Can't get return plug out

[Eddy24]

I've broken two of those tools trying to unscrew the return plug so that I can replace it with the winter plug. Any suggestion of either how to get it out or if I can't on what alternatives there are. Thinking of plugging it with a sponge and duct tape.

View attachment 43332

View attachment 43332

not sure how to get rid of the duplicate photo. Posting on my phone.

 

[Eddy24]

Never mind. I just went and got a whole new replacement unit. Hopefully there will be no issues with that.

 

[Pool Tool]

Stupid question, but are you turning the correct way? Looking at the damage (tear) on the tool, it almost looks like you are using it to turn it clockwise. Not trying to offend just something I might do.

They should be turned counter-clockwise to come out. Mine were stuck this too, but fortunately didn't take a lot of effort to get out.

 

[Catanzaro]

Eddy:

I would wrap a small thin towel and use pliers (grip firm, but not too tight) and then turn clockwise. I used these originally to close, but they leaked. Put them on so tight, this was the only way to remove them (by hand they were not budging), then went back to the rubber plugs. Thanks!

 

[JamesW]

It does look like you were turning the tool the wrong way. Try a metal piece in the grooves and turn counterclockwise.

 

[PAGirl]

I guess if you were outside of the pool, from up above, it would go opposite than if you were in the water, facing the plug. Makes sense that it would be easy to turn it backward.

 

[Crackerjack4u]

I've done it myself a couple of times when trying to unscrew something while looking down over it, instead of being in front of it. LOL it seems like Righty Tighty, and Lefty Lucy, tends to get somewhat Bassy ackwards from that angle.

 

[Eddy24]

I tried both ways. I busted the tool out of frustration I think after finally trying to see if I was going the wrong way the first time (I started counterclockwise). It's all good now, I replaced the whole piece from the front and back. Thanks all

 

[banditig]

I have had to replace entire unit also. Now I coat the threads of the eyeball piece with majic lube (the ouside fitting has teflon tape), makes removal easier at end of season.