GROCO ARG-2500 Series 2-1/2" Raw Water Strainer Monel Basket

Robust Filtration and Design

The ARG-2500 is part of GROCO's premier series, known for its tie-rod-free design. This eliminates the common leak points and gaskets found in older style strainers.

• Monel Filter Basket: Unlike standard 304 stainless steel, the Monel basket is virtually immune to the pitting and corrosion caused by constant saltwater exposure, ensuring long-term reliability.

• One-Piece Sight Glass: Features a durable, molded acrylic cylinder that provides a clear view of the basket for easy inspection without the structural weakness of traditional tie rods.

• Tool-Free Maintenance: The spin-off wingnut cap and quick-release mounting strap allow you to clean the basket or remove the entire unit for service without specialized tools.

• Bronze Construction: The head casting is made from C84400 bronze, providing a sturdy, professional-grade foundation that handles high-flow conditions.

Installation & Maintenance Tips

• Mounting: The ARG series features a mounting bracket integrated into the casting. Ensure it is securely fastened to a bulkhead to prevent vibration from stressing your plumbing.

• Bonding: Always connect the strainer to your boat's central bonding system using the provided grounding lug to prevent galvanic corrosion.

• O-Ring Care: When cleaning the basket, inspect the cap O-ring. A light coating of silicone grease (not petroleum jelly) will ensure a vacuum-tight seal and prevent the pump from sucking air.

Maintenance & Compatibility

For routine maintenance, this strainer uses the ARG-756 Drain Plug (for units built after 2008). If you are installing this on a high-demand vessel, it pairs perfectly with the Paragon Senior 12V Water Pressure System for a complete commercial-grade plumbing setup.

What’s In The Box | GROCO ARG-2500-S

• 1 x GROCO ARG-2500 Strainer Housing: The main body featuring a heavy-duty cast bronze base with integrated 2-1/2" NPT threaded ports.

• 1 x Monel Filter Basket: Pre-installed inside the unit. This is the upgraded nickel-copper alloy basket designed for maximum corrosion resistance.

• 1 x One-Piece Sight Glass: A clear, thick-walled non-metallic cylinder that allows you to inspect debris without opening the unit.

• 1 x Twist-Off Cap with Handle: The bronze top cap with a large integrated handle for tool-free opening.

• 1 x Cap O-Ring: Pre-seated in the cap to ensure a vacuum-tight seal (essential for preventing your engine pump from sucking air).

• Integrated Mounting Bracket: The mounting "feet" or ears are cast directly into the bronze base for securing the unit to a bulkhead.

Critical Items NOT Included

• NPT Fittings/Hose Barbs: You will need to purchase two 2-1/2" NPT male adapters (usually bronze or high-strength Marelon) to connect your specific raw water hoses.

• Mounting Bolts: Because mounting surfaces vary (fiberglass, wood, or metal), the stainless steel fasteners needed to bolt the strainer to your boat are not included.

• Bonding Wire: You will need a length of green 8 AWG or 10 AWG marine wire to connect the strainer's grounding lug to your boat’s bonding system.

Pre-Installation Checklist

1. Check the O-Ring: Upon opening, ensure the O-ring is seated flat and free of grit. A tiny dab of silicone grease here goes a long way.

2. Verify Flow Direction: Look for the cast-in arrow on the bronze base. Raw water must enter the "In" port to ensure debris is trapped inside the basket rather than against the outside of it.

3. Clearance: Ensure you have at least 10 inches of vertical clearance above the unit. You need this space to pull the 2-1/2" basket out for cleaning.