Iam looking at possibly buying another pump.  I currently run a little schwing pump with a old Thompsen boom.

What do you guys prefer and why?  Rock valve or S Tube.  What can you tell me about Reed boom pumps?

Thank

Ryan

Check your mail Ry.

Rock-valves are easy to clean out but with an s-tube there's no kidney seal to worry about. My favorite part about Reed booms are the "Drangon-fly" out-riggers..... 

too tall, I have never seen these specs on the reed, does it have a system to keep you from moving your boom outside the shaded area?

If you are asking for opinions then I would absolutely go with the rock valve- schwing.  Easy to replace parts, will eat almost everything you throw at them.  Even your mother-in-law.  Look around for something a few years old, have a PUMP mechanic go with you to check out the pump and a certified boom inspector to take a closer look.  Dont want to buy junk, however thier are a lot of great deals because of the economy.  Happy Hunting.

I have seen s-tube pumps go through lightweight without hanging up while a rock valve will "check out" sooner.A rock valve will always be pushing material against a "dead surface" in the form of the kidney plate,where an s-tube pushes material through the valve itself,no "dead surfaces" involved. On the other hand a rock valve is easy to work on,an s-tube requires a few more tools and is more time consuming.A rock valve shaft is sealed with 1 o-ring,an s-tube shaft is sealed with a packing similar to a hydraulic cylinder. A rock valve has a rubber kidney seal that will wear,a rock valve cannot be dry stroked.An s-tube has no external rubber parts and may be dry stroked. Both are good valves,I have met a key person involved with REED,he is a literal genius in electrics and hydraulics,you can't go wrong.If I had the chance to "try out" a certain pump design it would be the 37 with dragonfly legs.

 Ry

They are both great machines with very good companies backing them up - solid.

My advice is [as always] to look at the dealer that will support you. I don't know where you live or who that might be. You need to know just how important they think your business is. It is all about service.

As for the valves, Bisley57 has given a good account on both.

Thanks for all the great info much appreciated.

Ryan

Elkhunter I dont believe they have a "stop" system but they sure increase stability when short-rigging. They can be fully extended without being swung out all the way. Here's a picture of one on a job...  (someone elses pump)...

I also like the straight shot deck-pipe with no 45s to the turret and good elevation.