Fish Eye Returns Maintenance

[Rangerman]

Does anyone know of a technique to smooth up older fish eye returns so they swivel smoothly again?
Paid $8 for one today at the pool store - Hayward.

Thanks !!
Chris

 

[survey77777]

I was going to wait until tomorrow to ask pretty much the same question. After reading all the opinions on return positioning on another thread I tried to move mine only to find that one of them won't budge.
Good question.
N

 

[duraleigh]

Ranger & Survey,

Yeah, that's an issue I struggle with, too. Be sure you loosen the threaded retainer ring prior to adjusting the eyeball....it's the only way I've found to make any adjustments.

If it helps to wax the eyeball or something, I'd sure like to know....I frequently adjust mine and it's a minor pain.

 

[NWMNMom]

what about a thin layer of that silicone lube we use on the pump lid?

 

[mbar]

I have loosened mine up by soaking it in vinegar. I did put a little wax on it then, and it works fine.

 

[Rangerman]

I have loosened mine up by soaking it in vinegar. I did put a little wax on it then, and it works fine.

Interesting ... I'll give it a try. Thanks :-D

 

[tagprod]

are you talking about these things?

 

[mbar]

Yep :-D

 

[pooladdict]

If you wiped them with Acetone, it will disolve a small amount, thereby reducing the friction

 

[Titanium]

What do you use to loosen/remove the eyeball retaining ring? I have been using large water pump pliers, but this leaves quite a few gouges in the plastic retaining ring,

Is there a special wrench with the required jaw opening of 2-3/8 inches? Or do you use a strap wrench? Or just fabricate a wrench out of 3/8" plywood?

Titanium

 

[mbar]

I can just turn them with my fingers and get them free. Once out, if the eyeball is stuck, I soak the whole thing in vinegar till it moves freely.

 

[JasonLion]

I use a strap wrench if they won't turn by hand. I have never had any damage to the plastic that way.

 

[MikeInTN]

I've found that putting a latex glove on before trying to turn the ring helps me get a better grip. I've never had to use any kind of wrench on them.