Ok replacing pump. Now I need some advice, my shallow well has a foot valve that looks really nasty so when replacing should I just get another foot valve or replace with a check valve.

We always replace old check / foot valve with new pump installation, especially when they don't pass visual inspection. I recommend you do the same.

Generally speaking, check / foot valve are basically the same valves, just their location changes. They both serve the same purpose.

Hope that helps. Back to you. Milo

Milo thanks so much, that is what I thought. Put a new foot valve on and yeah water again. But would you have any idea why my water is all red and looks like little pieces of rust in it so bad I had to take all filter screens off all sinks because they just keep glogging up, also how long should that last?

That is common any time you pull a well pipe. You merely stirred up the well. Run water at an outside spigot for a few hours, or until the water clears up. It also sounds like you may want to install a hole house filter to keep your fixtures protected from the rust in your water.

MDG77 answered your question. Yes, it is always advisable to let water run for some time after the installation before you allow water to enter your house. As far as how long they last - it is just like with anything else. It depends how much minerals is in your water and if it is spring loaded valve or the flopper type. We prefer to use the flopper type, cast iron body, Zoeller check valves. They are well-built units and over the years, we've had the least problems with them. Back to you. Milo

If I have a faulty valve I'd much rather replace a surface check valve then pull the well point to change out a foot valve. Just a thought, Tom