The Franklin Electric Turf Boss Self-Priming Centrifugal Pump is one of the most recognized self-priming pump lines in the industry, built specifically for timer-operated irrigation systems, turf management, golf course watering, and a wide range of water transfer applications. Available from 1 HP through 5 HP, the Turf Boss covers everything from residential lawn irrigation to large-scale commercial turf systems. At Ken’s Distributing Company, we stock the full Turf Boss lineup so you can get the right model with fast shipping and genuine Franklin Electric support behind it.
The Turf Boss is Franklin Electric’s purpose-built close-coupled self-priming centrifugal pump for turf and irrigation applications. It is designed to handle the repeated start-stop cycles that timer-operated sprinkler systems demand, lifting water from up to 25 feet below the pump and delivering flow rates up to 70 GPM with shut-off pressures up to 130 feet of head on the 1 to 2 HP models.
What makes the Turf Boss stand out is the combination of its self-priming capability, its back pull-out serviceability design, and the choice between thermoplastic hydraulic components on the lighter models and cast iron diffusers on the 3 to 5 HP commercial models. It is CSA and UL approved for both indoor and outdoor installation across all 50 states.
Kendisco is an authorized Franklin Electric distributor. Every Turf Boss pump you order through Ken’s Distributing Company is a genuine Franklin Electric product with full manufacturer support and access to real replacement parts when you need them.
The Turf Boss family splits into two distinct model groups based on HP range and construction. Understanding the difference helps you pick the right pump for your job the first time.
| Feature | Turf Boss 1 to 2 HP Models | Turf Boss 3 to 5 HP Models |
|---|---|---|
| HP Range | 1 HP, 1.5 HP, 2 HP | 3 HP, 5 HP |
| Best For | Residential, small turf systems | Golf courses, commercial irrigation |
| Max Flow | Up to 70 GPM | Higher GPM for large systems |
| Max Shut-Off Head | Up to 130 feet | Higher head for commercial use |
| Impeller Material | Modified PPO thermoplastic or 304 SS | 304 Stainless Steel |
| Diffuser | Thermoplastic | Cast Iron |
| Motor Frame | 56-J Frame | JM Frame |
| Suction Check Valve | External foot valve recommended | Built-in suction check valve |
| Voltage (Single Phase) | 115 / 230 VAC (2 HP is 230 V only) | 230 VAC |
| Motor Enclosure | ODP | ODP |
Max Priming Lift: 25 feet
Max Flow Rate: Up to 70 GPM (1 to 2 HP models)
Max Shut-Off Head: Up to 130 feet (1 to 2 HP models)
Max Water Temperature: 120 degrees F
Suction Connection: 1.5 inch NPT
Discharge Connection: 1.5 inch NPT
Priming Plug: Integral 1 inch NPT
Certifications: CSA and UL approved for indoor and outdoor use
| Item | Model | HP | Phases | Volts | Motor Enclosure |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 92980010 | FTB1CI | 1 hp | Single-Phase | 115 VAC / 230 VAC | ODP |
| 92981010 | FTB1CI-SSI | 1 hp | Single-Phase | 115 VAC / 230 VAC | ODP |
| 92980015 | FTB15CI | 1.5 hp | Single-Phase | 115 VAC / 230 VAC | ODP |
| 92981015 | FTB15CI-SSI | 1.5 hp | Single-Phase | 115 VAC / 230 VAC | ODP |
| 92980020 | FTB2CI | 2 hp | Single-Phase | 230 VAC | ODP |
| 92981020 | FTB2CI-SSI | 2 hp | Single-Phase | 230 VAC | ODP |
| 92980030 | FTB3CI | 3 hp | Single-Phase | 115 VAC / 230 VAC | ODP |
| 92980130 | FTB3CI-E | 3 hp | Single-Phase | 115 VAC / 230 VAC | TEFC |
| 92980050 | FTB5CI | 5 hp | Single-Phase | 230 VAC | ODP |
| 92980150 | FTB5CI-E | 5 hp | Single-Phase | 230 VAC | TEFC |
| Item | Model | HP | Phases | Volts | Motor Enclosure |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 92983010 | FTB1CI-SSI-T | 1 hp | Three-Phase | 230 VAC / 460 VAC | ODP |
| 92983015 | FTB15CI-SSI-T | 1.5 hp | Three-Phase | 230 VAC / 460 VAC | ODP |
| 92983020 | FTB2CI-SSI-T | 2 hp | Three-Phase | 230 VAC / 460 VAC | ODP |
| 92980035 | FTB3CI-T | 3 hp | Three-Phase | 230 VAC / 460 VAC | ODP |
| 92980135 | FTB3CI-TE | 3 hp | Three-Phase | 230 VAC / 460 VAC | TEFC |
| 92980136 | FTB3CI-T5E | 3 hp | Three-Phase | 575 VAC | TEFC |
| 92980055 | FTB5CI-T | 5 hp | Three-Phase | 230 VAC / 460 VAC | ODP |
| 92980155 | FTB5CI-TE | 5 hp | Three-Phase | 230 VAC / 460 VAC | TEFC |
| 92980156 | FTB5CI-T5E | 5 hp | Three-Phase | 575 VAC | TEFC |
| Item | Model | HP | Motor NEMA Frame Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 92940010 | TB1CI-PE | 1 hp | 56J C Face |
| 92940015 | TB15CI-PE | 1.5 hp | 56J C Face |
| 92940020 | TB2CI-PE | 2 hp | 56J C Face |
| 92941010 | TB1CI-SSI-PE | 1 hp | 56J C Face Thrd Shaft |
| 92941015 | TB15CI-SSI-PE | 1.5 hp | 56J C Face Thrd Shaft |
| 92941020 | TB2CI-SSI-PE | 2 hp | 56J C Face Thrd Shaft |
| 92980033 | FTB3CI-PE | 3 hp | 145 -184JM |
| 92980053 | FTB5CI-PE | 5 hp | 145 -184JM |
Self-priming is the feature that makes the Turf Boss so well suited for irrigation systems. A standard centrifugal pump needs to be sitting in or flooded with water to operate. The Turf Boss can pull water up from a source up to 25 feet below the pump without manual priming on every cycle.
On the 1 to 2 HP models, the floating stainless steel impeller eye seal combined with the Modified PPO thermoplastic hydraulic components creates a reliable priming circuit that expels air from the suction line and draws water up automatically after the initial housing fill. On the 3 to 5 HP models, a built-in suction check valve serves the same function, preventing backflow and maintaining the liquid needed for priming between cycles.
For timer-operated systems that cycle on and off multiple times throughout the day, this self-priming capability means the pump restarts reliably every single time without operator involvement.
The Turf Boss covers a broader range of applications than its name might suggest. Here is where it is most commonly used:
The answer comes down to the size of your system and the flow rate you need to maintain.
If you are irrigating a residential lawn, a small sports field, or a single-zone commercial property and your GPM requirement falls within 70 GPM, the 1 to 2 HP models handle the job at a lower cost and with simpler voltage requirements. The dual-voltage capability on 1 and 1.5 HP models also gives you more flexibility on older electrical systems.
If you are managing a golf course, a multi-zone commercial turf system, or any application where you need more flow volume, higher pressure, or the durability of a cast iron diffuser and stainless impeller, step up to the 3 to 5 HP models. The built-in suction check valve also simplifies installation on larger systems where running a separate foot valve line adds complexity.
Not sure which model fits your system? Call Ken’s Distributing Company at 303.699.7845 and we will help you size it correctly based on your GPM requirements, total head, and available power supply.
The back pull-out design of the Turf Boss 1 to 2 HP models is specifically engineered to make service fast and practical. You can access the impeller, seal, and diffuser without touching the plumbing or moving the base. For the 3 to 5 HP models, the JM frame motor and standard component layout make parts sourcing and replacement straightforward.
Ken’s Distributing Company stocks genuine Franklin Electric Turf Boss replacement parts including mechanical seals, impellers, diffusers, and gasket kits. When something wears out, we get you the right part fast so you are not losing irrigation days waiting on a shipment.
Browse our Franklin Electric replacement parts and repair kits for the Turf Boss and all other Franklin Electric pump series.
The Franklin Electric Turf Boss is a close-coupled self-priming centrifugal pump designed primarily for turf irrigation, golf course watering, sprinkler systems, and general water transfer. It is available in 1 to 5 HP and handles residential through commercial scale irrigation demands.
Yes. The Turf Boss lifts water from up to 25 feet below the pump without manual priming after the initial housing fill. On 1 to 2 HP models, the floating impeller eye seal maintains the priming circuit. On 3 to 5 HP models, a built-in suction check valve handles priming and prevents backflow between cycles.
The 1 to 2 HP models use Modified PPO thermoplastic hydraulic components with an optional stainless impeller, a 56-J frame motor, and are dual voltage capable at 115 or 230 VAC. The 3 to 5 HP models feature a 304 stainless steel impeller, a cast iron diffuser, a JM frame motor, and a built-in suction check valve for larger commercial and golf course applications.
The Turf Boss can lift water from up to 25 feet below the pump on the 1 to 2 HP models. This makes it suitable for suction lift applications where the water source is below the pump installation point.
The 1 to 2 HP Turf Boss models deliver flow rates up to 70 GPM with shut-off pressures up to 130 feet of head. The 3 to 5 HP models offer higher flow rates suited for larger commercial irrigation systems. Contact Kendisco for specific performance curve data by model.
Yes. The Turf Boss is specifically designed for timer-operated irrigation systems. The self-priming design allows the pump to restart automatically after every timer-triggered shutdown without any manual intervention.
Yes. The Turf Boss is CSA and UL approved for both indoor and outdoor installation across all 50 U.S. states. The cast iron pump case and ODP motor handle outdoor conditions well in sheltered installations.
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