I'm currently using a 5" elbow to a 5" to a 4" reducer and a 4" to a 3" reducer then my rubber 3"......could I just use a 5" to 3" reducing elbow right off the pump to save time or is this to fast of a reduction?

you could find a 5'' to 4'' elbow than just go with your 4'' to 3'' reducer, I only use the 5'' to 3'' elbow when doing grout and its a 3'' to 2'' reducer off of that. thats reducing pretty quick for 3/4 mud, but you could try it and you'll find out real quick if mud starts wadding up there

it is my experience that reducing to quickly will cause more problems than what it is worth. It is even possible to blow the reducer if you get to much pressure. The best rule of thumb that I have learned is the further you can go without reducing down is always better. If you can wait to reduce down inside the pour or in a non-clean area is best, just incase a fin fish comes through and plugs your reducer (like that will never happen) you'll won't have as much to worry about. If you have more questions feel free to direct email me, I'll do my best to answer your questions.

I'm more inclinded to agree with thewizard on this one in general.The materials in your area tend to dictate much of what we do.Harsh mixes are always an issue,the sweeter mixes are more forgiving.

I agree with Many Barron, We've got some of the best (pumpable) concrete in the country. I've used 5>3 reducing elbows on LP's lots of times they work fine around here, however. I choose to use 5>4 reducing elbow w/ 4>3 reducer to control the hose surge a little better and to have some leverage to twist the elbow & reducer upward so I can tie/chain it off and hit the road. You know how frequent off-site clean ups are around here. I like having the 4>3 reducer stood up-right so you can clamp your wall hook on and recirculate easily if there's no where to wash up before the next job. Its a matter of prefference, they work just fine. I know guys that swear by'em and dont even carry reducers.

thanks fella's, think I'll pick up a 5-4 elbow at least that will eliminate one reducer- I really hate this part of the set up, dont know why, I just do

a 5 to 3 elbow has never really worked for me too well not at least here in GA. Ruduction is way too fast and tends to plug way too ften. it really depends on your machine and mix and how fast you wanna pump out. the longer the reduction the easier it is on your pump.

i've run a 5 to 4 on the boom