Vortech MP40w to MP40wES upgrade review

So this week I got my much anticipated Eco Smart driver upgrade for my pair of mp40w propeller pump/wave makers.

The upgrade process wasn't as smooth and polished as I'd hoped for.

Overall I would give the upgrade process a 3/10.
I would give the mechanical design a 1/10 and that's being generous.
I would give the functionality of the new drivers a 9/10, -1 for the funky auto-tune not being what I expected, but none the less functional and resulting in what it should.

First off the good:

Shipping was fast.
Everything arrived intact (one RF module was loose) and well packed.
Once they were up and running worked as they should.


Now for the more complicated part.

First off on opening the boxes I noticed there are no new manuals included with the "upgrade" package. With the added features and functions of the ES driver I would at least expect an addendum to the MP40w manual.

There was a single sheet "upgrade instructions" sheet that felt hastily put together with spelling errors and missing information that I would have included such as an image showing correct placement of the wireless module. One of mine came detached and if it weren't for my technical skills (and a second unit to compare to) I could have very easily installed the module upside down, potentially damaging the unit.

After disconnecting my motor cord and plugging it into the new ES driver board I discovered two rather significant problems:
First is that there is very little room in the ES case for the excess wire on the motor cable. I am not comfortable with the amount of pressure the "ball" of wire puts on the driver board when the case is properly closed.
Second the molex style connector on the old cord is too large to fit in the case. I had to use wire cutters and trim plastic from the actual connector. The instructions DO suggest that some previous versions may require the removal of the "clip" but no where did it suggest I would have to cut into the actual connector. If you're not familiar with the molex style connectors this might be a problem, potentially leading to cut wires, broken connections, etc.

Once I had the cable secured to the driver board and the case closed properly I screwed it all together. I would really prefer to see either proper screws for plastics or metal threaded inserts to secure the case. The fine thread "machine" screws that are included strip easily and should not be used for this application. However, once the unit is assembled and assuming none of the screws stripped, there's no reason they shouldn't work. There's no reason to re-open the case, so it's a minor technical issue.

After the case is on you have to attach the knob to the front panel. The knobs are.... poorly made. One of them would not stay on the shaft and required a small shim (I used a small piece of wire insulation) to hold it in place. The other knob is snug, but would not engage the "key" on the shaft and so turned freely past the set "stops" on each end of the rotation. Looking at the knob I saw the "keyway" obstructed with some excess plastic from the casting process. A little work with a small "burr" bit and an exacto-knife solved it. Again, not something one should have to do, but I am resourceful and have tools.... so rather than wait for replacements I could fix it... not everyone will have that option I'm afraid.

Also, the previous versions cases have holes in them for screw mounting the driver case to the inside of a cabinet. These are replaced by "hook and loop" tape for the ES driver. I have never liked Hook-and-loop (Velcro) tape. In my dry climate the adhesive dries out and fails within a week of application. It does not stick well to wood, and it is generally not waterproof - all three will be an issue I'm afraid. I will probably end up modifying the case by gluing it to a sheet of plastic and screwing that into my cabinet. Again: I _HATE_ hook-and-loop tape. Especially on expensive parts. The adhesives _WILL_ fail. It's only a matter of time, usually less than more.

Anyways, once the units were assembled and powered up I went and downloaded the new manual. The main manual problem is that so much of it relies on color coding to understand modes and feedback. I do not have a color printer, nor would I want to print out 40 pages in color anyways. I would really appreciated color abbreviations on _ALL_ the illustrations and diagrams. Or better yet include a printed manual or even an addendum to the mp40w manual with the upgrade kits.

So in summary I would say the upgrade process and overall physical properties of the ES driver didn't really live up to expectations, but the end result is that the driver works, the ES modes work, and now that it's done and programmed I am happy with the performance and features.

I know I have an early version of a new product and I sincerely hope that with enough user feedback Ecotech will make a few physical changes to the ES diver case, and include manuals.

As always this is merely my experience and opinion. Your miles may vary. I am not a lawyer. Do not pass GO, do not collect $200. Rules and participation may vary. Void where prohibited by law. Review furnished by Reviews Unlimited in NY, NJ, WY, and OR. Tax may apply. Keep your head, hands and arms inside the vehicle at all times.

-Doug

 

Also, the ES modes really require 3 pumps. I only have two. ES mode still works, but it's designed for 3 or more pumps. I will probably get an MP10w ES for the "back wall" pump when I can afford it.

Nowhere in the Ecotech literature that I've seen does it mention the need for 3+ pumps for full ES functionality.

 

So what modes do you need three for?

I don't like the feed mode and not being able to turn off...so i was going to get the ES.... but instead I decided to upgrade to Apex and my WXM module got here today. Now all I need is an Apex.

You have a 90g don't you?

Very good write up. Great to expose problems..... and your avitar STILL freaks me out.

 

Great review, thanks. I am considering upgrading my drivers as well at some point. Like you said hopefully these are early versions and Ecotech will sort it out. They have in the past AFAIK so I imagine it's just a matter of time. Glad you managed to get it to work though.