The hydraulic ram is a device that has been used for over 100 years to pump falling water uphill. It works on the "water hammer" effect: i.e., it uses the energy of a column of water moving downhill in a pipeline that is suddenly stopped by a valve in the ram. As the water column is stopped, a pressure peak, or "hammer", is created, which is used to force some of the water uphill higher than the original source. This process is repeated continuously. To calculate the maximum quantity of water delivered by a ram pump, use the following formula:


Remember that this is the maximum quantity of water delivered, and it is often much less. Ram pumps generally require a minimum input of 2 - 5 gallons per minute. Rams are a time-honored means of pumping water uphill, and although they possess some features that may be objectionable, such as noise, tuning problems, installation difficulties, and periodic maintenance, they can be very effective if used in the right set of circumstances. Ideal applications are usually those with abundant water supply, low inlet pressure (very little fall), modest lift, and a somewhat patient operator.


These heavy-duty pumps have been moving water without electricity for over ten years. Lightweight, trouble-free, and very reasonably priced, they can lift water up to 125 feet, and provide flow rates of up to 2.75 gal/min. Larger capacity models are also available. Maximum flow rates will be achieved at a fall to lift ratio of 1:3 . Maximum fall to lift ratios of 1:10 can be achieved at reduced flow rates. Rams in parallel- If a single installation is not large enough to meet water requirements, or a very large ram is not available, then it may be desirable to use several rams in parallel. Our 1"-2" Hydro-Rams include inlet and outlet valves (usually extra on other manufacturer's rams).


The High Lifter is a powerful water pump designed to move water uphill without using gasoline or electricity. By harnessing the energy from a head of water, the High Lifter pump drives a portion of this water uphill. It is a positive displacement pump that uses a larger volume of low pressure water to pump a smaller volume of water at a higher pressure. Pistons provide the pumping action and water is the only lubricant used.

The High Lifter is an efficient, economical way to handle many pumping requirements. Ideally suited for hilly and mountainous terrain, it is lightweight, quiet, easy to install and capable of extreme lifts with low inlet flows.

The percentage of source water that is pumped uphill is dependent on the volumetric ratio of the pump. Thus a "9:1" ratio pump would deliver one gallon of water at the top of the hill for every nine gallons of water from the source. The 2" High Lifter pump is designed for outputs of up to 750 - 1500 gallons per day, and will operate on inputs as little as one quart per minute.

This rugged 5-1/2 lb. hydraulic pump can lift water over 1,000 feet without fuel or electricity and it works where ram pumps won't. The High-Lifter is much quieter and needs far less maintenance than a ram pump. Installation is accomplished in minutes using plastic pipe and common tools. Compared to gasoline pumps, the High-Lifter pays for itself in as little as half a year. Available in 4.5:1 ratio (H-44) or 9:1 ratio (H-49). Please specify.