Abstract: A machine for filtering slurry includes a frame with two drums mounted to said frame for rotation and spaced apart from one another. An endless, perforated drainage belt is disposed around the two drums to define a substantially horizontal drainage surface on the top of the drainage belt. A vacuum pan is located below the drainage surface to apply vacuum to material on the drainage surface, and a raising and lowering system is coupled to the vacuum pan to selectively support the vacuum pan in sealing engagement with the drainage belt and to selectively lower the vacuum pan away from the drainage belt.