could someone idntify the black plastic part, i have no idea what it is and have not seen one before on a spa, it just fits over the pump housing and has water running through it. has 2 inlets in front bottom and 1 outlet on top, i do not have pump installed but the inlet and outlet for it are visible, thx for any help.

It's a jacket that goes around motor that water flows through, capturing some of the heat generated by the pump motor.

I came online to find out the very thing you asked....about the black plastic component around the pump. My spa was given to me recently and I'm told it's about 10 years old. The faceplate has been torn off and I have no way of determining the manufacturer. I looked at the two pics you posted and it looks IDENTICAL to mine. Can you tell me who manufactured your hot tub?

Part of my problem is a serious leak around the motor/impeller. I thought I was going to have to cut the lines feeding this "whatever the name is" that captures the motors heat. It looks like I'm not going to have to do that now. Thanks a bunch for the pics. I may still have to have a new motor.

Your spa brand type may still help me if you can let me know please sir. Thanks a bunch in advance.