Lowering water to find leak around steps in shallow end

[U72275]

I have developed a leak and I am thinking it is in the shallow end around the steps. I have lowered the water below all of the outlets and the leak continues leaking about an 1 1/2" a day. I have a sump pump at the shallow end of the pool that is keeping up with the leak. I have allowed the water to get about 2 inches below the return eyes which leave about two feet of water in the shallow end. I have used water coloring and checked all of the screws around the steps that hold up the liner and tightened a couple but that did not affect the leak.

I would like to lower the water below the steps so I can take the strips from around the steps but I am concerned about the liner falling if I allow the water to get to low. Does anyone know if lowering the water to the floor level in the shallow end can cause the liner to fall?

Thanks,

Doug

 

[Texas Splash]

Hello Doug, and welcome to TFP! Most discussions for vinyl pools state not to lower the water any more than 1 foot from the bottom to prevent damage or issues with the liner. Anything lower than a foot and things can get risky. Maybe some other vinyl owners can chime-in with guidance to assist. Happy to have you on the forum.