💪 Balboa Ultimax Jet Pump (5235216-S) — 5.0 HP Dual-Speed 230V 56-Frame | 2″ x 2″ Side Discharge

High-performance hydrotherapy power exceeding 325 GPM — the OEM benchmark for luxury spa jet systems

📋 Product Overview

The Balboa Ultimax (5235216-S) is a premium 5.0 HP dual-speed jet pump manufactured by Balboa Water Group, designed for high-demand luxury spa and hot tub applications. As the successor to the discontinued Ultrajet and original Vico Ultimax pump lines, this pump maintains the same design footprint and mounting dimensions, making it a direct swap replacement for existing Ultrajet and Ultimax installations.

The Ultimax delivers exceptional flow rates exceeding 325 GPM on high speed, powering multi-jet configurations of 100+ jets across zone seating and focused therapy systems. The cool-running 56-frame thru-bolt motor operates at 230V/60Hz and draws 16.4 amps on high speed and 4.8 amps on low speed — the dual-speed design allows energy-efficient low-speed operation for circulation and heating while delivering full hydrotherapy power on high speed.

This specific model features 2 inch MBT (male buttress thread) connections on both the center suction and side discharge, with an outside thread diameter measuring approximately 3 inches. All seals are carbon ceramic with Viton elastomers, engineered for long-lasting performance under prolonged heat and chemical exposure in chlorine, bromine, and salt water environments. The multi-directional volute mounting can be rotated to accommodate various installation configurations.

Balboa ships these pumps with either a Century or U.S. Motors brand electric motor. Cord and unions are NOT included and must be purchased separately.

⚠️ CRITICAL WET END WARNING: Balboa Ultimax pumps have been manufactured under various OEM agreements for brands like Cal Spa, and there are different wet end configurations with non-standard discharge offsets. Before ordering, carefully verify your existing pump’s wet end configuration. See the Compatibility Guide section below for detailed information.

⭐ Key Features

✅ 5.0 HP Dual-Speed Motor — High speed for powerful hydrotherapy jets, low speed for energy-efficient circulation and heating

✅ Flow Rates Exceeding 325 GPM — Maximum flow performance for luxury spa applications with 100+ jets

✅ Cool-Running 56-Frame Motor — Thru-bolt design runs cooler for extended high-demand operation and longer motor life

✅ Carbon Ceramic Seals with Viton Elastomers — Long-lasting seal performance under prolonged heat and chemical exposure in chlorine, bromine, and salt water

✅ Multi-Directional Volute Mounting — Wet end can be rotated to accommodate any equipment bay configuration

✅ 2 Inch MBT Connections — Center suction and side discharge with standard 2 inch male buttress thread plumbing

✅ Direct Ultrajet/Ultimax Replacement — Same design footprint and mounting dimensions as discontinued Ultrajet and original Ultimax pumps

✅ Balboa Water Group Quality — Over four decades of industry-leading spa pump engineering and manufacturing

✅ Balboa Authorized Product — Parts4Tubs is a Balboa Authorized Online Seller

⚙️ Technical Specifications

Specification	Detail
Model Number	5235216-S
Manufacturer	Balboa Water Group
Pump Series	Ultimax (also referenced as Vico Ultimax / Niagara)
Pump Type	Jet Pump
Horsepower	5.0 HP (see HP note below)
Speed Settings	2-Speed (can also be wired for single speed)
Voltage	230V
Frequency	60 Hz
Amperage (High Speed)	16.4A
Amperage (Low Speed)	4.8A
RPM (High Speed)	3450
RPM (Low Speed)	1725
Flow Rate	Exceeding 325 GPM
Frame Size	56Y (Thru-Bolt)
Suction Size	2 inch MBT (center)
Suction Thread OD	Approximately 3 inches
Discharge Size	2 inch MBT (side)
Discharge Thread OD	Approximately 3 inches
Suction Style	Center
Discharge Style	Side
Seal Type	Carbon ceramic with Viton elastomers
Volute Mounting	Multi-directional (rotatable to 3 positions)
Wet End Bolts	5-bolt arrangement (standard configuration)
Dimensions (Approx.)	16.02 x 8.83 x 6.5 inches (L x H x Diameter)
Motor Brands	Century or U.S. Motors (varies per production run)
Cord Included	No — sold separately
Unions Included	No — sold separately

⚡ Electrical Requirements

Electrical Spec	Requirement
Supply Voltage	230V
Frequency	60 Hz
Phase	Single
Full Load Amps (High Speed)	16.4A
Full Load Amps (Low Speed)	4.8A
RPM (High Speed)	3450
RPM (Low Speed)	1725
Cord	Not included — sold separately

⚠️ IMPORTANT ELECTRICAL SAFETY INFORMATION:

All electrical work must be performed by a licensed electrician in accordance with the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local building codes. Hot tubs and spas require GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection. A dedicated circuit is required — do not share with other appliances.

⚠️ VOLTAGE WARNING: This is a 230V pump. Verify your existing pump’s voltage before ordering. Using incorrect voltage will damage the motor.

⚠️ AMPERAGE MATCHING: Always ensure the replacement pump’s high and low speed amperage do NOT exceed your existing pump’s amperage ratings. Installing an oversized pump can cause significant damage to your spa system.

🔗 Compatibility Guide

⚠️ CRITICAL: Wet End Configuration Warning

This is extremely important — read carefully before ordering.

Balboa has manufactured the Ultimax pump under various OEM agreements for brands like Cal Spa and others. As a result, there are different wet end configurations that are NOT interchangeable without modification:

Standard Wet End (This Pump Ships With):

• Side discharge offset approximately 2.5 inches from center
• 5-bolt arrangement on the impeller housing
• This is the standard configuration that fits most Ultimax/Ultrajet replacements

Non-Standard Wet End (Purchased Separately):

• Side discharge offset approximately 1.5 inches from center (closer to the suction)
• 4-bolt arrangement on the impeller housing
• Required for certain OEM spa brands

If you need a non-standard wet end: You will need to purchase the pump AND the correct non-standard wet end separately. The standard wet end comes already fitted to the pump. The non-standard wet end must be swapped over after purchase. If you are comfortable switching out a pump, changing a wet end should not be difficult.

⚠️ If you get the wet end wrong, the pump WILL NOT FIT your plumbing. Contact Parts4Tubs before ordering if you are unsure.

Connection Specifications

Connection	Size	Style	Thread OD
Suction (Intake)	2 inch MBT	Center	Approximately 3 inches
Discharge	2 inch MBT	Side	Approximately 3 inches

Thread Sizing Reference:

Nominal Size	Approximate Thread OD
1-1/2 inch	2-3/8 inches
2 inch	3 inches
2-1/2 inch	3-5/8 inches

Pumps This Model Replaces

The 5235216-S replaces virtually all Ultrajet and previous Ultimax models with matching amperage (14-16A high speed) and 2 inch x 2 inch plumbing. Verified cross-reference part numbers include:

Balboa / Vico OEM Numbers:

• 1056186
• 1016196
• 1016215
• 1016251
• 1016066 (also sold as 6HP)
• 1056296
• 5235216-B
• 5239216-S

Distributor Cross-References:

• 15-175-6186
• 34-110-1008
• 34-430-2528W
• 34-430-2528N
• PUM22000730

OEM Brand-Specific Numbers:

• 103699 (Coleman / Maxx)
• 21-0053-81 (Artesian)
• VIC1016185

Also Available With 2-1/2 Inch Suction

For spas requiring a larger suction connection, the Balboa Ultimax is also available in a 2-1/2 inch suction x 2 inch discharge configuration (different model number). Verify your existing plumbing before ordering.

How to Confirm Compatibility

1. Match the AMPERAGE first — If your old pump’s high speed amperage is between 14-16A at 230V, this is the correct match
2. Confirm FRAME SIZE — Must be 56-frame (not 48-frame)
3. Verify PLUMBING — Measure the thread OD on both suction and discharge. If both measure approximately 3 inches OD, you have 2 inch connections
4. Check DISCHARGE POSITION — Confirm side discharge with correct offset (standard vs. non-standard wet end)
5. Verify VOLTAGE — Must be 230V

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🛠️ Installation Requirements

Mounting

Requirement	Specification
Frame	56Y thru-bolt
Base	Solid, level, vibration-dampening recommended
Motor Base	Varies: U.S. Motors = 4-wide base (3 inch O/C); Century = wider 6 inch base (3 inch and 5 inch O/C)
Ventilation	Adequate clearance for motor cooling
Access	Sufficient space for pump and plumbing service

Plumbing Connections

Connection	Size	Type
Suction (Intake)	2 inch	Male Buttress Thread (MBT) — center
Discharge	2 inch	Male Buttress Thread (MBT) — side
Union Type	Sold separately	Compatible with standard 2 inch spa pump unions

Wet End Rotation

The volute can be rotated to one of 3 positions to match your plumbing layout. Follow the manufacturer’s guide to rotate the wet end:

1. Remove the 5 bolts securing the volute to the pump body
2. Rotate the volute to the desired position
3. Reinstall and tighten the 5 bolts evenly

Installation Notes

⚠️ All electrical work must be performed by a licensed electrician per NEC and local codes

⚠️ GFCI protection is required by code for all hot tub installations

⚠️ Verify voltage matches before connecting — 230V ONLY for this model

⚠️ Do NOT exceed the amperage ratings of your original pump — installing an oversized pump can damage your spa

⚠️ Cord and unions are NOT included — purchase separately or reuse existing if in good condition

⚠️ Verify wet end configuration (standard vs. non-standard) before installation

⚠️ Pump and motor manufacturers reserve the right to change motor brand without notice — Century or U.S. Motors may be supplied

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🔧 Maintenance Guide

Routine Maintenance

Task	Frequency	Notes
Check for leaks	Monthly	Inspect around seals, unions, and wet end bolts
Inspect unions	Monthly	Hand tighten if needed
Listen for unusual noise	Monthly	Grinding, screeching, or cavitation sounds indicate problems
Check amperage	Annually	Should match pump nameplate ratings
Inspect motor vents	Quarterly	Keep clear of debris for proper cooling
Check mounting	Quarterly	Ensure pump is stable and secure
Verify flow	Monthly	Reduced jet performance may indicate impeller wear or blockage

Warning Signs — Service or Replace Pump If:

• Unusual noise (grinding, screeching, or cavitation)
• Water leaking from the seal plate area
• Motor trips the circuit breaker repeatedly
• Reduced jet pressure or flow
• Motor overheating
• Excessive vibration
• Pump fails to start or hums without turning

Seal Information

Seal Component	Material
Seal Face	Carbon ceramic
Elastomer	Viton

The carbon ceramic with Viton construction is engineered to endure prolonged heat and chemical exposure in chlorine, bromine, and salt water systems.

🎯 Ideal Applications

Application	Suitability	Notes
♨️ Luxury spa jet systems	Yes — Primary application	Designed for high-performance hydrotherapy
♨️ Multi-jet configurations (100+ jets)	Yes	Exceeds 325 GPM for maximum performance
♨️ Zone seating arrangements	Yes	Powers focused therapy zones
♨️ Dual-speed heating/jet operation	Yes	Low speed for heating/circulation, high speed for jets
♨️ Ultrajet/Ultimax replacement	Yes	Same design footprint — direct swap
♨️ Small spa systems	No — Oversized	Consider a lower HP Ultimax model
♨️ Circulation pump replacement	No	This is a jet pump, not a circulation pump

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What horsepower is this pump? A: This pump is most commonly listed as 5.0 HP. However, HP ratings on spa pumps vary by measurement method. SpaGuts lists it as “5.0HP Continuous, 7.0 BHP.” Some sources label it as 4.0/5.0 HP. For accurate replacement matching, use the high speed amperage rating (14-16A at 230V) instead of HP.

Q: Will this fit my existing Ultrajet or Ultimax pump? A: Yes — Balboa now manufactures the replacement pumps for the discontinued Ultrajet and Ultimax series. The design footprint and mounting dimensions are the same. Match the amperage, voltage, frame size, and plumbing connections of your existing pump.

Q: What voltage does this pump require? A: 230V / 60Hz. Verify your existing pump’s voltage before ordering. Using incorrect voltage will damage the motor.

Q: Does this pump come with a cord? A: No. The power cord is NOT included and must be purchased separately. You may be able to reuse your existing cord if it is in good condition and properly rated.

Q: Does this pump come with unions? A: No. Unions are NOT included and must be purchased separately or reused from your existing installation.

Q: What size are the plumbing connections? A: Both suction (center) and discharge (side) are 2 inch MBT (male buttress thread). The outside diameter of the threads measures approximately 3 inches.

Q: What is the difference between standard and non-standard wet ends? A: The standard wet end has the side discharge offset approximately 2.5 inches from center with a 5-bolt arrangement. The non-standard wet end has the discharge offset approximately 1.5 inches from center with a 4-bolt arrangement. Some OEM brands (like Cal Spa) used the non-standard configuration. If you need the non-standard wet end, you must purchase it separately and swap it onto the pump.

Q: Which motor brand will I receive? A: Balboa ships these pumps with either a Century or U.S. Motors brand motor. The motor brand varies per production run and cannot be specified when ordering. Both provide the same performance — the only difference is the motor base width (U.S. Motors has a standard 4 inch wide base; Century may have a wider 6 inch base).

Q: How do I know if my old pump had an uprated HP label? A: Ultrajet pumps in particular had HP labels that did not represent continuous operating horsepower. Rather than matching HP, match your old pump’s high speed amperage to the replacement pump’s amperage. If your old pump shows 14-16A high speed at 230V, this 5235216-S is the correct replacement.

Q: Can this pump be wired for single speed? A: Yes. Although this is a 2-speed pump, it can also be wired for single speed operation if your spa control system only supports a single-speed configuration.

Q: What warranty is included? A: SpaGuts lists a 2-year limited warranty for this pump. Contact Parts4Tubs for specific warranty terms and support.

Q: Do I need a GFCI breaker? A: Yes. GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection is required by the National Electrical Code (NEC) for all hot tub and spa electrical installations.

Q: What if I can’t determine my wet end configuration? A: Contact Parts4Tubs before ordering. Measure the distance from the center of the suction port to the center of the discharge port, and count the number of bolts on the impeller housing (4 or 5). This information will determine whether you need the standard or non-standard wet end.

Q: Is this pump compatible with 2-1/2 inch suction plumbing? A: This specific model (5235216-S) has 2 inch x 2 inch connections. If your spa uses 2-1/2 inch suction plumbing, you need a different Ultimax model with the 2-1/2 inch suction wet end. Contact Parts4Tubs to confirm the correct model for your plumbing.

🏆 Why Choose the Balboa Ultimax (5235216-S)

✅ Exceeding 325 GPM — Maximum flow for demanding luxury spa applications with 100+ jet configurations

✅ Direct Ultrajet/Ultimax Replacement — Same footprint, same mounting — simple swap for discontinued models

✅ Dual-Speed Efficiency — Full hydrotherapy power on high, energy-saving circulation on low

✅ Premium Carbon Ceramic / Viton Seals — Built to endure prolonged heat and chemical exposure

✅ Cool-Running 56-Frame Motor — Extended service life during continuous high-demand operation

✅ Balboa Water Group Engineering — Over 40 years of industry-leading spa pump technology

✅ Balboa Authorized Seller — Parts4Tubs is a Balboa Authorized Online Seller — buy genuine parts from a trusted source

🤝 Why Buy From Parts4Tubs

✅ Balboa Authorized Online Seller — genuine Balboa parts guaranteed

✅ US-based support for American customers

✅ Fast shipping across the United States

✅ Expert advice from spa and hot tub specialists — contact us to verify wet end compatibility

✅ Competitive pricing

✅ Full warranty support

✅ Hassle-free returns

✅ Replacement wet ends, unions, and accessories available

✅ Dedicated customer service team

✨ Summary

The Balboa Ultimax (5235216-S) is a premium 5.0 HP dual-speed jet pump delivering flow rates exceeding 325 GPM for luxury spa applications. Running at 230V/60Hz with 16.4A high / 4.8A low speed amperage on a cool-running 56-frame motor, this pump directly replaces discontinued Ultrajet and original Ultimax models with the same design footprint. Carbon ceramic / Viton seals provide long-lasting chemical resistance, while the multi-directional volute accommodates flexible installation. Features 2 inch MBT center suction and side discharge. Available now at Parts4Tubs — a Balboa Authorized Online Seller. Contact our team for expert wet end compatibility verification before ordering.

Parts4Tubs is proud to be a Balboa Authorized Online Seller - make sure you only buy genuine Balboa parts from trusted sources.

**PLEASE READ THIS IS IMPORTANT**

When selecting a Balboa Ultimax or Vico Ultimax pump, you must pay careful attention to the wet end. The is the black part on the end of the pump which connects to the plumbing and has the impellor inside.

Balboa have made this pump under various OEM agreements, for the likes of CalSpa amongst others who have then included it in their hot tubs.

Whereas normally with a pump, you can select the voltage, horsepower and frame size, it is a little more difficult with this brand. There are different types of wet end for this model and the discharge (the part that connects to the pipework that flows to your jets) can be in a different position. Normally, you would choose from either side discharge, or center discharge but "helpfully" (not at all!) Balboa has a different offset for the side discharge on this model. THIS IS NOT STANDARD.

If you get this wrong, the part will not fit.

Please take a look at the two different examples below. Both of these are for a 2HP pump but you can see they look totally different. You will also notice that the position of the discharge is roughly 1" different. The one on the left is offset around 2.5" and the one on the right is offset around 1.5".

If you are looking to replace a pump and you need a non-standard wet end, you will need to buy a new pump AND the wet end that you need. Please note, in some cases you will just need to change the Volute (impeller cover)

The standard model comes already fitted to the pump whereas the non-standard model will need to be purchased separately, and you will need to change this over. 

If you are comfortable enough to switch out a pump, changing a wet end over should not be a problem for you.

If you are not sure, please do get in touch.