5HP VFX AERATOR MANUAL 13
WARRANTY
Warranty period:
8400VFX, 2.3VFX 2.3HVFX, 5.1VFX, 5.3VFX, 5.3HVFX = 3-year Limited Warranty
Kasco® Marine, Inc. warrants this aerator to be free from defects in material or workmanship under normal
use and service (excluding ropes, power cord, and propeller). The Kasco Marine, Inc. obligation under this
warranty is limited to replacing or repairing free of charge any defective part within the warranty period
from the date of shipment. Customer shall pay shipping charges for returning the unit to Kasco or an Autho-
rized Repair Center.
THIS WARRANTY IS IN LIEU OF ANY OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, AND ANY OTHER OBLI-
GATION OR LIABILITY WHATEVER ON THE PART OF KASCO MARINE, INC. AND IN NO EVENT SHALL KASCO
MARINE, INC. BE LIABLE FOR ANY SPECIAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES.
Warranty is void if:
• The equipment is not maintained properly according to the Maintenance Recommendations supplied in
this Owner’s Manual.
• The equipment is returned for repair without the power cord
• The unit, control panel, or power cord are altered in any way from original shipment. Cuts in the power
cord are not covered under warranty.
• The equipment is damaged by unauthorized tampering.
• The sacricial zinc anode around the motor shaft shows signicant deterioration (not maintained ac-
cording to Recommendations supplied in this Owner’s Manual)
Warranty Claim Procedure: The best method for establishing warranty period is by keeping your original
receipt and registering the equipment online at kascomarine.com under the Support section.
Once warranty coverage has been established, the unit may be sent to Kasco Marine or any Kasco Autho-
rized Repair Center for evaluation and repair. See Repair section for more information regarding warranty
repair procedure.
Kasco only accepts complete assemblies for warranty repair. We must receive the power cord
and all other components with the motor as originally assembled. Kasco will bill the customer
to replace any missing parts necessary for repair. It is not necessary to return the control
panel, mount, or other parts with the motor assembly, unless specically requested by a Kasco
representative.
Please attach a repair form with the shipment. The repair form must include a name, physical
address (for return delivery of the repaired unit), daytime phone number, and an e-mail address
for correspondence regarding the warranty claim.
Any expedited shipping method for the return of the unit is at the customer’s expense. Kasco
Marine will return units repaired under warranty at our expense via ground freight within the
continental United States.
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2HP-5HP VFX AERATOR MANUAL 14
Most failed equipment can be repaired at substantially lower costs than replacement with new. If your
aerator requires repair and is no longer covered under warranty, please contact Kasco Marine or your local
distributor for available options. Please ship according to the instructions on the previous provided.
Kasco Marine does estimates on repairs at the request of the customer. The request for estimate should be
included in the letter that accompanies the returned unit and must include a daytime phone number and/
or e-mail address. We will contact the customer with a total after the unit has been evaluated but before the
work is performed.
All estimates that are rejected for repair will be destroyed unless otherwise directed by the customer. Re-
jected equipment can be returned at the customer’s expense for shipping and handling charges.
Billing: All non-warranty repairs will be returned and billed to the customer unless otherwise directed. Kasco
Marine accepts Visa and MasterCard credit card payments. Kasco Marine will call for credit card information
upon completion of the estimate at the customer’s request.
Please see the Support section of kascomarine.com for more information about warranty and repairs. Con-
Authorized Repair Center.
NON-WARRANTY REPAIRS
715.262.4488
Kasco Marine
800 Deere Road
Prescott, WI 54021
CONTACT US
3020379
ANSI/UL 778: 2016
Ed.6+R:22Feb2017
CSA C22.2 #108: 2014 Ed.5
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2HP-5HP VFX AERATOR MANUAL 15
Company name
Contact name
First name Last name
Address
Street
City
State
ZIP code
Phone number
Primary Alternate
Email address
Preferred method of
contact (circle one) Phone Email
Purchase order
number
Additional product
information
Serial Number Cord Length
Information for Repair Technician
Was this unit used in a chemical treatment or wastewater
application? (circle one) Yes No
Additional notes
Kasco Marine
800 Deere Road
Prescott, WI 54021
Attn: Repairs
• Kasco requires that all equipment sent for repair MUST be
accompanied by this form and marked to Repairs attention.
• Unit should be cleaned before shipping.
• Kasco is NOT responsible for shipping damage accrued in
return shipment.
• It is the responsibility of the customer to ship and pay freight
to Kasco.
REPAIR CONTACT FORM
Note: Contact information should be that of the person or company to contact for repair information.
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