Lomart skimmer modify?

[rayh78]

Anybody ever modified a lomart skimmer http://www.leisuretimeok.com/parts/doughboy/0-2091-013.htm
I like these because of the way the vacuum hose plugs in. But the actual opening in the bottom of the skimmer is only about 1 1/4” compared to 1 1/2” with other skimmers that you can put a regular 1 ½” barb into. I was think about drilling out the bottom and putting in a different fitting like maybe something like a return fitting. Would this increase the flow?
What started this is a friend of mine has about 50% more pressure output thru the same type return eyeball. He has a skimmer with the larger 1 ½” barb. Both of us have an AG pool but he does have a Water Ace self priming pump http://www.waterace.com/swim.html
that looks a bit larger. Both are 1 HP but his is rated at 90 gpm at 14 amp and mine at 86 gpm at 11 amp. Would the pumps be making that much difference? The gpm seems about the same , I have a new hayward matrix
http://www.haywardnet.com/aboveground/products/pumps/Power-Flo_Matrix.cfm
I know mine is working the best it can because another friend has the same as me and his works the same with a lomart skimmer a little different 1 hp hayward pump.

Thanks, just trying to understand this.

[hrsdennis]

These units are designed to accept two different size hoses. If you are using the larger hose simply cut off the bottom portion, it is not of any use two you. It will not make a lot of difference but maybe some.

Later, Dennis

[rayh78]

The new one I have does not have the step fitting that has a smaller one can cut off.
The inside of the pipe is only about 1" and I was worried it can not supply enough water to my 1 hp pump.
Wonder why lomart makes thiers a bit smaller than normal.

[hrsdennis]

I would not try to modify it, the very little you might gain would not be worth it.

Filter systems can usually take in more water than they can pump out. A second return is usually the way to increase the flow of the filter.

Later, Dennis