Replacing a galv tank that has a Merrill Float

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pauledst

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We have lived here in the country 12 years. The well/pump/tank system has performed acceptably the whole time. The only regular maintenance has been a yearly drain down to alleviate water logging. I recently replaced the water softener due to mechanical failures. (it was a 20 year old Culligan)
Now I think I should preemptively change out the tank and put in a bladder type before I have a serious failure.
Some stats on the system:

House built and well drilled in 1965

Well depth 125 feet (the driller left a 3x5 card tacked to the pit wall along with the soil types at various depths)

Submerseable Jacuzzi pump (drillers card says 1/2 hp but Jacuzzi control box on the wall has a metal tag on the front from Franklin Motor that says 3/4 hp)

The galv tank is appx 26 in dia and 62 in tall. It also has a red/orange sticker on it that says "A Merrill Float is installed in this tank. Also gives an address of Storm Lake Iowa. Some brief internet searching turned up nothing. It appears to me the tank is probably original.

The only thing I've changed is the Square D pressure control switch about two years ago.

Our use is a two person household with seven fixtures. In addition we sprinkle the several gardens in the summer if it doesn't rain. (like this summer)

My main question is can I simply replace the galv tank with a bladder tank? (and suitable adjustment of the control switch) If so where can I buy one that will be good for a long time. Comments in various forums on the web poo-poo the tanks sold by "big box" stores. We have ******* (H2OW-TO) and Lowes (?) close by. I can also drive to Minneapolis/St. Paul (about 60 miles)

Thanks to all willing to give advice. :)
 

Valveman

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Sometimes just removing the above ground check valve will allow you to change from a galv tank to a bladder tank. However, if the bleeder in the well causes the pressure to leak back, you will have to pull up the pump a far enough to plug the bleeder orifice.
 
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