MSR Miniworks EX Water Filter

I bought this likely 30+ years ago, the pump has a PN# 32-788, it has ben dry stored all this time. It has only been used once. Can I recondition the filter as per instructions (16-24 hours in 1oz/1ltr bleach solution) or has this filter reached its use by date? If it needs to be replaced, can you direct me the correct model number of the replacement filter to order. I now live in New Zealand, and if you recommend a NZ supplier, that would be a bonus. Thank you

This is the absolute worst water filter you can ever purchase. It does not work and will leave you stranded for clean water when you actually need it. It's not just a waste of money, but the part that gets me angry is that a faulty water filter is dangerous and a health risk. I followed the pre - use instructions to set up the filter prior to the trip and tested it with tap water at home. We brought it with us on our thru - hike on Vancouver island and used it to filter out clear, tarn water that was not particularly cold (not a glacial tarn with an iceberg still floating on it) that was free of bugs and debris. It stopped working after day 1. The water was pumping into the filter just fine but the filter cartilage was not working at all and no filtered water was flowing out. Yes, the covering for the spout was taken off first. This is the second time it happened. I had tested it out on a day hike a few months prior and the same problem happened. I had sent it back to MSR to get it fixed. It was sent back to me without any note or explanation of what went wrong / what was fixed, which led me to think that nothing was done to it whatsoever. So I am weary of the warranty. So of the two trips I used it on, it failed me both times. And for reference, I've only used this water filter twice (not a wear and tear / volume issue).

This is the absolute worst water filter you can ever purchase. It does not work and will leave you stranded for clean water when you actually need it. It's not just a waste of money, but the part that gets me angry is that a faulty water filter is dangerous and a health risk. I followed the pre - use instructions to set up the filter prior to the trip and tested it with tap water at home. We brought it with us on our thru - hike on Vancouver island and used it to filter out clear, tarn water that was not particularly cold (not a glacial tarn with an iceberg still floating on it) that was free of bugs and debris. It stopped working after day 1. The water was pumping into the filter just fine but the filter cartridge was not working at all and no filtered water was flowing out. Yes, the covering for the spout was taken off first. This is the second time it happened. I had tested it out on a day hike a few months prior and the same problem happened. I had sent it back to MSR to get it fixed. It was sent back to me without any note or explanation of what went wrong / what was fixed, which led me to think that nothing was done to it whatsoever. So I am weary of the warranty. So of the two trips I used it on, it failed me both times. And for reference, I've only used this water filter twice (not a wear and tear / volume issue).

I purchased this filter back in 2011 or 2012. I was introduced to them in Boy Scouts (as a leader) and purchased one for my own and family backpacking treks. I still use the original filter and cartridge although considering replacing the ceramic cartridge. I'm sure I have surpassed the 2000 liter mark by now. I have never had a problem with my filter. I drain and clean it after every trek. During treks if I filter murky water, I do clean it the best that I can in the backcountry and dry it out. I recommend this model to my clients. I have had issues with other brand filters clogging and being tricky to use, especially in low flowing water sources, but not with this filter. It's great for small group filtering.

I have had and used this filter extensively while backpacking over the last 25 years (yes, I still use the original one). It has provided a family of four with enough clean water for drinking and cooking, during weeks at a time. It is slower when the water is murky, but it still works, and when too pluggeg, it can be cleaned on site. I gave my brother one when he started backpacking and it was very hard to pump, so he followed the instructions to take it apart and back together, and it worked perfectly after, so try that if needed ;-) Just carefully follow the cleaning and maintenance instructions, and you’ll pass this down to your grandchildren!

Just received my MSR filter for my expedition next week, looks great and durable. I only have a question about the filtration speed; the description tells 1 liter per minute. When I tested the filter after the first cleaning I only got 200-300ml per minute, maintaining the pumping frequence of 60-70 strokes a minute. Am I doing something wrong, or is this normal when using the filter for the first time?

I purchased my miniworks back in 1998 or 1999. Used it with no issues while working for a summer camp for a couple of years. Life took over and have been vehicle camping for years where I could take fresh water along. Fast forward to June 2024. Did a short notice 3 day hike and pulled the filter out of storage. Gave it a test the night before leaving and was having issues....but, I followed the field maintenance tips and BOOM, worked like a dream. Had no issues during the trip and was very happy with the performance! Will keep this filter as long as possible!! Thanks MSR.

Bought to replace old Katadyn. Never able to use even once. Took from box and hit the trail. Went to use and missing hinge pin. Can’t even find anyplace online to reorder. Disappointed