Suction side diverter valve introduces air into the system when in a certain position.

[calisoldier]

I was trying to tweak the suction side valve today and noticed when I put in the upper position to increase the speed of the pool vacuum that the pump has a large air pocket. When I put it in lower position for skimming, all the air gets purged and seems normal. I wanted to increate the vacuum suction a bit because it's not at the recommended rpm, but I can't because the air issue.

In the attached picture, the handle in blue position introduces air and in the current position it doesn't.

Any thoughts on what I should do?

 

[1poolman1]

I was trying to tweak the suction side valve today and noticed when I put in the upper position to increase the speed of the pool vacuum that the pump has a large air pocket. When I put it in lower position for skimming, all the air gets purged and seems normal. I wanted to increate the vacuum suction a bit because it's not at the recommended rpm, but I can't because the air issue.

In the attached picture, the handle in blue position introduces air and in the current position it doesn't.

Any thoughts on what I should do?

Old valve likely needs stem and lid O rings. Increasing the flow from the pool vacuum also increase the suction load on the pump. Any small air leak becomes larger as the pump is pulling harder trying to lift water from the bottom of the pool rather than the skimmer.

 

[calisoldier]

Old valve likely needs stem and lid O rings. Increasing the flow from the pool vacuum also increase the suction load on the pump. Any small air leak becomes larger as the pump is pulling harder trying to lift water from the bottom of the pool rather than the skimmer.

Thanks. Can I just unscrew the diverter valve while equipment is off and pull out the orings?

Are these the replacement parts? https://www.amazon.com/Replacement-NEV005-Diverter-3-Port-rings/dp/B00BW51MYU

 

[1poolman1]

Thanks. Can I just unscrew the diverter valve while equipment is off and pull out the orings?

Are these the replacement parts? https://www.amazon.com/Replacement-NEV005-Diverter-3-Port-rings/dp/B00BW51MYU

Yes. On older valves, after I remove the stem O rings, I lube the diverter shaft, install the rings, add a bit of lube to them and one or two wraps of Teflon tape over them. A bit more lube, lube of the lid for its O ring and install. Be sure to NOT use a power screwdriver to install the screws, too easy to split an older valve body. Tighten the screws in a "star" pattern, not one after the other. If the lid does not seat right away, don't force it with a screw, it will break. Don't try to do it all at once. It could take two or three tightenings to get it tight but that is better than breaking a valve body.