Dredge, help, improvements and suggestions

Hi, I am attempting to reconfigure a recently acquired dredge, crafted by a craftsman from South Island before I purchased it from its previous owner.
It operates with a Swimjoy pump powered by a Honda 9 hp engine.

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(I made an error, it’s actually a Honda GX 140 5.5 hp engine running a P180 equivalent pump.) The suction hose measures 3 meters in length.

It’s apparent that there’s significant assistance needed in classifying materials and constructing a wider sluice box. I will email and personally thank those who've graciously offered their help.

I have 17 riffles, each 50mm x 250mm. Implementing classification may assist in keeping the sluice boxes unclogged? (Insert technical term here)
Integrating expanded mesh may aid in clearing and capturing the material?

I am targeting flood gold, which tends to be flaky and light. The maximum size found so far is 0.3 gm

I am working under my permit near Kumara, West Coast.

Issues include frequent blockages in the pipe unless running at three-quarters throttle or higher, leading to water jetting over the box.

The suction hose currently measures 5 inches, which might be too large for the pump.

The sluice box dimensions are 250mm wide and 1700mm long. It contains riffles and collects substantial amounts of rocks and other debris. It maintains about 100mm depth of water while operating, and the end of the box remains submerged. The water flow force seems to prevent any back pressure.
I achieve better recovery with my hand sluice box.

Improvements considered or implemented include.
Installing a grate on the nozzle to minimize rock size and blockages, although it reduces production and requires more manual effort.

Would periodically stopping the dredging to run at full throttle help clear the suction hose, without disrupting the sluice bed if no gravel is collected?

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Once conditions improve, I plan to install a classifying mesh or punch plate in the box with a wave at the start to deflect jets caused by blockages in the suction hose.

Has anyone utilized Gold Hog mats or Dream mats in a dredge setup? I presume they might reduce concentrates, but the rolling rocks could unsettle the gold bed.

If I run the pump at more than three-quarters throttle, I worry that the light flood gold might wash away.

The unit's advantages include its portability and width, making it suitable for navigation through narrow gorges.

Classification enhancement is paramount. I plan to design a longer and heavier dampening mat and potentially overhaul the box for enhanced width in the future. Elevating the box and engine wouldn’t require extensive effort.

Sincerely hoping for any suggestions or insights to aid.
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Previously posted on another forum, this advice compilation aids new buyers. I have bought and sold numerous dredges and these tips should prove helpful.
First and foremost, purchasing online means uncertainty regarding the dredge’s condition until it finally arrives. Several buyers have reported receiving deceivingly advertised rust buckets. Requesting a recent photo, even if delayed, can mitigate this risk. Date-stamped images provide some security, especially when dealing with unfamiliar sellers.

Written by Reed Lukens on October 22, 2001, at 11:30 AM:

When possible, visit the seller's location to inspect the equipment directly. Insist on the pump being detached from the motor beforehand to assess the engine’s functionality and ensure no rusted pump bolts.
Reassemble using anti-seize or C5A on bolts and pump impeller shaft bolts to prevent them from locking. Hand-tightening the impeller ensures easy removal for future disassembly.
Ensure the motor runs for at least 5 minutes. If fuel shortages are cited, walk away. A responsible seller will have the motor ready for demonstration. Check the air Hooka system during this period.

Written by Reed Lukens on October 22, 2001, at 11:41 AM:

Use Listerine to clean regulators thoroughly, checking for cracks or damaged seals. Inspect airlines for holes by running hands along them while in operation.
Pontoons can indicate condition; examine carefully for cracks or discolorations, especially if exposed to the sun. Fragile pontoons often hint at equally compromised hoses.

Written by Reed Lukens on October 22, 2001, at 11:57 AM:

Check the power jet for downstream bulges, a sign of impending replacement. Beware smooth talkers; a suspect product description likely signals subpar equipment.
Ensure all parts are present by having the seller assemble the dredge before you. It prevents missing components and provides a chance to learn assembly.
Seek advice if you lack equipment knowledge. Consult local mining shops or forums.
Inspect all parts thoroughly to avoid costly mistakes - a decrepit 4” dredge isn't worth $1200; offer fair value based on condition.

Written by Reed Lukens on October 22, 2001, at 12:31 PM:

Clarify descriptions if making a distant purchase to avoid wasted trips. Confirm assembly and readiness via detailed discussions.
Avoid impulsive buys; venture informed and ready to negotiate.
Examine thoroughly, from nuts and bolts to welding integrity.
Used dredge pricing guide: 2” - ~$400 3” - $600-800 (with air) 4” - $800-1000 (with air) 5” - $1500 (with air)

Modern Jet Flare dredges may cost more but ensure comprehensive checks before purchasing any equipment.
Be informed, seek help if needed, avoid non-functional purchases.
I hope these guidelines assist in making informed purchases.
If any tips were overlooked, please contribute.

Reed Lukens

Guidelines for eBay Dredge Purchases:
1. Enlarge all photos, save them, and enhance clarity using photo software.
2. Examine for faded pontoons; subtract new float costs if necessary.
3. Inspect power jet images; account for replacement costs if any bulge is noted.
4. Seek advice from prospector forums or contact me directly for bid recommendations.
eBay can be a valuable resource but exercise caution in the dredge category.

Written by Reed Lukens on August 3, 2003, at 1:06 PM:

Check hose coloration as it signals age and condition; replace non-functional hoses. Consider thick wall clear flow hoses for longevity.
For Keene dredges with new gray pontoons, and consider the ease of mobility to avoid cumbersome equipment.
Old 5" Keene Triple remains top-notch for recovery but requires teamwork for operation.
Keep a garden hose handy for tough pack breakage.

Reed

Written by Reed Lukens on August 3, 2003, at 1:45 PM:

Case Study:
I rebuilt a 5" triple dredge for $1750, offering it to a friend. He opted for a $1200 eBay triple with twin 5hp Honda engines instead. Upon inspection, it was close to a wreck. He had to replace hoses, and then the power jet failed. Near shore, the dredge sides submerged, with its remaining motor afloat.
Without deep water, the remaining functioning pontoon saved the day.
This scenario underscores the peril of ignoring faulty pontoons and proper preparation.

Reed Lukens

For more information, please visit Dredge Pipe Floats.